Anglers everywhere in the UK will be buzzing with anticipation at the prospect of the rivers re-opening, their minds filled with dreams of a new personal best chub or barbel.
Such achievements are always possible, but it’s important to remember the conditions you’re likely to face. Rising temperatures have led to most waterways running a little low, clear and weedy, and that can make things tricky. The fish become cagier and enjoying solid action from start to finish in one swim is unlikely.
As such, roving is arguably the best tactic, trying several spots over the session, and catching a fish or two from each before moving on.
GET ON THE RIVER AT THE START OF THE SEASON WITH THIS WHERE TO FISH GUIDE.
Carry two set-ups
A swim’s topography will dictate whether the float or straight lead/feeder will perform better, and it’s worth carrying a rod for each tactic. Float fishing is best for chub, and you’ll locate them quickly by trotting a piece of breadflake. For barbel, a straight lead approach will work well, with a small PVA bag of freebies alongside the hookbait.
THE BEST SPECIMEN FISHING RODS ARE PERFECT FOR ROVING THE RIVER.
Keep the rod low
In all but the most powerful flows, try to keep the rod low. The fish are likely to be a little bit on edge in the clear water, and if they brush up against your line, they’re likely to spook. Keeping the rod low not only makes it harder for the fish to see it, but it also makes the angle between rig and rod-tip less steep, reducing the chance of line bites.
THE BEST CHUB FISHING RODS WILL TAME CHUB IN THE SHALLOWEST OF WATER.
Hold off loosefeeding
Drop your baited rig in and wait a few minutes. If a hungry fish is nearby and you haven’t spooked it, it’ll waste very little time in taking it. If you don’t get any indications for five or 10 minutes, feed the spot lightly and come back later. The noise of the freebies going in can send fish into the weed, and it can take a little time for them to return.
THE BEST BARBEL FISHING REELS ARE PERFECTLY SUITED TO ROVING THE RIVER.
Gear up appropriately
As a general rule, the lighter you can fish, the more bites you’ll get, but your kit must be strong enough to deal safely with your quarry. Use a hooklength with a minimum breaking strain of 4lb for chub and 8lb for barbel. A size 6 or 8 hook will complement a big bait perfectly, and for barbel, make sure to use a strong hook with a thicker wire.
THE BEST BARBEL FISHING RODS ARE POWERFUL ENOUGH TO DEAL WITH ANY RIVER CONDITIONS.
