Autumn is prime time for barbel fishing. As river levels rise, leaves begin to fall and temperatures start to cool, barbel will feed hard in preparation for winter. It’s the season when big fish let their guard down, and if you pick the right stretch, you stand every chance of banking a specimen. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best barbel fishing venues to catch a barbel this autumn.
River Rother, Catcliffe, South Yorkshire
The Rother is in great form this season, producing fish well into double figures. Ashfield AC controls a day-ticket stretch at Catcliffe, with tickets online.
Contact: www.ashfieldangling.com
IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE WE LIST THE BEST BARBEL FISHING RODS.
River Ribble, Preston, Lancashire
On the free stretch of the Ribble off London Road you’ll find specimen barbel, and good catches are possible. Be prepared to move to find the fish.
Contact: Wayne’s Tackle, 01772 729229
River Nidd, Skip Bridge, North Yorkshire
This York and District AA stretch is home to a good head of fish between 2lb and 5lb. Day tickets online and from local outlets.
Contact: York Tackle, 01904 411210
River Trent, Fiskerton, Nottinghamshire
On the Barnsley & District AS stretch you’ll find good numbers of barbel, some big ones too. Day tickets available from Mace’s shop in Fiskerton.
Contact: 07763 385205
IN THIS EXPERT GUIDE LEARN HOW TO FISH THE RIVER TRENT.
Warks Avon, Harvington, Warwickshire
The stretch at Manor Farm Leisure has produced huge fish in recent years. Luncheon meat is a great hookbait.
Contact: 01386 870039
River Wye, Wyastone Leys, Herefordshire
The Angling Dreams stretch of the Wye at Wyastone Leys is stunning, and can respond well to float tactics. Book your fishing prior to arrival.
Contact: www.anglingdreams.co.uk
River Severn, Highley, Shropshire
Good numbers of barbel running into double figures can be found here. Day tickets on the bank.
Contact: Middle Severn Angling, 01746 769070
THE BEST BARBEL REELS TYPICALLY HAVE FREESPOOL OR BAITRUNNER OPTIONS.
River Wandle, South London
Float and rolling meat tactics both work well in the gin-clear and free-to-fish little River Wandle. Stay on the move and target deep pools and overhanging trees.
Contact: Cheam Angling, 020 8330 4787
Bristol Avon, Lacock, Wiltshire
On this rejuvenated and idyllic Amalgamated Anglers stretch, roving tactics are the best way to locate the fish. Day tickets can be purchased in advance from local outlets.
Contact: 0117 9603378
River Lea, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire
Arguably the best barbel fishery in the land, Kings Weir holds colossal barbel! The weir pool itself can be fished on a day ticket. Book in advance.
Contact: 01992 568394
THE BEST SPECIMEN RODS ARE A GREAT CHOICE FOR FISHING THE RIVER.
