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Tricky river stretch yields massive barbel

by Freddie Sandford |

Published on15th January 2026 at 10.06am

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Over recent years, Leicestershire angler Jarrad Smith has spent a lot of time on a challenging stretch of the middle Trent, but his efforts have just been rewarded in spectacular style with this 19lb 8oz barbel.

Faced with what he described as ‘absolutely perfect’ conditions, with mild weather and floodwater pushing through, Jarrad simply knew he had to get out.

Fishing heavy feeder tactics with a large paste-wrapped boilie hookbait, he hooked what he initially thought to be a carp, judging by its impressive speed and power.

However, after an incredible fight, Jarrad looked on in awe as a huge barbel surfaced, which he managed to safely net soon after.

HERE IS A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO CATCH BARBEL ON THE RIVER TRENT.

Jarrad rightly beaming with this superb specimen!

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