Barbel
Barbus barbus
A relative of the carp, barbel are a riverine species and are not native to Wales. However they have been introduced over the years to several waters in order to provide excellent coarse fishing.
Barbel can be found in several Welsh rivers including the Wye, Taff, Severn, Dee and Rhymney.
Barbel are extremely strong fighters and have been compared to salmon – without the jumping. The Welsh record exceeds 18lb, from the river Taff.
Barbel are bottom feeders and the usual methods include ledgering or feeder fishing with fish flavoured pellets or boilies.
Barbel can also be found in a several commercial stillwater fisheries in Wales, where they are stocked.
For information on where to go barbel fishing in Wales, read our barbel fishing blog feature by Adam Fisher.
World Fish Migration Day: Celebrating and Safeguarding Wales' Iconic Migratory Fish
Every two years, World Fish Migration Day (WFMD) shines a spotlight on the incredible journeys undertaken by migratory fish species…
Read More
Fly Fishing The River Severn - Caersws Angling Association VIDEO
We join Hywel Morgan on the beautiful upper river Severn, at the the village of Caersws, in search of mid…
Read More
Non-Native Invasive Species (INNS) Week 2025: What Welsh Anglers Need to Know
As we mark Non-Native Invasive Species Week, it’s an important time for us as anglers to reflect on how we…
Read More
