The Wels catfish isn’t just the largest freshwater fish in Europe—it’s also one of the most thrilling species you can target in the UK. Imagine battling a fish that can weigh over 100 pounds and stretch over 2 meters in length. For those lucky enough to hook one, it’s a fight they won’t soon forget. According to the UK record books, the largest Wels catfish ever caught here weighed an impressive 144 lbs! Now, that’s a fish tale worth sharing.
Despite its growing popularity among anglers, the Wels remains elusive, demanding the right tactics, gear, and patience. Whether you're new to catfishing or seasoned with years of experience, this blog offers actionable tips to help you land that monster Wels. From understanding their feeding habits to choosing the right hooks, we’ve got you covered.
Wels Catfish Appearance
The Wels catfish is a predator built for power. It has an elongated, almost snake-like body and a wide mouth packed with rows of small, sharp teeth. Its body is often a mix of green, brown, and dark mottling, which provides excellent camouflage in murky waters. One of its standout features? The long barbels (whiskers) around its mouth, which help it detect prey in the dark depths of UK lakes and rivers. These "whiskers" are incredibly sensitive, acting as radar for the fish, picking up vibrations in the water.
Image by Homersfield Lake
Habitat and Distribution
Wels catfish thrive in deep, slow-moving waters. In the UK, their natural habitat includes stocked lakes, reservoirs, and slow-flowing rivers. While Wels were originally native to Eastern Europe, they’ve been intentionally introduced into several UK waters, creating opportunities for British anglers to try their luck with this powerful species.
Popular Wels catfish venues include:
- Claydon Lakes (Oxfordshire) – A renowned spot for anglers targeting trophy-sized catfish.
- Willow Park Fishery (Surrey) – Ideal for those looking for good-sized Wels in tranquil surroundings.
- Oakwood Park Lakes (Cheshire) – Known for producing large Wels, perfect for serious catfish anglers.
These venues are great starting points, but Wels can be found across the country in many well-stocked fisheries.
Wels Catfish Behaviour and Feeding Patterns
Wels catfish are nocturnal predators, meaning they’re most active during the evening and night-time. They prefer to hunt in the low-light conditions when they can ambush unsuspecting prey. What makes them unique is their opportunistic feeding habits—they’ll eat almost anything, from smaller fish to frogs, crustaceans, and even birds!
Their feeding strategy relies on their barbels to detect the slightest movement. This means that when fishing for Wels, your bait needs to stand out. Large, oily baits work wonders. Live or dead baits like roach, carp, or even squid are known to attract larger specimens. The strong scent from oily fish baits helps draw Wels catfish from their hiding spots.
Image taken from Wikapedia
Tips for Catching Wels Catfish
- Bait Selection: For the best results, use strong-smelling baits like oily fish (mackerel, sardines) or large live baits such as roach or perch. Blood baits and fish chunks with fish oil are also excellent options. If you’re after a trophy-sized fish, be prepared to scale up your bait size accordingly.
- Tackle: Wels catfish are powerful, and your gear should match their strength. Opt for heavy-duty rods, capable of handling the size and weight of these fish. Pair this with a sturdy reel and use braided lines with a breaking strain of at least 30 lbs.
- Hooks: Using the right hook is crucial when targeting a predator like the Wels catfish. Wide-gape hooks made from strong, durable materials are essential to avoid breakages during those intense battles. A variety of high-quality hooks are available, designed to handle large fish, and it’s worth investing in these to maximize your chances of success. Choosing the right hook can make all the difference between landing the fish and losing it in the fight.
- Techniques: Patience is key when targeting Wels catfish. Since they’re more active at night, consider setting up for a night fishing session. Position your bait near deep holes or underwater structures where Wels are likely to be hiding. It’s not unusual to spend hours waiting, but the reward is well worth it when that bite finally comes.
Wels Catfish Eating and Legal Considerations
While Wels catfish are edible, they’re primarily targeted for sport fishing in the UK, and most fisheries enforce strict catch-and-release policies to protect stocks. Always check the regulations of the venue you’re fishing in. Some fisheries may allow you to take a small catfish, but the majority encourage sustainable fishing practices.
The Wels catfish is a non-native species, and it's essential to follow local rules to ensure they don’t negatively impact local ecosystems. As always, leave the environment as you found it, and treat the fish with care, especially if you plan to release it.
Fun Fact
The Wels catfish has an incredible ability to live for over 30 years in the right conditions. That means the trophy-sized fish you catch today could have been swimming in the same lake since the 1990s! This longevity adds to their mystique and the challenge of catching one.
Fishing for Wels catfish in the UK isn’t for the faint-hearted, but the experience is unforgettable. From selecting the right bait to choosing strong, durable hooks, preparation is everything. With patience, the right gear, and knowledge of where to fish, you could be one step closer to landing one of the UK’s largest freshwater fish. Ready to take on the challenge?
Whether you’re a seasoned catfish hunter or a newcomer, ensure you’re well-equipped for the battle!