Species of UK Fish to Catch with Coarse Fishing Tackle

The term "coarse" fishing refers to the historic but arbitrary classification of certain species of fish to a "lesser" category. Salmon and trout were considered more "noble" and palatable, and thus were called "game" fish. Other species were considered less palatable and hence are referred to as "coarse." In the UK, anglers use specialised coarse fishing tackle when pursuing these fish. Here's some information about coarse fish and the tackle needed to land them.

Coarse Fishing Tackle - Some of the Most Popular Coarse Fishing Species

Barbel: This species is found all over the UK and puts up a great fight. A denizen of fast rivers, barbel thrive in clean waters and are primarily fished in autumn with coarse fishing tackle.

Carp: Another widespread game fish in the UK, carp are found in rivers and lakes all year round. Carp, especially the larger ones, provide an exciting fight when caught on medium or lighter weight carp fishing tackle.

Perch: This fish is found in lakes and slow rivers with plenty of cover. Although small, perch are predators with coloring and stripes that enable them to disappear in weeds, so it can be a challenge to hook them with fishing rods.

Pike: Widely found in the UK, pike are predators that can grow up to a weight of 50 pounds. These fish will strike on lures or bait, but the largest ones are caught with live bait.

Roach: Found in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Roach are small shoal fish that weigh between 2 and 4 pounds. Summer is the best season to fish for roach.

Bream: Found in the UK and Ireland, bream are shoal fish that thrive in lakes and slow rivers.

Fishing Tackle and Techniques for Coarse Fish Species

Anglers seeking coarse fish can use the standard rod and reel, with a rod that ranges in length from 10 to 13 feet. Because some coarse fish are such fighters, choose a strong rod, such as one made from carbon fibre. Some fishermen prefer sectioned fishing poles where the line is fixed to the very tip of the rod. To retrieve the fish, the angler removes sections from the rod until he can reach the line. Coarse fishing techniques include float fishing, legering and spinning. In float fishing, the bait dangles below a float on the surface of the water. When a fish strikes, the float dips under the water, signaling the strike. In legering, the bait is held on the bottom with a sinker or other weight. A strike is signaled when the tip of the rod quivers or flexes. Spinning uses a brightly coloured lure or small fish. The bait is towed through the water to attract predator fish like perch and pike.

For UK fishermen looking for a challenging fight from a truly worthy piscine opponent, the use of coarse fishing tackle will enhance the experience. To get started, why not call us at 01656 722448?

Additional Reading Resources Fishing tackle Carp fishing tackle Coarse fishing tackle Fly fishing tackle Sea fishing tackle