Floatfishing for barbel is almost a forgotten art in this age of the swimfeeder but, on the right peg, running a float through can be devastating, especially when rivers are running low and clear.
Look for a swim where the main flow and the deepest water is close to the bank, because this makes trotting the float straight down the swim much easier and allows the rig to be eased downstream at anything up to a quarter of the pace of the surface flow. This is important, because the current near the riverbed, where the barbel are to be found, is always slower than at the surface.
FIND THE BEST VENUES FOR BARBEL FISHING BY CHECKING OUT OUR WHERE TO FISH GUIDES.
The tackle you need to float fish for barbel
✔ 3g-8g stick, Avon or loafer float
✔ Bulk AAA/BB shot, or an olivette
✔ 8b mainline
✔ 6lb hooklink
✔ Size 12-16 hooks
Top tips on float fishing for barbel
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Use a big stick, Avon or Loafer float with a loading of anything between 3g and 8g, depending on the conditions.
2. Place the bulk shot or olivette at three-quarters depth to get the hookbait down quickly.
3. If conditions allow, feed the swim with a bait dropper to ensure accuracy.
4. Maggots work well, but if small fish are a problem, switch to banded pellets or small cubes of meat.
5. Remember to keep topping up the feed, especially if bites are coming. If feeding by hand, feed every cast before or just after the float goes in to keep a steady stream of bait going through the swim.
6. Don't be afraid to hold the float back in spots where you think a bite is likely, this was cause the bait to lift off the bottom and bounce it across the swim.
7. Be prepared for a proper battle and always use gear that is strong enough to land the fish. You can easily scale down too much for this species.
CHECK OUT OUR BUYER'S GUIDES ON THE BEST RODS AND REELS FOR BARBEL FISHING.
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