A SMALL northern river, once believed to be the third most polluted in Europe, has just produced this remarkable 15lb 5oz barbel.
It was landed by S Yorks angler John Drabble from the River Rother, a little-known venue that flows between Rotherham and Sheffield.
In the late 19th Century the Rother’s water quality deteriorated rapidly due to pollution. But fish in the venue are now thriving, as John revealed.
“I’ve caught barbel, chub and other silvers from there,” he said. “But I’ve never seen a barbel like this one. Catching it is a memory I’ll take to the grave!”
John caught the fish using a large chunk of legered meat. It’s believed to be a record for the Rother.
This page is a free example of the amazing content Angling Times Members get every single week. Becoming an Angling Times Member gives you access to award-winning magazine content, member rewards, our back issue archives, bonus content and more! Join our fishing community and find out more today!