Roach, also known as common roach, are a freshwater fish species that can be found in a wide range of habitats throughout Europe and Asia. These fish are popular among anglers due to their abundance and hard fighting nature. In this article, we will explore the habitat, feeding habits, size and lifespan, record catches, how to identify one, and how to catch one with fishing tackle and bait.
Habitat
Roaches are a very adaptable fish species that can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats. They are most commonly found in slow-moving rivers, streams, canals, and stillwaters such as lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. Roach are often found in large shoals and prefer to swim in the upper layers of the water column.
Feeding Habits
Roaches are omnivorous and feed on a wide range of aquatic insects, crustaceans, molluscs, and plant matter. They are particularly fond of small invertebrates such as bloodworms, caddis larvae, and freshwater shrimps. Roaches are also known to feed on algae and other plant material.
Roach are known to be opportunistic feeders and will take a wide range of baits. Some of the best baits for roach include:
- Maggots – Maggots are one of the most popular baits for roach and are readily available at most bait shops. Roach find maggots irresistible and will often take them on the drop.
- Casters – Casters are the chrysalis stage of the maggot and are an excellent bait for roach. They are particularly effective when fished over a bed of groundbait.
- Bread – Bread is a cheap and readily available bait that can be used to catch roach. It can be fished as a flake, punch or paste.
- Sweetcorn – Sweetcorn is a versatile bait that can be used to catch a wide range of fish, including roach. It is particularly effective when fished on the hook or as part of a groundbait mix.
- Pellets – Pellets are a popular bait for roach and can be used in a variety of forms, including micro pellets, 2mm or 4mm pellets, and groundbait.
- Worms – Worms are a natural bait that can be used to catch roach. They are particularly effective when fished on the bottom.
When choosing a bait for roach, it is important to consider the water conditions and the time of year. In clear water, smaller baits such as maggots and casters tend to work best, while in coloured water, larger baits such as sweetcorn and pellets may be more effective. Additionally, during the colder months, roach tend to be less active and may require a slower, more natural presentation.
Size and Lifespan
Roaches are relatively small fish, typically growing to a maximum length of around 30cm and weighing up to 1kg. They have a lifespan of around 10-12 years, although some individuals may live for up to 15 years.
Record Catches
The current world record for roach is held by a fish caught in the Netherlands in 2007, which weighed in at an impressive 4.39kg. In the UK, the record catch stands at 4lb 4oz, caught from a stillwater in 2006.
Some of the biggest roach ever caught include:
- The world record for roach was caught by Dutch angler, Pim Pos in 2007, weighing in at an impressive 4.39 kg (9 lb 11 oz).
- In the UK, the largest roach on record was caught from a stillwater in 2006, weighing in at 2.018 kg (4 lb 7 oz).
- In Sweden, a giant roach was caught by an angler in 2017, weighing in at 2.7 kg (5 lb 15 oz).
- In Russia, a huge roach was caught by an angler in 2019, weighing in at 2.2 kg (4 lb 14 oz).
It is important to note that these are exceptional catches and that most roach caught by anglers will be much smaller. Nonetheless, roach can provide a fun and rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.
How to identify roach
Roaches are a silvery-grey colour, with dark grey or black scales on their back and a white belly. They have a high-backed, slightly compressed body shape and a small, downward-facing mouth. Roaches have a distinctive black spot at the base of their dorsal fin, which can help to distinguish them from other similar species.
How to catch roach
Roaches can be caught using a variety of fishing tackle and bait, depending on the fishing conditions and the angler’s personal preferences. A popular method for catching roaches is to use a float fishing setup with a small hook, light line, and a small amount of bait such as maggots, bread, or sweetcorn. Roaches are also known to take artificial lures such as small spinners or jigs.
When fishing for roach, it is important to use a light touch and avoid using heavy fishing tackle, as these fish have delicate mouths and can be easily spooked. It is also important to fish in the upper layers of the water column, where roaches are most likely to be feeding.
In conclusion, roaches are a popular and abundant freshwater fish species that can be found in a wide range of habitats throughout Europe and Asia. These fish are prized by anglers for their hard fighting nature and delicious taste, and can be caught using a variety of fishing tackle and bait. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, anglers can increase their chances of catching these elusive fish and enjoying a memorable day on the water.