Introducing the common barb
Found throughout most of France, the common barbel (Barbus barbus) is easily recognized by its mouth, thick, fleshy lips and two pairs of moustache-like barbels that give it its name. Its cylindrical body gives it a slender shape. It has a long head and a dorsal fin that is jagged at the back. It has a greenish-gray or bluish back, lighter sides and a yellowish-white belly. An omnivorous fish, it feeds on worms, mollusks, aquatic larvae and even algae or fish eggs. It is also capable of hunting small fry.
The breeding season takes place between May and July, depending on temperatures. The female lays only 5,000 to 10,000 eggs, which will then stick to stones on the bottom or aquatic plants. As an adult, the common barbel can reach 80 cm in length and weigh over 5 kg.
Where can you find the common barb?
Common barb moves along the bottom in search of food, even moving stones to find it. They are most often found in fast-flowing rivers. It can also be found on calmer rivers, always in search of cold, oxygenated water, staying close to bridges or other weirs. It prefers to hover on stony bottoms in search of a hiding place. Sometimes it will jump out of the water, which is the ideal time to detect its presence.
How to catch the common barbel?
The common barbel is a very powerful fish that offers great sensations at the end of the line. It can be fished using a variety of techniques, preferably close to the bottom. With a jig, match or feeder, baiting beforehand will bring the fish in and keep it there. Common barbel can also be fished with small soft lures or crankbaits. Fly-fishing for barbel is another adrenalin-filled sport.
Whatever the technique used, discretion in editing is paramount, and your equipment will need to be adapted to handle impressive rushes.
