Big Catfish: Why They Should Stay in the River
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Wels catfish
Silurus glanis (Linnaeus)
Som
Description
Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) is the largest European freshwater fish. It can grow over 3 meters in length and weigh more than 100 kilograms. It has an elongated scaleless body and a large head.
Habitat
Prefers calm, deep water and slow river currents. Stays in sheltered places with cover and buries itself in mud in winter.
Diet
The young feed on plankton, and the adults are predators that eat fish, crabs, shells and snails, and sometimes frogs, rodents and waterfowl.
Regulations and Responsible Fishing
The closed season is listed as 16.04. - 15.06.. During that period, release the fish immediately and carefully.
The minimum size is 60 cm. Fish below this size should be released immediately.
Always check local association or concession holder rules before fishing, because they may be stricter than this general overview.
🎣 Recommended Bait
- Live fish where permitted
- Dead fish where permitted
- Large worms
- Fish pieces
- Crustaceans
- Snails
📅 Best Seasons
Late spring after the closed season, Summer, Early autumn
🕐 Best Time of Day
Night, Dusk, Dawn, Overcast days
📍 Where to Fish
Deep holes, submerged trees, bridges and dam areas with shelter, mud and slow currents. May enter shallows to feed at night, and occur near tributary mouths.
How to catch: Wels catfish
Use tackle suitable for very large fish. Catfish hunt at night using smell, hearing and the lateral line. The Croatian guide describes traditional clonk fishing; check local method and bait restrictions first.