Roving for Barbel: A New River Season Begins

As the river fishing season begins, anticipation fills the air. The banks are lined with fresh green foliage, and the water flows with renewed vigor, promising exciting catches for the angler willing to put in the effort. For many, the start of the new river season is a time to dust off the rods and tackle, and head out to the river to go roving for barbel.

Keep Moving Around the River

One of the most effective techniques for barbel fishing is roving. This means not staying in one spot for too long, but moving around the river to find where the fish are biting. Barbel are known to roam the river, searching for food, so staying mobile increases your chances of encountering them. Instead of setting up camp in one location, pack light and be prepared to explore different stretches of the river.

Trying Trotting a Small Float with Pellets

A great method to try is trotting a small Korum Blob float with pellets. This involves letting your baited hook drift naturally with the current, mimicking the way food moves in the water. Barbel are bottom feeders, so this technique allows your bait to move enticingly in front of them. Use a small, sensitive float to detect the slightest nibble, and bait your hook with pellets, which are a favourite of barbel.

Regularly Loose Feed Pellets into the Water

To keep barbel interested and in the area, it’s crucial to regularly loose feed pellets into the water. This creates a trail of food that leads the fish to your hook. A little and often approach works best: throw in a few pellets every few minutes to maintain their interest without overfeeding them. This steady stream of food can draw barbel in from a distance and keep them foraging in your vicinity.

Travel Light

Roving requires mobility, so travel light. Carry only the essentials to avoid being weighed down by unnecessary gear. This makes it easier to move quickly and efficiently from one spot to another. A light rod, a small selection of floats and pellets, and minimal accessories are all you need for a successful day of barbel fishing.

The Korum Roving Vest

To make traveling light even easier, I like to use the Korum Glide Roving Vest. This handy piece of kit contains all the tackle I need without the bulk of a traditional fishing bag. With its numerous pockets and compartments, I can organize my gear and have everything within easy reach. It’s comfortable to wear and perfect for a day spent moving along the riverbank.

Chub: A Welcome Bonus

While barbel are the main target, the opening weeks of the river season also provide excellent opportunities to catch chub. These fish offer good sport and can often be found in similar locations to barbel. They’re strong fighters and can add excitement to your fishing trips. Keep an eye out for their distinctive bites and be ready to switch tactics if you notice them around.

The Prize: Lovely Barbel

Despite the allure of chub, the real prize remains the lovely barbel. Their powerful runs and determined fights make them a thrilling catch. Each barbel you hook is a testament to your skill and persistence. They’re a true challenge and a joy to catch, embodying the essence of river fishing.

Good Luck with Your River Fishing

As you embark on your river fishing adventures this season, remember to keep moving, stay light, and be patient. Whether you’re trotting a float with pellets, roving for barbel or exploring new stretches of the river, the key is to enjoy the experience and embrace the challenge. Good luck with your river fishing in the new season – may your efforts be rewarded with many memorable catches, especially those prized barbel!

Watch the Video

A Roving for Barbel video is available on my channel, should you wish to watch it!

Related reading: First Barbel of the New River Season, Last River Session of the Season, Barbel fishing on the River Lea