Common Bream

Bream is a deep-bodied freshwater species and a primary target in feeder fishing. Has a tall, laterally compressed body with bronze tones. Reaches weights of 9 kg.

Feeds on bloodworm, worms, mollusks, and larvae. Classic bottom feeder — characteristically tilts head-down with tail pointing up while foraging.

Most active at 14–22 °C. Spring feeding surge comes after spawning (May–June). Feeds heavily in autumn before winter. Bites better in stable weather with moderate wind. Activity often increases before thunderstorms.

Holds in shoals over deep areas with muddy or clay bottoms. Patrols drop-offs and depth transitions. Moves onto shallows to feed at night.

Caught on bloodworm, maggots, red worm, sweetcorn, and pearl barley. Feeder fishing is the most effective method. Heavy groundbaiting with live components on the spot is essential.

For trophy bream (4+ kg), groundbait a drop-off point 1–2 hours before fishing. Use a maggot-bloodworm sandwich. Fish at night or dawn. A long hooklink (80–120 cm) increases bite rates.