Roach

Roach is one of the most widespread freshwater fish and a core target in competitive angling. Silver body with red fins. Reaches weights of 2 kg.

Omnivorous: worms, larvae, mollusks, algae, and filamentous plants. Diet shifts seasonally — more animal food in winter, adding plant matter in summer.

Most active at 10–22 °C. Feeds year-round, including through ice. Spring surge occurs after spawning. Summer feeding peaks at dawn and dusk. Responds well to stable pressure.

Holds in shoals at varying depths depending on season. Summer — near weed beds; autumn — deeper water; winter — holes with slow current.

Caught on bloodworm, maggots, pearl barley, bread, paste, and sweetcorn. Float, feeder, and winter jig. Accurate feeding is crucial — roach quickly gathers at a baited spot.

Trophy roach (500+ g) hold apart from juvenile shoals. Fish near drop-offs at 2–4 m depth. Use large maggots or pearl barley to filter out small fish. Fine tackle is mandatory.