Tench

Tench is an olive-green freshwater species with tiny scales and a thick, mucus-covered body. Reaches weights of 7 kg.

Feeds on worms, mollusks, larvae, and crustaceans. Roots through bottom silt when foraging. Betrays its presence through chains of bubbles on the surface.

Most active at 18–26 °C. Typically a dawn feeder — best bites come at first light. Warmth-loving — only feeds actively once water has warmed consistently. Enters dormancy in winter, burying into mud.

Holds in dense weed beds, silty bays, and ponds. Avoids open areas and strong current. Very sedentary — stays in a small territory.

Caught on red worm, maggots, sweetcorn, and vanilla-flavored dough. Float fishing is the main method. Bait should rest on or just above the bottom.

For trophy tench (3+ kg), pre-bait a spot near weed beds for several days. Fish from 4–7 AM. Chains of tiny bubbles signal that tench has arrived. Strike after a confident pull.