European Eel

About this species

A snake-like, catadromous fish that migrates thousands of kilometres to spawn in the Sargasso Sea, now critically endangered. It feeds nocturnally on the bottom of rivers, lakes and estuaries. Where fishing is permitted, worms and small fish baits on the bottom at night are used.

Season

Depth

0 – 50 m

Habitat Spots

Fishing Methods

Bait & Rig

Where fishing is permitted, small sections of worm, fish strip, or dead smelt presented on a bottom rig after dark in rivers, lakes, and estuaries.

Edibility & Taste

Classically prized smoked or as jellied eel in British cuisine; now critically endangered and consumption should be avoided to support population recovery.

Similar Species

Distinguished from the marine conger eel by its tiny scales embedded in the skin (appearing scaleless), shorter lower jaw, and freshwater residency during the yellow-eel phase.

Record Weight

6.6 kg