Wels Catfish

About this species

Europe's giant catfish, one of the largest freshwater fish on the continent, reaching well over 2 m. It hunts fish, waterfowl and crayfish in deep, slow rivers and reservoirs. Large livebaits, big lures and rod-and-line from the bank at night account for monsters.

Season

Depth

3 – 30 m

Habitat Spots

Fishing Methods

Bait & Rig

Large livebaits such as carp or bream, big squid sections, and rubber waller lures thumped along the bottom at night.

Edibility & Taste

Rich, fatty flesh with few bones; popular in Central and Eastern European cuisine smoked, fried, or in stews.

Similar Species

Enormous body, six barbels, and an anal fin running nearly half the body length distinguish wels from all other European freshwater catfish.

Record Weight

130 kg