Best Times
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to catch roach, as they become more active after the winter period when they are looking for food to regain energy.
Autumn is another excellent time for roach fishing as they are feeding up in preparation for the winter months.
Common Baits
Maggots: Maggots are one of the most popular baits for roach fishing as they can be used all year round and their wriggling movement in the water is irresistible to roach.
Worms: Worms, either chopped or whole, can be excellent bait for roach. Small worms are often more effective, especially in winter or when roach are feeding lightly.
Sweetcorn: Sweetcorn is a popular bait for roach as the bright yellow colour attracts them.
Bread: Bread is an effective bait for roach as the scent of it in the water attracts roach. Bread can be especially effective for surface fishing or when roach are feeding near the surface.
Fishing Techniques
Float Fishing: Float fishing is one of the most popular methods for targeting roach. The float allows anglers to present their bait at the right depth and watch for bites.
Ledgering: Ledgering is a bottom-fishing technique where the bait is cast and allowed to rest on or near the bottom of the water. This is an excellent for targeting roach who are feeding on the bottom.
Feeder Fishing: Feeder fishing is commonly used when targeting roach in larger bodies of water where anglers want to present groundbait to attract the fish. The feeder is a container that holds bait and releases it slowly to draw in roach.
Pole Fishing: Pole fishing is a highly effective and popular method for catching roach. It involves using a long pole (usually around 10-16 metres) to fish with precision and control.
Tackle and Equipment
Rod and Reels: A light to medium float rod, between 10 to 12 feet, is ideal for roach fishing as it provides better control and distance when casting.
Hooks: Roach typically require small hooks. A size 14 to 18 hook is commonly used for hookbait like maggots and worms. For larger roach or when using larger baits like sweetcorn or bread, size 10 to 12 hooks are more appropriate.
Floats: Float size will depend on the conditions but 4-6g is a common range for general roach fishing, with lighter floats for calmer water.
Night Fishing
Night fishing for roach can be a very rewarding experience, especially during the warmer months when roach are more active during the evening and night. Roach are generally not as nocturnal as some species, but they do tend to feed more actively after dusk. Anglers should ensure they are equipped with warm clothing and a reliable light source.