The River Wye
The River Wye is the fourth-longest river in the UK, stretching some 250 kilometres from its source on Plynlimon in mid Wales to the Severn Estuary. For much of its length the river forms part of the border between England and Wales.
Herefordshire is famous for its historic landmarks and traditional goods, however one of these stand out more than the rest… that being The River Wye. Some would argue that the Wye (so we speak) is famous for its rowing and other sun fun activities… but for us anglers its not about that, its about something far more intriguing!
The Wye’s claim to fame dates back to the early 1800’s when Salmon (Salmo Salar) first started to be hunted using a rod and reel. Centuries down the line, salmon have been a very sought after fish, with the River Wye holding some of the very best Salmon beats in the country!
The Wye has always held a unique selection of fish to go at, however in later years the Angling Times done something that would change the Wye forever…
In 1956 the Angling Times introduced 509 Barbel (Barbus) to the River Severn, and at the same time a few barbel were also introduced to the River Wye, as well as numerous other rivers in the UK.
These whiskered bars of gold were later to be caught in exceeding quantities… with them slowly becoming a prime focus for a days fishing on the Wye…
Fast forward to the 2000’s Barbel have become, if not the most sought after freshwater specie there is! especially down in Herefordshire.
With our tackleshop being a short 5min walk from the Wye, we have a great understanding of how and where to approach a days fishing with us!
No matter what the species, we will be able to put you on them!
A common tactic fished on our gorgeous Wye is a simple black cap feeder, free running to a buffer bead and size 8 swivel, then the hook length desired for the condition of river.
The common and probably the most effective bait used to fish for our barbel and chub are Dynamite Baits 4mm Marine Halibut Pellet and Frenzied Hemp…
Another great tactic used is free lining! this has become more and more popular over the years and has managed to put barbel to over 13lb and chub to nearly 8lb.
