This poor old barbel had some sort of elastic band stuck around it's head - and it looks like it's been on there a while. Just goes to show what can happen to the crap that's thrown/wash in. I cut it free, hopefully it'll recover quickly - they're tough old fish in this river!
Probably from one of Hamidi's rigs ;o)
ReplyDeleteBut it should recover, there will be a scar but open wounds heal in time.
If it’s survived this long with the band I’m pretty sure it’ll recover - still fought as hard as any barbel of that size. Probably one of the few barbel that’s glad to have met me :-)
DeleteNasty looking damage to it, but as you say them fish get all sorts tossed their way. I hope she heals well and you'll certainly recognise that one again!
ReplyDeleteIt was pretty unlucky to have stuck it’s head though there in the first place - but I’m sure it will heal now. Yeah, definitely recognise that one if we ever see it again - hopefully in a few years when it’s a double!
DeleteI always carry some klinik or similar,but I haven't seen anything like that!
ReplyDeleteI have a fish care kit somewhere, but obviously didn’t have it with me when I needed it - but it’s far better off now. I’m normally not a fan of recaptures but I hope to see this one again (after a few months).
DeleteBeen busy today cutting back a fallen tree that was blocking the river.traps set,what comes first?bleedin ninja turtle!
ReplyDeleteHaven’t seen a turtle this year, kind of glad at least one is OK. Good luck tonight - tight lines!
DeleteI don't know if it's the same one I had earlier this season (about 100yds downstream),but I wish they would stick to pizza!
ReplyDelete
DeleteOh, you actually caught it! Never caught a turtle - bet they’re fun to unhook!! Did you catch any barbel though?
It was rock hard, about a foot in diameter and heavy.hooked in the mouth,but still fun with forceps.not sure if it's the same one, definitely similar in size.i followed up with a mitten crab.an unjust reward for my one man work party.
DeleteHaven’t caught a mitten crab for a while either, seen a few though. Bit of a mixed bag - all you needed was a tufty for the hat-trick! Barbel next time then :-)
DeleteThought it was eels biting smaller baits but when it started happening to hard hooker's,I knew something was up.i don't think I saw a crab til last season.i know they're a right pain on the trent.had to shoo a few birds away,but been lucky.the time you have to watch is when they leave the pub(fnar,fnar!).
ReplyDeleteVery rarely see the crabs since I quit fishing at night. Have to keep a constant eye out for birds though - especially using bread for bait!
DeleteHi Brian , I caught this fish recently ! All healed up and obviously feeding . It bears the scar but lives on ! Well done 👍
ReplyDeleteSorry, I missed this comment. But that is absolutely brilliant to hear - tough old fish! Did you get a photo? I’d love to see it’s progress - [email protected] - thank you
Delete