Fish species
Eel fishing
The European eel (Anguilla anguilla) is a nocturnal predator with a keen sense of smell and an exciting target for mild summer nights. Here are the key tips for eel fishing.
Eel at a glance
- Best season
- Warm summer months (May–September)
- Best baits
- Lobworm, dead bait, fish strips
- Method
- Ledgering, mostly at night
- Best time of day
- After dark
- Key
- Warm dark nights and smelly baits
Locations: where eels hunt
Eels hide by day in holes, under stones, roots and weed beds, and forage at night. Good spots are weed edges, river mouths, harbours and silty areas. Eels are especially active in rain and thundery conditions.
Bait and rigs
Lobworms (often in a bunch), dead baits and fish strips are the best eel baits — the smell draws them in. A simple ledger rig with a running lead and a strong hook is enough. Eels often take on the move; a bite indicator or free-spool helps you time the strike.
Technique and handling
Fish after dark and strike promptly on a clear bite so the eel doesn't swallow the bait too deeply. Eels are slimy and twist during the fight — a damp cloth and unhooking tools make careful unhooking easier.
Season, night and conservation
Prime time is warm summer nights from May to September. The eel is critically endangered — always respect closed seasons, size limits and local rules, and release fish carefully where required.
5 quick eel tips
- Fish on warm, dark nights — ideally in thundery air.
- Use smelly baits like a lobworm bunch or fish strips.
- Strike promptly on a clear bite (don't let it swallow deep).
- Have unhooking tools and a damp cloth ready for careful release.
- Check the closed season and size limit first.
Eel fishing FAQ
What is the best bait for eel?
Lobworms (in a bunch), dead baits and fish strips — the strong smell attracts the eel.
When do eels bite best?
On warm summer nights from May to September, after dark, often in thundery conditions.
What should I keep in mind with eel?
The eel is critically endangered. Respect closed seasons, size limits and local rules, and handle the fish carefully.
How do I remember good eel spots?
Record the spot, bait and conditions. In the Easy Fishing app you pin every catch on the map and find your best eel spots again.
