Why Fish for Eels?

Eel fishing occupies a unique niche among freshwater anglers. Eels are challenging, unpredictable, and surprisingly strong fighters for their size. They're most active at night, making eel fishing an atmospheric, immersive experience quite unlike daytime coarse fishing. Whether you're targeting them for sport, for the table (where local regulations permit), or simply for the challenge, here's everything you need to get started.

Understanding Eel Behavior Before You Fish

Successful eel fishing starts with understanding the fish. Key behavioral traits to keep in mind:

  • Eels are nocturnal — the best fishing is typically from dusk through the early hours of the morning
  • They prefer warm water — summer nights (June–August in the Northern Hemisphere) are peak eel fishing time
  • Eels favour cover and structure — fish near undercut banks, sunken debris, weed beds, and bridge pilings
  • They are bottom feeders — keep your bait hard on the riverbed or lake floor

Tackle & Gear

You don't need specialist equipment, but certain choices will make your eel fishing more effective:

  • Rod: A medium-action 1.5–2 lb test curve rod works well. Eels aren't enormous fighters, but a stiffer rod helps control them during unhooking.
  • Reel: Any reliable fixed-spool reel loaded with 8–12 lb monofilament line is adequate.
  • Hooks: Use a strong, forged hook in size 4–8. Eels have tough mouths and strong jaw muscles — a flimsy hook will be a problem.
  • Lead/Weight: A simple running leger rig with a 1–2 oz lead is the most versatile setup. A running lead allows the eel to pick up the bait without immediately feeling resistance.
  • Bite indicators: A bobbin or electronic bite alarm is helpful for night fishing when visual detection is difficult.

Best Baits for Eels

Eels are smell-driven predators. Strong, oily, or bloody baits consistently outperform others:

  1. Lobworm: The most reliable and widely used eel bait — present a bunch of 2–3 worms on the hook
  2. Deadbait (small fish): Sections of roach, ruffe, or bleak work well; fresh is always better than frozen
  3. Liver: Chicken or lamb liver releases powerful attractant scent in the water
  4. Prawn: Fresh or defrosted prawns are effective, particularly in estuarine environments

Recommended Rig: The Running Leger

Thread your mainline through a lead link or run ring, add a small bead, and tie to a size 10 swivel. Attach a 12–18 inch hook length of 10 lb monofilament to the other end of the swivel, finishing with your chosen hook. Cast to your chosen spot, tighten the line until just slightly slack, and set your bite indicator. When the indicator rises steadily — strike and hold on.

Handling Eels Safely

Eels are notoriously slippery and will twist vigorously when hooked. A few tips for safe, humane handling:

  • Keep a dry cloth or unhooking mat ready before you strike
  • Use long-nosed forceps or a disgorger to remove hooks — don't attempt to use fingers inside an eel's mouth
  • For catch-and-release, minimise time out of water and lower the eel gently back headfirst

Regulations & Responsible Fishing

Eel populations are under significant pressure in many countries. Always check your local fishing regulations before targeting eels — many jurisdictions now prohibit the retention of eels or impose strict size and bag limits. Where catch-and-release is practiced, it contributes positively to the survival of a critically important species. Fish responsibly and help protect this fascinating creature for future generations.