There are a range of different fish which are native to the UK waterways. Here is a guide to the different species you might find!
Carp: carp are found in the majority of UK canals and can grow to large sizes. They are easy to spot due to their dark brown and bronze colouration. They have a large, rounded body and strong fins. There are three major strains. The common carp are fully scaled, mirror carp are partially scaled and learther carp have practically no scales at all!
Roach: the roach makes up the largest numbers of fish within our canals. Roach are a shoaling fish, silvery grey in colour. They are often confused with Rudd. You can be sure by counting the lateral line scales (rudd have 40-55) and check the shape of the mouth – rudd have upturned mouths.
Pike: the pike is a spectacular predator! They have large, bony heads with upward looking eyes, a broad, flat snout and large mouth. They have a lot of sharp teeth! A torpedo shaped body allows for speedy movement!
You can find out more about fishing within our canal network over at the canal and river trust.