Conger conger
Season calendar
- Season
- April–December
- Water temperature
- 12–22 °C
- Spawning
- June–August
- Behaviour
- Nocturnal predator
Techniques
- Night bottom fishing
- heavy tackle
Timing
- May to November, most active while the water is warm.
- Full darkness is essential; nights with little moonlight are better.
Where
- The seaward face of mole rip-rap, the foot of harbour walls, wrecks and block piles.
- From 5 to 25 m; it hides in holes by day and comes out at night.
Technique
- Heavy bottom rig: 100-150 g lead, 0.60-0.80 mm mono trace, 2/0-5/0 hooks.
- Bait: whole or half sardine, squid, mackerel fillet - bloody and smelly works.
- Strike immediately and pull the fish clear of the rocks; if it reaches its hole you lose the rig.
- Its teeth and skin cut; carry long pliers and thick gloves.
- If you are releasing it, cut the hook link rather than putting a hand near the mouth.
Frequently asked
- When is the best time to catch european conger?
- The productive window for european conger runs April–December. June–August is the spawning period; releasing your catch during these months is strongly advised.
- What water temperature does european conger feed in?
- European conger is most active between 12 and 22 °C. Outside that band its feeding rate drops off.
- How do you fish for european conger?
- Common methods: Night bottom fishing, heavy tackle.