Choosing a location and preparing for fishing

As every good angler knows, choosing the right spot is the key to success. On the Rhine I have a few tried and tested spots where the barbel regularly hang out. This time I chose an area where the water flows a little slower - ideal for my fishing method.

I decided to fish with pellets and boilies, my preferred combination when it comes to catching big fish in the Rhine. In addition, I prepared special river feed to attract the fish to my fishing zone.

My fishing technique: pellets, boilies and feeder

My fishing technique was relatively simple but very effective. I used a classic river rig with a feeder that I filled with a special, protein-rich and aromatic feed. I had prepared this feed especially for barbels, which love the smell of river-dwelling bait.

I attached both pellets and boilies to the hook - two different baits that I combined to find out which was more attractive to the barbel. I chose the pellets with a halibut flavour, which had proven itself in the past, while the boilies had a subtle fruity note that also attracted other fish species that are found in the Rhine.

The first bites and the first barbel

After casting the rig, I waited patiently for the barbel to appear. It was worth it! After a few minutes, the rods began to bend slightly and I knew I was on the right track. After a strong strike, I felt the barbel's first fight. It was a beautiful specimen weighing around 2.5 kg - an indescribable feeling when I finally brought it to the bank.

The catch continues

But that was not the end of my fishing luck. After the first catch, two more magnificent specimens followed. In total, I managed to catch three beautiful barbel that day, each of them unique but all with the same strength and beauty. This fish is a symbol of the Rhine and catching it is an unforgettable experience for any angler.

Tips for successful barbel fishing on the Rhine

Use strong rods and sturdy rigs - the barbel is a strong fish and fishing in the current of the Rhine requires good equipment.

Try different baits - the combination of pellets and boilies worked well for me, but don't be afraid to experiment.
Fodder is key - the river bait I used was high in protein and had a strong scent. This attracted the barbel immediately.
Patience pays off - sometimes it seems like the fish aren't biting, but patience is essential when fishing.

Conclusion

Fishing on the Rhine is always an experience, but this day was special. My technique with pellets, boilies and feeder proved extremely successful and my reward was three beautiful barbels. If you are a fishing enthusiast and have not yet had the chance to fish on the Rhine, I can only recommend it. The Rhine will never disappoint you.