WikiCatch
Stone loach

Stone loach

Barbatula barbatula

Family
Nemacheilidae
Max Length
21 cm
Max Weight
0.2 kg
IUCN Status
LC
Water Type
freshwater
Fishing Spots
8

Overview

The stone loach is a European species of fresh water ray-finned fish in the family Nemacheilidae. It is one of nineteen species in the genus Barbatula. Stone loaches live amongst the gravel and stones of fast flowing water where they can search for food. The most distinctive feature of this small fish is the presence of barbels around the bottom jaw, which they use to detect their invertebrate prey. The body is a mixture of brown, green and yellow.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Maggots

    Effective for attracting loach.

  • Bloodworms

    Highly attractive to stone loach.

  • Small Earthworms

    A classic and reliable bait.

  • Gnat larvae

    When available, loach feed heavily on these.

  • Caddisfly larvae

    Found under stones in rivers.

Artificial Lures

  • Mepps Aglia #0Spinner

    Small spinners work well in clear water.

    Buy
  • Yo-Zuri Snap Bean 30SCrankbait

    Small, sinking crankbaits imitate small prey.

    Buy
  • Strike King Mr. Crappie Slab HammerSoft Plastic

    Small curly tail grub on a jighead

    Buy
  • Generic Pheasant Tail NymphFly

    Size 16-18. Dead drift presentation.

    Buy
  • Worden's Original Rooster Tail 1/24 ozSpinner

    Small and produces vibrations.

    Buy

Techniques

Fish near the bottom in rocky areas, and use a slow retrieve with plenty of pauses to give the fish time to react.

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Where to Find Stone loach

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Stone loach?+

Popular baits for Stone loach include Maggots, Bloodworms, Small Earthworms, Gnat larvae, Caddisfly larvae. Tip: Fish near the bottom in rocky areas, and use a slow retrieve with plenty of pauses to give the fish time to react.

Where can I catch Stone loach?+

Stone loach can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include England, United Kingdom; Baden-Württemberg, Germany; Alba / Scotland, United Kingdom. WikiCatch lists 8 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Stone loach get?+

Stone loach (Barbatula barbatula) can reach up to 20.9999993 cm in length and 0.2364 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.

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