Introduction

The British angling community is celebrating a new milestone—the official approval of a 150-pound Wels catfish as the new British record. This incredible catch showcases the potential of UK waters and the skill of anglers dedicated to landing these freshwater giants.

In this article, we delve into the details of this record-breaking catch, explore the biology of the Wels catfish, discuss its resurgence in British waters, and provide practical tips for catching these impressive fish.

The Record-Breaking Catch

Details of the Catch

On September 28, 2024, angler Shaun Ing made history by catching a colossal 150lb 3oz Wels catfish at Chigborough Farm and Fisheries in Maldon, Essex. The venue, known for its well-stocked lakes, has once again proven itself as a top destination for big fish enthusiasts.

Shaun battled the massive catfish for nearly an hour before successfully bringing it to shore. The fish was carefully weighed, photographed, and released back into the water, ensuring its survival for future generations of anglers.

Official Recognition

Following the catch, Shaun submitted his claim to the British Record (rod-caught) Fish Committee (BRFC), the official body responsible for verifying record fish in the UK. After months of review, including checks on documentation, photographs, and witness statements, the BRFC officially approved the claim in January 2025.

This approval makes Shaun Ing’s catfish the largest officially recorded Wels catfish in the UK, setting a new benchmark for British freshwater fishing.

Understanding the Wels Catfish

Origin and Characteristics

The Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) is one of the largest freshwater fish species in the world. Native to Eastern Europe and parts of Asia, it has been introduced into various European countries, including the UK.

This species is easily recognized by its:

• Elongated body with a smooth, scaleless skin.
• Broad, flat head with wide-set eyes.
• Distinctive barbels (whisker-like sensory organs) around its mouth, which help it locate food in murky waters.
• Huge size potential – Wels catfish can grow well over 200lbs in certain European waters.

Habitat Preferences

Wels catfish prefer:

• Deep, slow-moving rivers with muddy or sandy bottoms.
• Still waters, such as lakes and reservoirs, with abundant cover (sunken trees, rocks, vegetation).
• Warm water conditions, which promote faster growth and greater activity levels.

Catfish are predominantly nocturnal hunters, feeding on fish, amphibians, and occasionally even birds or small mammals.

The Resurgence of Catfish in British Waters

Historical Context

The Wels catfish was first introduced to Britain in the late 19th century but remained a relatively rare species due to climate limitations and strict stocking controls. Unlike their European counterparts, British Wels catfish tend to grow more slowly due to cooler water temperatures.

Current Distribution

In recent years, Wels catfish populations have increased in the UK thanks to controlled breeding programs and improved fishery management. Today, they can be found in select waters, primarily in southern and central England, where fisheries stock them specifically for sport fishing.

Some well-known UK catfish fisheries include:

• Chigborough Farm & Fisheries (Essex)
• Bluebell Lakes (Northamptonshire)
• Cottington Lakes (Kent)
• Waveney Valley Lakes (Norfolk)

These fisheries provide controlled environments for catfish to grow to impressive sizes while ensuring sustainable angling opportunities.

Techniques for Catching Wels Catfish

Essential Gear

To successfully target large Wels catfish, you need strong and reliable tackle. Recommended equipment includes:

• Rods: Heavy-duty carp or catfish rods with a 2.5 to 3.5lb test curve.
• Reels: Big pit or bait-runner reels with a strong drag system.
• Line: Braided mainline with a breaking strain of at least 30-50lbs.
• Hooks: Extra-strong size 2-6 circle or barbless hooks to handle powerful fish.
• Landing Equipment: A large landing net and an unhooking mat to safely handle big fish.

Best Baits for Wels Catfish

Wels catfish have a keen sense of smell and vibration detection, making them highly responsive to certain baits, including:

• Live or Dead Fish – Roach, carp, or trout mimic their natural prey.
• Oily Fish – Mackerel, sardines, or smelt create strong scent trails.
• Pellets & Boilies – High-protein fishmeal-based baits can be effective.
• Worms & Blood Baits – Nightcrawlers and blood-infused baits work well in murky waters.

Optimal Fishing Techniques

The most effective methods for catching Wels catfish include:

1. Bottom Fishing – Using a heavy ledger rig with dead or live fish near the lakebed.
2. Drift Fishing – Suspending a bait under a float rig to cover more water.
3. Lure Fishing – Large soft plastic lures or deep-diving crankbaits can trigger aggressive strikes.
4. Night Fishing – Wels catfish are most active at night, making dusk and dawn the best times to fish.

Conservation and Ethical Fishing Practices

Why Conservation Matters

Wels catfish are a valuable part of aquatic ecosystems, helping maintain balance by preying on weaker fish. However, overfishing and habitat destruction can threaten their populations.

Best Practices for Anglers

To ensure sustainable catfish fishing, anglers should follow these ethical guidelines:

• Catch and Release – Handle catfish with care and return them to the water safely.
• Use Proper Gear – Heavy-duty tackle helps prevent unnecessary exhaustion or injury to the fish.
• Respect Fishing Regulations – Follow local rules regarding catfish fishing limits and stocking policies.
• Minimize Handling Time – Reduce stress on the fish by keeping them in the water as much as possible.

By adopting responsible angling practices, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience the thrill of catching Wels catfish.

Conclusion

The approval of Shaun Ing’s 150lb Wels catfish as the new British record is an exciting moment for UK angling. This catch not only highlights the potential of British fisheries but also inspires other anglers to test their skills against these incredible freshwater predators.

As Wels catfish continue to thrive in UK waters, anglers should embrace ethical fishing techniques to protect these magnificent creatures while enjoying the thrill of the chase.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, targeting giant Wels catfish is a challenge like no other—one that requires patience, knowledge, and the right approach. Happy fishing!