Eels - having a comeback?
Posted: Mon Feb 08, 2021 4:38 pm
I think eels may be having a bit of a comeback - at least in my local East Midlands area - over the last 2-3 years. I have had a couple of decent eels from the Trent and Mersey canal whist fishing for perch on worm, and I have had a 3 lb 2 oz and a 2 lb 4 oz eel on small deadbaits intended for zander from the T and M too. Additionally, I have heard of several big eels coming from the Trent recently on fishmeal boilies to barbel anglers and on deadbait to zander anglers.
I remember watching a video of chap stroking an eel (head to tail) on an unhooking mat and with a piece of damp toweling over its head. It remained totally motionless and calm. When I tried to do this, my eel went mental, freed itself from the barbless hook with consumate ease and jumped back into the canal. Eels are not my favourite species but they have a fascinating life cycle and I have considerable respect for their tenacity and strength.
I remember watching a video of chap stroking an eel (head to tail) on an unhooking mat and with a piece of damp toweling over its head. It remained totally motionless and calm. When I tried to do this, my eel went mental, freed itself from the barbless hook with consumate ease and jumped back into the canal. Eels are not my favourite species but they have a fascinating life cycle and I have considerable respect for their tenacity and strength.