Top Barbel Fishing Countries

The barbel is a group of freshwater fish in the genus *Barbus*, most notably the European barbel (*Barbus barbus*), recognized for its elongated body, whisker-like barbels around the mouth, and preference for fast-flowing rivers. Barbel fishing is especially popular in European countries, with the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Spain standing out as top destinations due to their extensive river systems such as the Thames, Seine, Rhine, and Ebro, respectively. While commercial harvesting of barbel is limited due to their moderate culinary value, the species is highly prized among sport anglers for its fighting spirit and challenge. The fishing industry around barbel in these countries is thus primarily recreational, supporting a robust network of tackle shops, guided tours, and tourism centered on catch-and-release angling, particularly in the UK where barbel fishing has a long and storied tradition.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.