The Roach (Rutilus rutilus)

Scientific Name of the Roach: Rutilus rutilus
Maximum Weight: 4.5lb (2kg)
Maximum Length: 14" (36cm)
Average Size Caught: 4-6oz (110-170kg)
Life Span: 10-15 Years

The Roach is a very hardy fish. It can survive in moderate pollution and low levels of oxygen. These factors account for the Roach being the predominant species in UK freshwaters. Very young Roach feed on plankton but as they grow they include algae, invertebrates such as snails and insect larvae such as Bloodworm in their diet. Very large Roach will sometimes feed on fry.

Roach will feed at all depths depending on the water temperature. In winter the Roach will feed in deeper water. In summer the opposite applies, this is due to the deeper water being warmer in winter and colder in the summer. Spawning occurs between April and June. They will shed an average of 20,000 eggs per 1lb of body weight. This is another reason why they are the predominant species.