Roach (*Rutilus rutilus*) and rudd (*Scardinius erythrophthalmus*) are two of the UK's most widespread freshwater fish. Found in rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs and ponds throughout Britain, they are often overlooked by fly anglers but can provide excellent sport on light tackle, particularly when feeding on natural insects.
Although closely related and frequently found together, the two species have slightly different feeding habits. Rudd are naturally adapted to feeding close to the surface, with an upturned mouth that makes them particularly well suited to intercepting insects floating or struggling in the surface film. Roach have a more central mouth and are generally happier feeding throughout the water column, taking insects, nymphs and other food as it drifts past.
Both species feed on a wide variety of natural food. Midges, buzzers, olive nymphs, freshwater shrimp, bloodworm, aquatic insects, algae and tiny terrestrial insects all form part of their diet. Larger specimens will also occasionally take small fry and other larger food items, although the vast majority of fly fishing revolves around imitating small natural food sources.
During warm weather, rudd in particular can provide excellent dry fly fishing. Fish cruising just beneath the surface will often rise confidently to tiny dry flies, beetles, midges and other terrestrial patterns. Roach will also feed from the surface during hatches but are often just as likely to be found taking small nymphs or buzzers beneath the surface.
Small buzzers, slim Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Hare's Ear Nymphs, bloodworm imitations and tiny shrimp patterns all make excellent choices when fish are feeding below the surface. When fish are rising, Griffiths Gnats, small CDC patterns and other delicate dry flies can produce surprisingly enjoyable sport.
Both species often form shoals, particularly smaller fish. Once feeding fish have been located it is possible to enjoy consistent action, while larger specimen roach and rudd are generally more cautious and may hold slightly deeper or closer to bankside cover.
Presentation is particularly important. Fine leaders, delicate casts and natural drifts usually produce the best results, while heavy flies and splashy presentations can quickly put fish down. These are species that reward finesse rather than power.
A 3-weight to 5-weight fly rod is ideal for targeting both species. Floating fly lines cover almost every situation, allowing anglers to fish tiny dry flies, buzzers and lightly weighted nymphs with excellent presentation. Balanced, lightweight tackle makes even modest-sized fish tremendous fun to catch.
At Peaks Fly Fishing, we see roach and rudd as excellent species for developing fly fishing skills. They encourage careful observation, delicate presentation and an understanding of insect life, many of the same skills required for successful trout fishing. They are also ideal species for introducing newcomers, younger anglers and those looking to enjoy relaxed summer fishing on light tackle.
Although they lack the explosive runs of larger predators or game fish, both species fight well for their size and can provide consistent action throughout the warmer months. Summer evenings, when midges and other insects are active, often produce the best fishing, with rudd especially willing to feed from the surface.
Roach and rudd demonstrate that enjoyable fly fishing is not limited to traditional game species. Readily available, beautifully marked and great fun on light tackle, they offer an enjoyable challenge for anglers willing to think beyond trout and salmon and explore another rewarding side of fly fishing.