Scientific name
Rutilus rutilus
Swedish name
Mört
Maximum length
up to 49 cm
Maximum weight
up to 1,7 kg
Spawning
Frühjahr ab etwa 10 °C
Swedish record
1,726 kg · 49 cm · 1998

Technique in brief

Classic float or bottom fishing with fine tackle is the most reliable method. A pre-baited spot keeps the shoal there; after that, the fineness of the rig determines the number of bites. The best times are the early morning and evening hours during the warmer half of the year.

Tackle

A 3,60–4,20 m match rod or pole, size 12–18 hooks and a main line of around 0,16 mm are entirely sufficient. Maggots, worms, maize and flakes of bread work as bait; a little groundbait significantly increases the success rate.

Handling the catch

Roach are delicate fish with a soft mucous coating. Moisten your hands, do not place the fish on dry ground and release it promptly. Anyone taking baitfish should check the rules of the fishing area — transferring live fish to other waters is not permitted in Sweden.

Season by country

  1. Jan Quiet
  2. Feb Quiet
  3. Mar Good
  4. Apr Good
  5. May Prime time
  6. Jun Prime time
  7. Jul Prime time
  8. Aug Prime time
  9. Sep Prime time
  10. Oct Good
  11. Nov Quiet
  12. Dec Quiet

Prime time · Good · Quiet

The calendar shows bite windows, not closed seasons. Binding closed seasons and minimum sizes are set by the individual water and appear on its page.

Where in Scandinavia

Official sources

Checked: 04.08.2026

Frequently asked questions

Is the roach suitable for fishing with children?

Yes — it is common, stays close to the shore and can be caught with a simple float rig and maggots or maize. A shallow, sheltered shore and some groundbait are usually enough for quick results.

May I take caught roach for use as baitfish?

Within the same water, usually yes, provided the fishing area permits it. Transferring live fish to another water is not permitted.

Where are roach found in summer?

Close to the shore over weed and sandy areas in the early morning and evening hours, and often somewhat deeper or in the shade of jetties and overhanging trees during the day.