RECORD FISH

14 May 2026

New British Barbel record ratified

The British Record (rod-caught) Fish Committee (BRFC) would like to announce the ratification of a new British record fish.

The committee has examined a claim made by Nathan Buckingham in respect of his capture of a Barbel which was originally claimed to weigh 23lb 1oz. In accordance with BRFC protocol, the scale used to weigh the fish has been duly tested and was found to have been inaccurate and showing a higher reading than the true weight of the fish. Following adjustment to take into account the discrepancy, the BRFC has ratified the claim and awarded the record at the weight of 22lb 10oz.

Nathan’s capture took place on 14th February 2026 at Fisher’s Green on the River Lea and is a re-capture of the fish which previously held the British record when caught by Simon Baker at 22lb 1oz.

The Committee would like to remind readers that in the event of the capture of a potential record fish, the captor should first contact the British Record (rod-caught) Fish Committee without delay. Captors of potential record fish should contact the Secretary, Nick Simmonds, by email at [email protected]  Nick will record the details of the capture and advise the claimant on progressing the claim. More information about what to do if you catch a record fish can be found in the BRFC web pages

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