Silver Bream
Blicca bjoerkna
Silver bream (Blicca bjoerkna) is a small cyprinid of slow rivers, canals, lakes and backwaters across much of Europe and western Asia. It feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates and plant material, and is usually a modest-sized coarse fish rather than a prime sport species.
Identification points
- Deep, laterally compressed bream-like body that is noticeably smaller and more slender than common bream
- Silvery flanks with relatively large, clearly visible scales and a grayish back
- Pectoral and pelvic fins often tinted reddish to orange, with a small downward-pointing mouth
Habitat
Slow-flowing lowland rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs, oxbows and sheltered backwaters with soft mud or silt bottoms, often near weed beds, reeds and deeper slack water.
Bait notes
Maggots, worms, casters, bloodworm, pinkies, breadflake and small pellets all take silver bream. Small pieces of corn or sweetcorn can work on stillwaters and canals.
Behavior
Often shoals, especially as juveniles, and feeds near the bottom on chironomid larvae, worms, small crustaceans, mollusks and detritus. It is more active in warmer months and may feed in dawn/dusk periods and overcast conditions.
Caution
No major species-specific hazard is known; standard freshwater consumption and local size/season regulations apply.
Fishing notes
Fish light float gear or a feeder rig close to the bottom with small hooks and fine line. Feed sparingly with groundbait or chopped worm to hold small shoals; bites are often delicate, so a sensitive float or quivertip helps.