Leeches on a Pike Deadbait

Retrieved deadbaits last Monday while fishing on the Somerset Levels.

They might be small horse leeches, Britain's largest leech species, which can grow to over 15 cm in length. They are not particularly uncommon, and despite their size and name, they do not suck mammalian blood, instead feeding on invertebrates and decomposing flesh. Or they could be one of a number of smaller leech species, which feed on invertebrates, fish, amphibians or waterbirds.

Interesting hey? What they are NOT are fish leeches that we frequently see on pike in UK waters.

Pike Fishing

Planning to add useful content to this blog. Tackle and rig ideas and my thoughts on tactics.

I started piking in 1977 when I caught my first double, first 20 and upper 20 in 1978 and my still current personal best of 29lb 4oz in 1979.

So this blog will start in 1978. Fortunately still got most of the photos, though have forgotten the details of capures in many cases!