The asp, a fascinating predatory fish: everything you need to know about this little-known freshwater carnivore

The asp is a little-known fish in French waters. However, it is gradually gaining a following among lure anglers. Originally from Eastern Europe, this cyprinid has gradually conquered French rivers since the 1970s. Its reputation as an unrivalled fighter and its spectacular hunts make it a highly prized fish that's a lot of fun to fish for. Let's find out more about the asp, its characteristics, its habitat and, of course, how to fish for it.

Characteristics and behaviour of asp

L'aspe Leuciscus aspius "or Aspius aspius "is a fish belonging to the Cyprinidae family. This very powerful fish has a massive, elongated body. The latter is adorned with silver sidesa greenish back and a white belly. Its morphology is perfectly suited to areas with strong currents and to predation.

Here are the main physical characteristics of the asp:

• Size : It can exceed 1 metre in length
• Weight : The largest specimens can weigh up to 10 kg.
• Its mouth is turned upwards. This explains why the asp is very comfortable hunting on the surface.
• It has enormous fins. This enables it to accelerate rapidly.

The asp is a fish that feeds mainly on small fish as it grows. It is a formidable hunter. Its brutal attacks and vigorous defence make it a formidable opponent for anglers. We've witnessed some spectacular hunting scenes on our trips to France's major rivers, particularly the Loire, where the asp is particularly well established.

Asp reproduction takes place in spring, generally in the summer. between March and May. As with troutAsp generally spawn in current areas on gravelly bottoms. Females can lay eggs up to 100,000 eggs. Aspe reaches its sexual maturity around 3 to 5 years old and can live for up to 15 years in the right conditions.

As they grow, asps adopt an increasingly solitary lifestyle. Young asps generally live in shoals, while adults become more independent.

Habitat and distribution of the asp in France

The asp is particularly fond of flowing, oxygenated water. It is mainly found in large rivers and the great rivers French waters. It can also thrive in brackish water.

Since its arrival in France in the 1970s, the asp has undergone remarkable expansion. It has colonised France in two ways:

1. Naturally The Rhine, the gateway to eastern France
2. Artificially through deliberate or accidental introductions into various basins

Today, asp can be found in many French rivers, including :

• The Rhine and Moselle
• The Loire
• The Rhône
• The Seine
• The Garonne

This expansion testifies to its remarkable ability to adapt. Despite its status as an introduced species, the asp does not appear to be significantly disturbing the balance of local ecosystems.

Fishing for asp: techniques and advice

Asp fishing has become a real passion for many anglers. Its combativeness and spectacular attacks make it a much sought-after fish. We have experimented with different approaches to this fish. Here's an overview of the most effective ways of teasing this fearsome predator:

Fishing techniques	Recommended lure	Optimum period	Recommended lures
Surface fishing	Surface lures (poppers, stickbaits)	Summer, early autumn	Tiemco Red Pepper Lucky Craft Sammy 100 Xorus Asturia 110
Medium-depth fishing	Jerkbaitscrankbaits	Spring, autumn	Duo Ryuki 80S Jackson Artist 80 Zip Baits Orbit 90 Sp
Deep-sea fishing	casting jigs, fast-moving soft lures	Winter, early spring	Jabbers Moxie Duo Drag Metal Cast slim Halco twisty

The best times to fish for aspe are usually in the morning and evening, especially in summer. Concentrate your efforts on current areas and bridge piers. These are places where asp like to hunt.

To maximise your chances of success, keep these tips in mind:

• Use robust tackle. It must be capable of fighting powerful fish in the current.
• Choose a discreet approach. Asp are very wary fish.

A valuable ally for fisheries research

Despite its status as an introduced species, the asp plays an important role in understanding French aquatic ecosystems. Fishermen can actively contribute to research by reporting their catches from fishing federations or aquatic environment management bodies. This data is invaluable in improving our knowledge of the distribution and evolution of asp populations in France.

As sports fishing enthusiasts, we're constantly on the lookout for new experiences and challenges. Asp are a perfect fit, offering memorable battles and moments of pure adrenalin. At the same time, it's vital to fish responsibly and help preserve this captivating species.

Whether you're a novice or an expert, aspe is always full of surprises and unforgettable fishing moments.