Bream (Abramis brama)
Current record: 22lb 11oz
Water: Ferry Lagoon, Fen Drayton Lakes
The bream is a diverse group of freshwater and marine fish belonging to several genera, including Abramis, Blicca, and others. These fish are widely distributed across Europe, Asia, and North America, inhabiting a variety of aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and estuaries. One of the most well-known species is the common bream (Abramis brama), which is highly sought after by anglers for its size and sporting qualities.
Common bream are easily identified by their deep and laterally compressed bodies, which are often bronze or greenish-brown in color. They exhibit a distinctive hump on their heads, especially in older individuals, contributing to their recognizable appearance. Typically, they grow to lengths of 12 to 24 inches, although some individuals can exceed these dimensions. Bream are known for their longevity, with some individuals living for several decades.
Bream are opportunistic feeders, consuming a varied diet that includes aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and plant matter. They are particularly active during the warmer months when their metabolism is at its peak. Anglers use a variety of baits and techniques to catch bream, with the challenge lying in understanding their feeding behavior and preferred habitats.
In addition to their importance in recreational fishing, bream play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems. They contribute to nutrient cycling and help regulate the populations of smaller organisms. However, like many fish species, bream populations are vulnerable to habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing. Conservation efforts, including sustainable fishing practices and habitat protection, are essential to ensure the continued health of bream populations and the ecosystems they inhabit.
The bream typically weighs 2 to 4 kg and measures between 30 and 55 cm (12 and 22 in) in length, although specimens as long as 75 cm (30 in) have been documented (4.4 to 8.8 lb). The longest it may be is 90 cm (35.5 in), and its recorded weight is about 9.1 kg (20 lb).
The body of the common bream is high-backed, laterally flattened, and has a somewhat undershot mouth. It is a silvery grey colour, while older fish, particularly in clear waters, might be bronze in colour. Fins range from grey to black, but they are never reddish.