Wels catfish in Sweden – the country's largest freshwater fish
The wels catfish (Silurus glanis) is Sweden's largest freshwater fish and can exceed 2.5 metres. It is red-listed and protected in Sweden, which means it may not be fished. This guide covers how to recognise it, where it lives and what to do if one bites anyway.
Mal (Silurus glanis) är Sveriges största sötvattensfisk. Arten är rödlistad och fredad i Sverige – en oavsiktligt fångad mal ska omedelbart och varsamt släppas tillbaka.
Most common methods
Where wels catfish live in Sweden
Swedish populations are small and found in a few waters in southern Sweden, including the Emån, Möckeln and Helgeån systems, and Båven in Sörmland. The species favours warm, nutrient-rich water with soft bottoms and vegetation.
Several populations have been supported by stocking and spawning-site restoration. Sightings are reported to Artportalen and help research.
Recognising the wels catfish
The wels has a large, broad head, small eyes, two long barbels on the upper jaw and four shorter ones under the chin. The body is scaleless and slimy, and the anal fin runs along almost half the body.
It is sometimes confused with burbot, but burbot is much smaller and has only one barbel under the chin.
If you hook a wels catfish
The wels is protected all year. Release it immediately and as gently as possible – ideally without lifting it out of the water. Cut the line close to the hook if it is deeply hooked.
Please report the catch to the county administrative board or Artportalen. It provides valuable information on how the populations are doing.
Frequently asked questions
When is the season for mal?
The peak season for mal in Sweden is June–August.
How big does mal get?
Mal can grow up to 100.0 kg.
What's the best method to catch mal?
Common methods for mal are Fredad – ej målart.
Can you fish for wels catfish in Sweden?
No. The wels catfish is red-listed and protected in Sweden. An accidentally caught fish must be released immediately.
How big do wels catfish get?
Fish over 2 metres and 50–70 kg have been observed in Sweden. In Central Europe the species can grow even larger.