Tench ( Golden ) junior fishing guide

Ergasilus sieboldi, also known as the gill maggot, is a tiny parasite that attaches to the gills of freshwater fish. The adult females have long white egg sacs that trail behind them, making them easy to spot. They feed on the fish’s gill tissue, blood and mucus, which makes it harder for the fish to breathe and stay healthy. Heavy infections can cause fish to become tired, lose weight, grow slowly, or even die — especially in warm weather. This parasite can spread quickly through a fishery, so good fishery management and strong biosecurity are really important to keep fish safe.

Schyzocotyle acheilognathi, or the Asian tapeworm, is a long ribbon-like parasite that lives inside the intestines of carp and other freshwater fish. It attaches to the gut wall and steals the fish’s food, which can slow their growth, weaken them, and even block the intestine completely. Young fish are especially at risk, and heavy infections can cause serious health problems or death, so good fishery management and biosecurity are important to stop it spreading.

Argulus mongolianus is a newly discovered fish louse recently found in the UK. It attaches mainly to the gills, mouth, and head of fish, causing irritation, stress, and sometimes deaths. It has already been confirmed in carp, roach, and bream, and may infect all freshwater species. Because it is new and potentially harmful, reporting any suspicious lice or fish behaviour is very important.

Blackspot is a common parasite that forms tiny black cysts on the skin and fins of freshwater fish. It looks alarming but is normally harmless and part of a natural cycle involving snails and birds. Only very heavy infections or small fish are affected. In most cases, blackspot is nothing to worry about.

Chilodonella is a fast-spreading parasite that attacks the skin and gills of freshwater fish. It can cause heavy mucus, grey patches, breathing problems, and even death if untreated. It thrives in poor water quality, overcrowded waters, and when fish are stressed. Good fishery management is the best way to prevent outbreaks.

Ichthyobodo necator (Costia) is a rapidly spreading parasite that attacks a fish’s skin and gills. It causes lethargy, breathing problems, weight loss, and can be deadly—especially for young or stressed fish. It thrives in both cold and warm water, so good management and low-stress conditions are essential to prevent outbreaks.