Listen to the Song – Golden Bars
The complete lyrics are included in the companion book, Our Jewels in the Water, allowing readers to follow every song while learning about Britain’s remarkable freshwater fish.
Enjoying the music?
The companion book Our Jewels in the Water includes the full lyrics, additional stories, exclusive photographs and beautiful illustrations for every species.
The Rudd
Golden Bars
“Like bars of gold gliding beneath the summer sun, the Rudd brings light, colour and life to Britain’s quiet waters.”
Species Profile
The Rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) is one of Britain’s most colourful freshwater fish. Its golden flanks shimmer in the sunlight, while its brilliant crimson fins make it one of the most striking members of the carp family.
Often confused with the Roach, the Rudd can be recognised by its upturned mouth, perfectly designed for feeding close to the surface. It is a fish that loves warmth, thriving among lily pads, reeds and dense weed beds where insects and floating food are plentiful.
On a bright summer’s day, a shoal of Rudd flashing beneath the surface is one of the most beautiful sights in freshwater fishing.
Clive’s Story
Whenever I think of Rudd, I think of sunshine.
Unlike many other species, they seemed to come alive on warm summer days. You could often see them cruising just beneath the surface, their golden bodies catching the light as they searched for insects drifting on the water.
As a young angler, I soon learned that Rudd could be caught in many different ways. A slowly sinking piece of bread, a single maggot or a floating caster could all tempt a bite when presented carefully.
There was always something exciting about watching a fish take the bait in full view.
Those moments reminded me that fishing isn’t always hidden beneath the surface. Sometimes nature allows us to witness the whole story unfold before our eyes.
Natural History
The Rudd prefers still or slow-moving waters rich in aquatic vegetation.
Its upturned mouth allows it to feed naturally on insects that fall onto the water, floating seeds, algae and small aquatic creatures living among the reeds and weed beds.
During the warmer months, Rudd often gather in loose shoals near the surface, basking in the sunshine and feeding confidently throughout the day.
Although they rarely grow to great size, specimen Rudd are powerful fighters on light tackle and are admired for their beauty as much as their sporting qualities.
Interesting Facts
- Scientific name: Scardinius erythrophthalmus
- Family: Cyprinidae (Carp Family)
- Average size: 8 oz–1½ lb
- Specimen size: Fish over 3 lb are exceptional
- Habitat: Lakes, ponds, canals and slow rivers with abundant vegetation
- Diet: Insects, floating seeds, aquatic plants, algae and small invertebrates
- Lifespan: Up to 15 years
- Distinguishing feature: Its upturned mouth is ideal for surface feeding.
Behind the Song
When writing Golden Bars, I wanted the music to sparkle with the same warmth as a summer’s afternoon.
The melody dances lightly, reflecting a shoal of Rudd weaving effortlessly through the reeds beneath the golden light.
It is a joyful song that celebrates one of Britain’s most colourful freshwater fish and reminds us that some of angling’s happiest memories are made on long, lazy summer days.
Conservation
Rudd depend upon healthy lakes, ponds and canals with clean water and abundant aquatic plants.
Reeds, lilies and marginal vegetation provide shelter, spawning grounds and food, making these habitats essential for their survival.
Protecting wetlands ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the sight of these golden fish gliding through Britain’s still waters.
Clive’s Reflection
The Rudd has always reminded me that fishing should be enjoyed as much as it is pursued.
There were days when the catches were modest, yet the memories became unforgettable because of the sunshine, the dragonflies skimming across the water and the quiet beauty of the surroundings.
The Rudd taught me that success isn’t always measured by the weight in the keepnet.
Sometimes the greatest reward is simply being there to witness nature at its finest.
“Like bars of gold beneath the water, the greatest treasures are often those that simply brighten our day.”
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