In Middle Franconia, Bavaria, a drama is unfolding at Lake Brombach where a catfish, about two meters long and weighing 90 kilograms, has become a nightmare for swimmers. In just the past two weeks, this giant fish has attacked at least six people, including a 69-year-old man who was bitten on the arm while swimming. Police had to shoot the catfish after it attacked five swimmers at another location in the lake. This situation has sparked real panic and led to the removal of swimming platforms and fencing off parts of the lake for safety reasons.
Experts explain that the catfish’s aggressive behavior is linked to the spawning season and low water levels, which force them to lay eggs under swimming platforms and aggressively defend their territory. Andrea Mašea from the Middle Franconia Fishing Association warns that this is a natural but dangerous phenomenon.
A police officer was forced to kill one of the catfish to prevent further panic and potential drownings, which sparked sharp reactions from animal protection groups like PETA, especially since the fish was later served in a local restaurant.
Local authorities are now balancing swimmer safety with nature conservation, while residents and tourists nervously eye the lake that was once a place of enjoyment but has now become an arena for battling giant catfish. Is this just the beginning, or will the situation calm down? One thing is clear – swimming in Lake Brombach is no longer the same.
If you thought fish were harmless, think again! Would you dare to dive into this lake? Or is it better to stay dry and watch from afar? Share your thoughts, maybe you have the solution to this catfish drama!
