Live River Levels

It’s the height at that particular gauge, not the depth of your swim. Gauges use different measuring points, so 2m on one river isn’t the same as 2m on another. Compare a gauge with its own usual range and recent readings, not another river’s number.

No. The usual range describes past levels at the gauge — it isn’t a safety limit. Slippery banks, debris, fast water and local flooding can still make a swim dangerous. Check official flood warnings, the forecast and access rules. If water is rising onto the bank, give it a miss. Never wade into floodwater.

Safety first: rising water can cut off your way back. If the bank is safe and fishing is permitted, look for steadier water close in rather than automatically casting into the strongest flow. Keep checking the edge and your exit. Bigger leads won’t make an unsafe swim worth fishing.

Keep your silhouette off the water and make less fuss on the bank. Look for cover, deeper runs and changes in pace where access allows. Start with a modest feed and adjust to actual bites rather than piling bait in. Use tackle suited to your target fish and snags — don’t go too light just because it’s clear.

Falling water doesn’t guarantee a bite or a safe bank. Mud can be slick and debris can keep moving after the peak. Recheck the swim’s pace, depth and snags before choosing a float or feeder line. Start steadily and let bites guide your feeding; yesterday’s productive line may fish differently today.

Gauges can pause, change measuring feeds or stop reporting. We show when the reading was taken and flag readings more than six hours old. A gap isn’t proof the river is steady. Try another gauge on the same river, check official warnings and judge the water in person.