Little Barford Power Station

River level

The lowdown

• This is the bit behind Little Barford Power Station, with SDAA controlling the fishing rights. Handy enough — the stretch is clearly identified and sits right on the Great Ouse.
• At roughly 350 yards, it’s a compact section rather than a massive wandering length of river. That makes it easier to get your head around and find a swim that looks bob on.
• The pegs are sheltered and set on a relatively flat bank. Less faff under your feet, and a more comfortable set-up for a full session.
• SDAA calls it an excellent mixed fishery. The headline fish are large river carp, with tench and zander specifically named for the section too.
• The water suits float tactics, so trotting and working a float through the flow are firmly on the cards. Keep an eye on the crease and any steadier water tucked out of the main push.
• Ledger tactics are also suited here. A feeder or static approach should give you another route when the river is carrying a bit more pace or the float is hard work.
• This looks like a flexible river venue rather than a one-method specialist swim. Pleasure anglers and specimen hunters are both catered for across SDAA’s waters.
• For carp, think properly tidy tackle and a landing net ready to go. For tench and the usual river fare, a float is the natural starting point where the flow allows.
• The section is just upstream of St Neots, beside the power station. Access and parking details aren’t published on the checked official pages, so don’t assume a particular gate or parking spot.
• Night fishing isn’t confirmed for this river section. Standard SDAA membership does not include a night permit, while the listed night permits apply to other waters, not Little Barford.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Float tactics and ledger tactics are both suited to the water. Try a float through the steadier flow, or switch to feeder or ledger work when the river is pushing through.

Access & tickets

Access comes through Shefford and District Angling Association Ltd membership, which provides entry to its river venues with a single club ticket. The official membership page does not publish a separate Little Paxton day-ticket price; payment details are supplied to applicants by the registrar.

Fish the club names

carp, tench, zander

Key rules

• Leadcore is prohibited on all SDAA waters.
• Members must have an assembled landing net while fishing.
• Members must carry and use an appropriate unhooking mat or cradle.

Where it is