Lavendon Mill, weir sections — River Great Ouse

River level

The lowdown

• The fishery sits between Olney and Lavendon/Turvey, with the weir dividing the upstream and downstream sections. You’ll need to cross the weir to reach the fishing water, so take care and travel light.
• Downstream starts with deep sections below the weir, then pushes into faster, wide shallows with reeds. That change of pace is bound to be worth a look, especially when the river has a bit of colour.
• Near the tree line, the downstream section tightens up and gets deeper again. Proper crease-and-cover water, with the narrower channel likely to be the first place to investigate.
• Upstream is described as wide and deep, with depths of roughly 6ft to 14ft in places. That’s a fair lump of water, so plumbing around and finding the depth changes will be time well spent.
• The stretch is described as lightly fished or largely untouched. Ideal if you fancy a quieter session rather than elbowing for a peg, though the big water may need a patient approach.
• Bream shoals have been caught, while large carp have been seen in the stretch. The association also says its club-record barbel came from this area, so there’s proper specimen interest here.
• The water is suitable for specimen, match and pleasure angling. A feeder or carefully fished bait could cover the deeper water, while trotting may come into play where the flow shallows and speeds up.
• Night fishing is permitted, which opens up the deeper downstream water and quieter margins. Keep everything tidy and stick closely to the parking and access arrangements.
• Secure parking is available in a locked car park, approached using postcode MK46 4DF. Park only in designated club bays, then walk down the bridleway; don’t drive to the river to unload.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: For the deep upstream water and the holes below the weir, a feeder or specimen approach looks the natural starting point. In the faster shallows, try working the crease and reeds with a float or light feeder when conditions allow.

Access & tickets

Day tickets are available online from Olney & Clifton Fishing Association. The official price is £5 for 18 hours; check the marked night-fishing conditions before fishing after dark.

Fish the club names

carp, bream, barbel

Key rules

• Day tickets are not available for Lavendon Mill.
• Night fishing is permitted.
• Anglers must park in designated club bays only.
• Do not drive down to the river to unload.
• The car-park gate is opened with the code in the membership book.
• The car park is private property beyond the designated bays.
• Anglers cross the weir to reach the fishing sections.

Where it is