Newton Blossomville / Lavendon Meadows

River level

The lowdown

• There are three main sections to get your head around. The upstream field has slightly faster runs, while the central field opens out into wider, deeper water with several features.
• Downstream, things get more untamed. It’s wooded, snaggy and quicker, so expect a different game from the open meadows. Keep your tackle sensible around the cover.
• Biggleswade & Hitchin describe the wider stretch as two large hay meadows plus a heavily wooded length, with deep pools and shallow glides in the mix.
• A maintained path runs around the river and between the pegs, with fishermen’s bridges linking the sections. Handy stuff, especially when moving swims.
• The club says the fish stock and potential are still being established, as the section has been lightly fished. That gives it a bit of an unknown, exploratory feel.
• There’s potential for specimen, match and pleasure fishing. Reported catches include carp to 21lb, barbel over 10lb, perch to 4lb 2oz, bream over 10lb and chub over 7lb.
• The varied water should give you options: trotting or light float work on the runs and glides, then feeder or more selective tactics in the deeper pools. Keep an eye on those snags downstream.
• Night fishing is permitted, making the deeper central water and quieter wooded areas worth considering after dark. Do check the club rules and fish safely around the river.
• Access is from the B565 between Olney and Lavendon, via a track beside a disused sewage-treatment works. The private locked field car park may not suit low-clearance cars, and the gate must be locked after entry or exit.

Methods: It’s a proper mixed bag of water: try trotting the quicker runs and shallow glides, or use a feeder in the deeper pools. Around the wooded downstream section, fish carefully and keep clear of the snags.

Access & tickets

Lavendon Meadows day tickets are not available. Fishing is available to club members, with OCFA e-membership listed online for adults at £30, OAPs at £20 and juniors at £0.

Fish the club names

carp, barbel, perch, bream, chub

Key rules

• A valid EA rod licence is required.
• Coarse fish must not be removed, except specified alien species.
• Unhooking mats are required for specimen fishing.
• Camping, swimming and boating are prohibited.
• Cars must use designated car parks and must not block access.
• Open fires and barbecues are prohibited.
• All eels must be returned alive.

Where it is