Splashpole

River level

The lowdown

• The stretch sits just off the A509 between the two bridges, south of Olney. Access is on foot via the pathway and the foot entrance to Emberton Park, then down to the weir and across the bridge.
• Below the weir, the river gets properly lively. It’s fast-flowing and opens into varied terrain, with big fish of all species potentially present according to the association.
• The lower banks are significantly overgrown. Planned work-party clearance is mentioned, so expect a bit of jungle-style bank work for now. Proper boots and sensible tackle will help.
• Above the weir, there’s a large expanse of water. The main river divides between the weir and a shallow backwater, giving you a few different shapes of swim to investigate.
• Tench and carp are named above the weir. The backwater shallows towards the smaller bridge, while roach and perch are named around the bridge area.
• With fast water below and broader, quieter-looking water above, it should suit different sorts of anglers. Think trotting or feeder work in the flow, then more patient float or feeder fishing on the upper water.
• The stretch has historically seen minimal angling pressure. That makes a careful wander worthwhile, especially when you’re trying to find the crease, depth changes and the fish-holding edges.
• The association describes the lower section as holding big fish of all species. Keep specimen kit in mind, and remember that an unhooking mat is required for specimen fishing.
• Day tickets are available, but this is not a rock-up-and-pay-on-the-bank job. Sort the ticket through Olney & Clifton Fishing Association before fishing, then use the public A509 lay-by for parking. The lay-by has space for approximately eight cars. Swimming, boating, camping, fires and barbecues are all off the menu, so it’s a fish-only sort of day.

Methods: Below the weir, a controlled float approach or feeder could make sense in the quicker water, while the upper expanse and backwater offer scope for a steadier float or feeder session. Have a proper look first; the varied water and low historic pressure make finding the right swim the main job.

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, tench, roach, perch

Key rules

• Day tickets must be obtained through the association rather than bought on the bank.
• A valid EA rod licence is required, and anglers must follow EA rules. Local rules and applicable by-laws also apply.
• Unhooking mats are required for specimen fishing.
• Coarse fish may not be killed or removed, except listed alien species including zander and red signal crayfish.
• All eels must be returned alive and handled carefully.
• Camping, swimming and boating are prohibited on club waters.
• No open fires or barbecues are allowed; camping stoves are permitted.
• Dogs are not allowed without prior committee agreement, and swim reservation is prohibited.

Where it is