Alwalton, River Nene

River level

The lowdown

• This is a rural-looking stretch with plenty of water to explore around Alwalton Lock and the weir. You’ve got main-river channels, slower backwaters and a good mix of swims to sniff out.
• Barbel are the headline act. In summer, they commonly move into the backwaters, where the pace is kinder and the fish can really get on the munch.
• As autumn and winter arrive, barbel tend to head back into deeper, slower main-river water. That seasonal switch is well worth keeping in mind when choosing your swim.
• Chub are also present, especially around the barbel areas. Keep an eye on steadier water, crease lines and cover where a chunky chub might be sitting tight.
• The main sluice pool can produce pike, so predator anglers have a cheeky option alongside the coarse fishing. It’s a handy bit of variety when the river isn’t playing ball.
• Silver fish are found throughout the fishery, giving you plenty of general coarse-fishing potential. A float or feeder approach could be bob on depending on flow and depth.
• The river’s character changes quickly between the weir, backwaters and main channel. Have a wander first, look for smoother glides, deeper water and any colour pushing through.
• The surrounding meadow may contain grazing livestock, so take care around the field and keep gates and access points sensible. Proper rural river fishing, with a few moving parts.
• There’s no published peg count or total length for the Alwalton venue, so treat it as an explore-and-find-a-swim sort of day rather than a numbered-peg session.

Methods: Barbel are the main game, with feeder or close-in approaches worth considering around the backwaters and deeper main river. Trotting and general float fishing should suit the silver fish, while the sluice pool offers a pike option.

Access & tickets

Day tickets are available online through Peterborough & District Angling Association. The 2026 adult advance ticket is £5, senior is £3 for anglers aged 65 and over, and juniors under 18 are free; booking on the day adds a £2 surcharge. Annual night permits need to be arranged by contacting the association directly.

Fish the club names

barbel, chub, pike

Key rules

• A valid Environment Agency rod licence is required in addition to the club ticket or membership.
• The club’s general rules apply to the Alwalton stretch.
• Do not park beyond the field gates on Mill Lane.
• Do not park on roads in Alwalton village.
• Fishing is normally from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
• There is no night fishing on the River Nene under standard P&D​​AA membership.

Where it is