River Weaver — Meadow Island, Winsford

River level

The lowdown

• This section sits on the road towards the salt mine, with parking relatively close. Much less public than the Ferry Steps length, so it should suit anglers who prefer a bit less faff getting to the bank.
• The fishing runs from 16 June to 14 March. It’s also considered one of the more flood-friendly lengths, staying fishable when some other sections become awkward.
• The Meadow Island pegs are numbered 570–597. The listed section length is approximately 300 yards, giving plenty of room for a tidy session when there isn’t a match booked.
• The main sport is bream and skimmers, making this a proper match or pleasure-fishing venue. Roach, eels and perch are also present, with carp and pike occasionally moving through.
• Pole or feeder tactics are the go-to approaches. Look for steady, comfortable water and keep an eye on the flow, especially after rain when a bit of colour can put the fish on the munch.
• A small inlet separates Meadow Island from the Aerosol length. It’s deep and has black silt, forming part of an old river course once used for barge and salt loading.
• Regular match bookings matter here, so check before making the trip. The section is not day-ticket water: you need a current WDAA annual permit.
• Night fishing is allowed with the right night-fishing permit or stamp, but sessions must be booked through the association website and are limited to 48 hours. A portable toilet bucket is required.
• Keepnets aren’t for specimen fish or carp, and all fish must go straight back. Bring an appropriate landing net, plus an unhooking mat or cradle if targeting carp, pike or barbel.

Methods: Pole and feeder tactics are described as effective, with bream and skimmers the main target. Roach, perch and eels add a few cheeky alternatives, while carp and pike turn up occasionally.

Access & tickets

Permits are issued by Winsford & District Angling Association. The 2026/27 permits run from June 1, 2026 to May 31, 2027; a separate night-fishing sticker does not apply here because this stretch is no-night-fishing.

Fish the club names

bream, carp, pike, roach, perch, eel

Key rules

• Fishing is available from 16 June to 14 March.
• A WDAA annual permit and current Environment Agency rod licence are required.
• Up to three rods may be used on the River Weaver with the correct EA three-rod licence.
• Fish must be returned to the water.
• Barbless or micro-barbed hooks are permitted under the general rules.
• Specimen fish and carp must not be retained in keepnets or carp sacks.
• An appropriate landing net is required. An unhooking mat or cradle is required when fishing for carp, pike or barbel.
• Camping and unauthorised swim cutting are prohibited. General fishing times are normally 6.30am–10pm during the river season.

Where it is