River Weaver — Red Lion section, Winsford

River level

The lowdown

• This is the Red Lion section, running for approximately 500 yards and covering pegs 161–193.
• Pegs 163–165 are closed. They’re dangerous, so give them a wide berth and stick to the fishable pegs.
• The river deepens as it enters the Weaver navigation, giving the section a different feel from a shallow natural river run.
• Roach and bream provide the bulk of match weights. Pole or feeder tactics are the association’s recommended starting points.
• It’s also a favourite with pike anglers, with pike to about 30 lb present. Carp over 20 lb are in the river too, so don’t under-gun if targeting them.
• The stretch has a popular parkland character, with the Weaver Valley Parkway following the river from the Red Lion pub. Expect plenty of public activity around the water.
• Access is available from behind the Red Lion pub. There’s another route from the ranger’s cabin near Morrisons, but that involves a long walk — a trolley or barrow is a very good shout.
• The parkway may host public events, and fishing can be affected when those are taking place. Worth bearing in mind before setting off.
• The section was canalised in 1732 to support the salt industry. That navigation character, extra depth and public-facing setting are all part of its appeal.
• Fishing runs from June 16 to March 14. No night fishing is allowed here, even though WDAA offers a separate night-fishing sticker upgrade on some waters.

Methods: For the match fish, start with pole or feeder tactics and work the deeper navigation water for roach and bream. Pike anglers have a proper target here too, while the presence of carp over 20 lb means sensible tackle is the order of the day.

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

carp, bream, roach, pike

Key rules

• Fishing is available from June 16 to March 14.
• A WDAA permit and a current Environment Agency rod licence are required.
• Up to three rods are allowed on WDAA river sections when the correct EA rod licence is held.
• Permit holders must carry a valid permit while fishing.
• An order confirmation email is not a valid permit; the physical permit must arrive before fishing.
• Bailiffs may check anglers’ rod licences.
• General WDAA daytime angling hours are 3:30am–10pm from April to October.
• General WDAA daytime angling hours are 6:30am–10pm from November to March.
• Pegs 163–165 are closed because they are dangerous.

Where it is