Swarkestone Bridge (north bank, east side)

River level

The lowdown

• The old weir below the bridge is the obvious feature. It’s described as suitable for barbel, chub, perch and pike, so there’s a bit of variety straight away.
• Downstream pegs are described as holding all species. That’s a broad mix of coarse-fish habitat rather than a one-trick stretch.
• Near Woodshop Lane, the river turns slow and deep. A feeder or a patient float approach should suit those steadier swims.
• Upstream, the water gets shallower. Chub and barbel are the named targets here, with the flow and depth likely calling for a more mobile approach.
• There’s enough variation to chop and change. Try the crease, quieter edges and any pace around the old weir rather than sitting on one line all day.
• Trotting is the obvious shout where the flow allows, while a feeder gives you a way into the deeper water by Woodshop Lane.
• Night fishing is permitted on the river section, but BMAA’s shelter rules are tight. Open-fronted brolly systems only — no bivvies, tents or enclosed shelters.
• Dogs aren’t allowed on BMAA river sections, and there’s no walking access along the Trent banks during the coarse-fishing close season.
• Members must fish from the bank and keep to the riverbank, towpath or suitable access. Respect the residents around the private river road and pathway.
• For specimen fishing, bring a suitable landing net and unhooking mat. All coarse fish, salmon, sea trout and brown trout must go straight back.

Methods: Try trotting the shallower upstream water for chub and barbel, then switch to feeder work in the slow, deep Woodshop Lane area. The old weir is the feature to investigate for barbel, chub, perch and pike.

Access & tickets

BMAA membership is required for access. Catton members must email BMAA’s secretary with their name and membership number to obtain the gate combination code; the official Catton page gives no public day-ticket price.

Fish the club names

barbel, chub, perch, pike

Key rules

• Guest tickets must be bought in advance by an existing full BMAA member, and the guest must be accompanied while fishing.
• The river road and pathway beside the houses are private for residents. Members may fish there only with residents’ agreement and must respect their privacy.
• Use the pedestrian access from Woodshop Lane between Swarkestone Bridge and The Crewe & Harpur pub, via the gravel path between a house and bungalow, about 30 metres from the main road.
• No access to walk the River Trent banks during the coarse-fishing close season.
• Keep to the riverbank, towpath or appropriate access and fish from the bank.
• No dogs, litter, property damage, fires or barbecues.
• Carry a current Environment Agency rod licence.
• Return all coarse fish, salmon, sea trout and brown trout. A suitable landing net and unhooking mat are required for specimen fishing.
• A maximum spacing of 15 yards may be required between anglers.

Where it is