Breinton (Lower Breinton)

River level

The lowdown

• The access point is Breinton Springs Carpark, near Breinton Church, postcode HR4 7PG. The Association gives the grid reference as SO 47239 39574.
• It’s roughly 160 metres from the car park down to the river. Bear in mind, the route is via a steep gravel path, so there’s a bit of faff getting tackle down.
• The banks are steep and the clay-based soil can get slippery. Proper care needed, especially after rain or when carrying a barrow or loads of gear.
• The stretch has a nice mix of shallow, quick riffles and steadier runs. That gives you a few different looks at the water rather than one flat, samey glide.
• Chub are a main target here. Look for steady water and the crease where quicker flow meets the run, with a mobile approach and light presentation worth considering.
• Barbel are also a headline fish. The faster, deeper water and the edges of the runs are the obvious areas to investigate, particularly when the river has a bit of colour.
• The section finishes at Belmont Hole, a deep hole approximately halfway between Breinton Church car park and the downstream Breinton–Wareham section. It’s the standout feature on the stretch.
• There are approximately 12 spaces in the car park. The official page does not state a total stretch length or number of pegs, so expect to find your own swim rather than fishing to a peg count.
• Keep an eye on river levels before setting off. The Association says levels can rise quickly, and the steep banks and slippery clay make changing conditions worth taking seriously.
• Day tickets cover sunrise to sunset only. Night fishing is restricted to adult members, so don’t turn up planning a cheeky overnight session on a day ticket.

Methods: The riffles and steady runs suit a mobile, close-water approach for chub, while barbel anglers can concentrate on the faster water and deeper features. Belmont Hole gives you a clear deeper-water option, but keep presentations sensible as levels can rise quickly.

Access & tickets

Get your ticket before heading onto a peg — there are no bank sales. Outlets include Woody’s Angling Centre and Rock’s Angling in Hereford, plus Docklow Tackle and Alan’s Fishing Tackle.

Fish the club names

chub, barbel

Key rules

• All anglers must carry a current photo-ID membership card or valid day ticket.
• A maximum of two rods is permitted on Association waters.
• H&DAA operates a zero-kill policy and all fish must be returned.
• Fishing must comply with Environment Agency byelaws and H&DAA closed seasons.
• No braided hook links are permitted.
• No unattended rods, fires or littering are permitted.
• Day tickets must be bought before fishing from approved tackle shops; they are not available on the bank.
• Day tickets cover sunrise to sunset only.

Where it is