Grindleton, River Ribble

River level

The lowdown

• This is a proper club water, with almost four miles of fishing around Grindleton. The association controls the stretch and describes itself as owned by its members.
• Most of the fishing is double-bank, giving members plenty of water to explore. Exact peg numbers aren’t stated, so expect a more natural river feel rather than a marked-up commercial setup.
• It’s fly-fishing only. No bait, feeder or trotting — and the rule stays in place whatever height the river is running at. Nice and clear-cut.
• The Grindleton Bridge gauge is the key check. The water generally fishes well between 6 inches and 30 inches, so keep an eye on levels before setting off.
• Brown trout are present, and the association reports a decent head of grayling. A dry-fly, nymph or wet-fly approach could all come into play, depending on the hatch and colour.
• Members mainly fish for salmon and sea trout. The association reports sea-trout catches in daylight on falling water, as well as after dark, so dropping levels are worth watching.
• There’s serious fish history here, too. Salmon over 20 lb have been recorded and safely returned, while double-figure sea trout have been caught after dark in the association’s waters.
• Historical figures include 126 salmon and 136 sea trout in 2010. Recent catches have declined, with poor conditions, reduced runs and less fishing effort all mentioned as factors.
• The association has around 50 members and is managed by a board of seven directors. Membership is required, or anglers need permission from the directors before visiting the watercourses.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Fly fishing is the only game in town. Match the river height and conditions, with trout and grayling approaches when the water’s right, and keep falling levels in mind for sea trout and salmon.

Access & tickets

Fishing is by Clitheroe Angling Association membership, or by permission from the directors. Contact the association directly before visiting its watercourses; no official Grindleton day-ticket price is listed.

Fish the club names

trout

Key rules

• Strictly fly-fishing only.
• The fly-only rule applies whatever the river height.
• Membership is required to fish the water.
• Non-members need permission from the association’s directors.
• Contact the association for permission to visit its watercourses.

Where it is