Oxque

River level

The lowdown

• This is around 1.8 km (1.1 miles) of River Swale, with Downholme Bridge forming the downstream limit.
• The setting is remote and upland, with classic Swaledale feel. A proper escape from the faff of busier waters.
• RADAS describes Oxque as excellent fly water. It’s fly and worm only, so leave the feeder and float gear at home.
• The water contains trout only. Expect fast-flowing river water rather than a lazy, flat glide.
• The trout season runs from 25 March to 30 September inclusive. There’s no fishing from 1 October until 25 March.
• Access is available beneath the Downholme Bridge arch from the downstream river bank. There’s also a lay-by before the road bends right, marked by a RADAS sign on a tree.
• There is designated angler parking on the farm track leading to Oxque Farm. Parking is also available beside the road near Downholme Bridge.
• Keep things tidy and low-impact. Gates must be shut after access, while dogs, fires, barbecues and littering are all prohibited.
• It’s catch-and-release water. Handle every trout carefully and return it alive, with no fish killed or removed.
• Single-point barbless or nipped barbed hooks only. Double and treble hooks are prohibited, and a disgorger must be carried. Knotless, Environment Agency-spec landing or keep nets are required.
• 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 main game here, with worm also allowed. Fish the faster runs and trouty water carefully, keeping everything tidy and within the beat rules.

Access & tickets

RADAS day permits can be bought online and cost £12.50 per angler. They are valid from 6:00am to 10:00pm on the booked date, and include Easby Waters. Anglers also need an Environment Agency rod licence.

Fish the club names

trout

Key rules

• No fishing from 1 October until 25 March; the trout season is 25 March to 30 September inclusive.
• Fly and worm only.
• All fish must be handled carefully and returned alive. No fish may be killed or removed.
• Only single-point barbless or nipped barbed hooks are permitted. Double and treble hooks are prohibited.
• A disgorger must be carried. Keep or landing nets must be knotless and meet Environment Agency specifications.
• No more than two rods may be used at once.
• Dogs, fires, barbecues and littering are prohibited. Gates must be closed after access.
• Anglers must carry proof of RADAS membership and hold an Environment Agency rod licence.

Where it is