Sleningford Watermill fishing beat, River Ure

River level

The lowdown

• The beat runs from the main gates to Mole End, all within the Sleningford Watermill site boundaries. Nice and straightforward, with no wandering onto the far bank — that side is private land.
• Only the site-side bank may be fished. The opposite bank is out of bounds, so keep your feet and tackle on the correct side.
• This is fly-fishing only. Coarse fishing is prohibited, so leave the feeder and float gear at home and bring the fly box instead.
• The nearby river has shallow, rocky and faster-flowing sections around the watermill. Expect a bit of variety as you work through the beat, with lively water rather than one flat, uniform run.
• The named fish are trout, grayling and salmon. There’s a three-trout catch limit, while every salmon must go straight back.
• The advertised fishing season is 1 April to 30 September. The terms also mention open-season facilities running from 1 April to 31 October, so check access details if you’re fishing late in the year.
• It’s described as peaceful, unspoiled and accessible. Sounds bob on for a quiet session, with the mill and river features giving the water plenty of character.
• Access can be restricted because of weather, visitor numbers or the season. Make your own risk assessment on the day — the river and millrace are fished at your own risk.
• Groups of three or more must book ahead. Under-18s need supervision, and at least one fisher in the party must be aged 18 or over.
• Closed-season access is by pre-arrangement only. Vehicles and belongings are also left at the owner’s risk, so don’t leave valuables knocking about.

Methods: Fly-fishing only, working the shallow, rocky and faster-flowing water around the mill. Pick your approach to the day’s conditions and keep an eye on the crease and pace of each run.

Access & tickets

Day tickets are available from reception. Prices are £10 for a half-day and £15 for a full day; payment is taken on the day by cash or card. A valid Environment Agency rod licence must be shown at reception.

Fish the club names

trout, trout, trout

Key rules

• Fly-fishing only; coarse fishing is prohibited.
• Fish only from the Sleningford Watermill site-side bank. The opposite bank is private land.
• Three-trout catch limit.
• All salmon must be returned.
• Follow local salmon byelaws.
• Fishing is at the angler’s own risk; make your own risk assessment and judge conditions on the day.
• Groups of three or more must book in advance.
• At least one fisher must be aged 18 or over; under-18s must be supervised.

Where it is