River Trent, Beeston below Beeston Weir

River level

The lowdown

• This stretch runs for just over 1¼ miles below Beeston Weir. That’s a decent wander, with plenty of river to explore rather than being boxed into a handful of pegs.
• The water is described as fast and shallow, so expect plenty of pace and a bit of proper river character. Look for changes in flow and the crease where quicker water meets steadier stuff.
• Directly below the weir is the headline water. Chub and barbel are dominant here, making the area well worth a close look when the fish are on the munch.
• The weir pool is noted for pike. A very different sort of swim from the shallow running water, and one to keep in mind if you’re after a predator.
• Further downstream, roach and dace become the named targets. That sounds like a good change of gear from the heavier water under the weir.
• Trotting is the obvious river approach for the shallower runs, while a feeder can be handy when you want to hold a bait in one spot. Keep things tidy in that pace.
• Access is from Canal Side near Beeston Lock. You cross over the canal using the footbridge close to the locks, so there’s a bit of a walk and bridge faff before you’re fishing.
• Parking is in the surrounding roads. Directions start at the A52 Dunkirk roundabout and continue via Beeston Road or University Boulevard, then Queens Road, Station Road, Meadow Lane and Canal Side.
• It’s members-only water, with night fishing allowed only with a Night Fishing Permit. The closed season runs from 15 March to 15 June inclusive, so check your dates before setting off.

Methods: Trotting should suit the fast, shallow runs, with feeder tactics worth a look where you can find a steadier crease. Around the weir pool, the named pike water offers a different angle.

Access & tickets

Members-only on the stretch listed here.

Fish the club names

chub, barbel, roach, rudd, pike

Key rules

• Members only; day-ticket fishing is not stated as available on the holder’s current water page.
• Closed season is 15 March to 15 June inclusive.
• Night fishing requires a Night Fishing Permit.
• Night Fishing Permit applications require a passport photo, a stamped self-addressed envelope, the angler’s name and book number.
• Access is from Canal Side near Beeston Lock, with river access over the canal using the footbridge close to the locks.

Where it is