River Trent — Sutton on Trent

River level

The lowdown

• The section sits on the tidal Trent at Sutton on Trent, Nottinghamshire. First glance can look a bit featureless and barren, but don’t write it off.
• There are underwater rocky areas and gravel runs to hunt out. Those are the bits worth paying attention to rather than just settling on the easiest-looking peg.
• The top of the tide is reckoned favourable by local anglers. Keep an eye on the tide chart, as the water can change character quickly.
• When the tide turns, you may need to retreat smartly. This isn’t a place for casually wandering off and leaving your gear miles from the bank.
• Night fishing needs extra care, specifically because of the tidal conditions and the need to get back quickly if the water starts pushing in.
• The stretch is 1½ miles long, giving permit holders plenty of water to explore. Peg-hopping is part of the deal, although one peg has a 72-hour maximum in a session.
• A barbel-focused approach fits the water’s identity. Look for the gravel runs and rocky areas, then work the crease and steadier-looking water with a sensible feeder or other bottom approach.
• The section is private Society fishery water, not open-access fishing. You need the right membership and permit before even thinking about setting up.
• Guests are possible, but there’s a fair bit of faff: they must also be Barbel Society members, the permit holder must stay with them, and the maximum visit is 48 hours.

Methods: A tidy feeder or bottom approach around the gravel runs, rocky areas and crease looks the natural starting point. Keep things mobile, watch the tide and be ready to move when it turns.

Access & tickets

You need current Barbel Society membership first, then buy the separate fishery permit. Members can use up to three 24-hour guest tickets per season, but guests must also be Society members and fish alongside the member.

Fish the club names

barbel

Named by The Barbel Society across its Trent day-ticket waters, not for this stretch on its own.

Key rules

• A current Barbel Society membership is required, plus a separate fishery permit.
• Permit and ticket holders only are allowed on the fishery.
• Membership cards and permit books must be carried.
• An Environment Agency rod licence is required.
• All fish must be returned.
• Unhooking mats or cradles must be used.
• No more than two rods may have lines in the water at once.
• A member may fish the same peg for a maximum of 72 hours in one session, then must leave it for at least two days.
• No driving or parking on top of the Sutton flood banks; use designated parking areas only.
• Gates must be closed and locked.

Where it is