Donnington / Donnington Back Stream (Weirs Mill Stream)

River level

The lowdown

• This is a proper Thames back stream rather than a big, open main-river slog. Expect a more intimate feel around the Donnington Bridge and Weirs Mill Stream area.
• The fishable stretch is approximately 1,000 metres, so there’s a fair bit of water to explore. Have a wander before settling on a swim.
• The weir below Donnington Road Bridge is the obvious feature. Flow can change when water is diverted through the weirs, so keep an eye on how the river’s behaving.
• Roach, perch, bream and skimmers are recorded here, plus a cheeky zander. It’s clearly got enough variety for both match anglers and pleasure fishers.
• For a mixed bag, trotting or a light feeder approach looks bob on when the flow allows. Work the crease and any steadier water beside the main push.
• Bream and skimmers make the quieter areas worth a look, while perch and zander give you something different when the smaller fish aren’t on the munch.
• The society describes its Donnington waters as prolific for match, specimen and pleasure angling. That’s a handy clue that the stretch can reward both busy sessions and more patient fishing.
• Houseboat etiquette matters here. Keep the noise down, and remember that TVAA specifically bans night fishing near the houseboats.
• Night fishing is permitted on the Donnington weir streams, but access and local restrictions still matter. Don’t assume every bit of bank has the same rules.
• Parking is a proper faff in the nearby residential roads, which are restricted to residents. The nearby Park & Ride is recommended, though it means a considerable walk.

Methods: Try trotting the creases and steadier water when the flow is friendly, or fish a light feeder for bream, skimmers and a mixed bag. The weir and flow changes are the places to keep checking.

Access & tickets

Littlemore Angling Society membership is open to anglers, and its day ticket costs £3 for fishing from dawn until dusk. Thames Valley Angling Association members may fish the Donnington stretch with Littlemore Angling Society’s permission.

Fish the club names

roach, perch, bream, zander

Key rules

• A permit is required; fishing without one is trespass.
• Littlemore Angling Society does not accept cash payment on the bank.
• Close all gates when entering and leaving the waters.
• Keep quiet near the houseboats.
• TVAA prohibits night fishing near the houseboats.
• Night fishing is permitted on the Donnington weir streams.

Where it is