Fairmile (RDAA) — Cholsey area

River level

The lowdown

• • The combined South Stoke and Cholsey shared water is approximately 1.3 miles, with Fairmile forming part of that RDAA-managed run.
• • RDAA took over maintenance and bailiffing of the former LAA South Stoke and Cholsey stretches, so this is looked after association water.
• • The river here is classic middle Thames stuff. Think a proper flowing river rather than a stillwater plod, with plenty to explore along the bank.
• • South Stoke is described as an easy-walking stretch, which is handy when you fancy looking for a better swim rather than camping in the first peg you see.
• • Quality roach are a key draw. The river also holds big shoals of bream, so there’s plenty of scope for a busy feeder or float session when they’re on the munch.
• • Good chub are present too. Keep an eye on the more tempting bits of flow and the crease, especially when there’s a touch of colour in the river.
• • Pike are also named for the shared water, giving the stretch a cheeky winter option when the silver fish shoals are grouped up.
• • Access is via the track at the end of Ferry Road, South Stoke, and beyond the Perch and Pike pub. Park on the right of the track before the river.
• • RDAA gives upstream parking at ///galloped.bridges.unfocused and downstream parking at ///scorching.package.announce. The railway bridge marks the upstream boundary of the South Stoke east-bank section.
• • Keep moving sensibly, respect the no-fishing zone around structures, and don’t reserve swims. It’s a straightforward, explore-and-fish kind of Thames day rather than a faff-heavy venue.

Methods: Trotting and feeder fishing look the natural starting points for the roach and bream, while chub tactics suit the quicker water and tighter features. Pike give you a proper alternative when conditions and season line up.

Access & tickets

Buy the £10 non-member day permit through the Clubmate booking service linked by RDAA. Guest tickets are also listed for Wallingford B.

Fish the club names

roach, bream, pike, chub

Key rules

• A current Environment Agency rod licence is required.
• Do not fish within 25 metres of locks, bridges and connected structures.
• Park only in official marked car parks.
• No open fires.
• No camping or overnight stays in vehicles without prior fisheries-officer agreement.
• Do not reserve swims or pegs.
• Maximum of two rods except at specifically listed venues.
• Handle fish without placing them on hard surfaces.

Where it is