Oakhurst to Bignor

River level

The lowdown

• This is one of the society’s named Arun fisheries, forming part of roughly six miles of non-tidal River Arun water. Nice and peaceful, with that mature, tucked-away feel.
• Expect a proper rural setting near Bignor, with the Arun water meadows and the South Downs landscape giving the stretch plenty of character. A world away from busy day-ticket chaos.
• The fishery details don’t give an exact length or peg count, so don’t expect a swim-by-swim map. It’s more a case of exploring the water and finding what’s ticking on the day.
• Bream to 6lb are named here, plus chub to 4lb. That’s handy all-round sport, especially if you fancy working the quieter glides and steadier bits.
• There’s also a large population of silver fish, so trotting or feeder fishing should be worth considering where the pace and depth suit. Keep things tidy and fish the water in front of you.
• Large carp are reported too, along with pike. That gives the stretch a few different strings to its bow, whether you’re after a proper sit over or fancy targeting predators.
• The society says the rewards are fine for anglers willing to put in the effort. In other words, have a wander, look for fishy features and don’t just plonk yourself on the first likely swim.
• The water is non-tidal, but river conditions will still matter. A bit of colour and extra push can get fish on the munch, while clearer, steadier conditions may call for a quieter approach.
• It’s membership-based access, and the society’s general rule is simple: take nothing but memories and leave nothing but footprints. All fish, including eels, must go straight back.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: A flexible approach looks bob on here: trotting or feeder work for the silver fish, bream and chub, with a more patient carp approach if you’re targeting the bigger fish. Pike are also present, so choose your tactics around the conditions and the swim.

Access & tickets

Access is through Billingshurst Angling Society membership. The society does not publish a public day-ticket price for Oakhurst to Bignor.

Fish the club names

carp, bream, pike, chub, eel

Key rules

• All fish, including eels, must be returned to the water.
• Take nothing but memories and leave nothing but footprints.
• Leave nothing behind on the bank.
• Access is membership-based.
• Night fishing is not stated as allowed on this stretch.

Where it is