River Aire – Stocksbridge, Riddlesden

River level

The lowdown

• This is the official River Aire – Stocksbridge venue, tucked into the Riddlesden stretch near Keighley. A proper mixed bit of river, with coarse and game-fishing opportunities.
• The club’s limits run from the golf course to the cricket field. There’s also a short upper length beside the golf course, but that section is pleasure fishing only.
• Expect a changing river rather than one uniform channel. The Aire here has faster shallows, steadier runs, deeper holes and slower stretches to pick apart.
• Overhanging trees are a big part of the character. They’ll offer cover and likely give you some interesting-looking edges, but mind the room when setting up.
• The water can be clear, so keep things tidy and take a careful, stealthy approach. No crashing about on the bank — the fish won’t thank you for it.
• Fly fishing, trotting and bait fishing are all used on the River Aire. That gives you plenty of scope, whether you fancy working a run or sitting it out in a deeper hole.
• The club names brown trout, grayling, barbel, chub, dace, pike and perch among its River Aire species. A cracking spread, with both game and coarse interest.
• Two matches are allowed on the venue, subject to the match secretary. Worth bearing in mind if you’re after a quiet session or planning a club event.
• Access is from Bar Lane before the River Aire bridge. Cross the canal bridge, follow the canal bank to the fishing entry, and use the provided car park along that route.
• Keep to the stated access and parking route. Don’t wander onto private estate or mill land — the club’s canal-bank approach is the one to follow.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Fly fishing, trotting and bait fishing are the main approaches mentioned for the Aire. With faster shallows, steady runs, deeper holes and slower water, there’s scope to switch tactics as the river changes.

Access & tickets

Get a yearbook through the society’s membership arrangements; membership runs from January 1 to December 31, with no joining fee and postage and packing included in published yearbook prices. Fishing can begin immediately after payment, using your PayPal receipt as membership evidence.

Fish the club names

trout, barbel, chub, roach, pike, perch

Named by Leeds and District Amalgamated Society of Anglers across its waters, not for this stretch on its own.

Key rules

• Yearbook holders only; anglers must hold the relevant Leeds & District ASA yearbook.
• An Environment Agency rod licence is also required.
• The coarse-fish river close season is 15 March to 15 June inclusive.
• The trout close season is 1 October to 24 March inclusive.
• The short upper length adjoining the golf course is for pleasure fishing only.
• Two matches are allowed, subject to the match secretary.
• Use the stated access and parking route rather than private estate or mill land.

Where it is