Ham Bridge, River Teme

River level

The lowdown

• Ham Bridge sits about a mile from Martley on the B4204 towards Clifton-on-Teme. Classic Worcestershire valley stuff, with the river running through Silurian Mudstone country.
• Access is split into three handy bits. A lay-by near the bridge gets you onto the upper fishing, while farm parking opens up the middle and lower sections.
• The banks are steep in plenty of places, so don’t assume every swim is a simple hop from the car. A bit of planning saves a proper faff.
• The Teme can be deep and pushy here. Take particular care around the water, especially after rain when the flow gets lively and the colour comes in.
• Barbel are the headline act, and the Society says they can be very large. This is no place for flimsy tackle — hefty gear is the sensible shout.
• Chub are also listed for the River Teme, so keep an eye on creases, steadier edges and cover. There’s scope for a proper mixed-river session when conditions behave.
• Winter fishing or an early-spring recce is recommended for working out the best spots and access. Handy advice, given the steep banks and changing river levels.
• The Society provides a map and photograph to help identify the correct water. Worth checking those before setting off, particularly with the separate lay-by and farm access points.
• This is a rural stretch rather than an urban frontage. Quiet valley surroundings, proper river character and enough flow to keep your tackle honest.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Hefty barbel tackle is the sensible starting point, with feeder or other robust river approaches around the creases and steadier water. Chub fishing is also worth a look where the flow eases.

Access & tickets

The water is primarily accessed by Izaak Walton Angling Society members, and the Society does not issue general day tickets. Day tickets may be issued by Pitlands Farm Holidays to its residents; the farm is part-way up the hill from Ham Bridge towards Clifton-on-Teme.

Fish the club names

barbel, chub

Named by Izaak Walton Angling Society (Worcester) across its waters, not for this stretch on its own.

Key rules

• Only rod-and-line fishing is allowed.
• Only one rod may be used while river fishing.
• A Society salmon permit is required to fish for salmon.
• All trout and grayling must be returned immediately.
• Trout and grayling may not be retained in keepnets.
• Dogs are not permitted on Society waters.
• Members must carry a current membership card while fishing.
• Take particular care because the river can be deep and strongly flowing.

Where it is