River Kennet – Woolhampton

River level

The lowdown

• The venue runs roughly 750 metres upstream of Wickham Knight Bridge No. 30, then another 750 metres downstream to the Salmon Cut. A decent bit of water to explore.
• It’s classed as improved river navigation rather than a true canal, though parts of the natural Kennet riverbed are still present. So expect a slightly unusual mix of character.
• The upper section is fairly straight, with reed beds, woodland and overhanging trees. The flow is steady and canal-like — ideal for picking apart the margins and quieter edges.
• Downstream, things get much more river-ish. Bends, creases and slacks give you plenty to look for, especially where the flow changes or eases back.
• Barbel, chub, perch and bream are the named residents. The club also describes the venue as holding all the usual river species.
• There’s proper form in the catch history, too: BACAS anglers have had barbel over 13 lb, chub over 6 lb and perch over 3 lb. Matches have been won with more than 30 lb of bream.
• Tactics can be kept nicely flexible. Trotting, feeder work and presenting a bait around the crease or slack all fit the changing water. Keep an eye on the reed beds and tree cover.
• The permit season runs from 16 June to 14 March inclusive. That gives you summer and autumn river work, plus the colder months when a bit of colour and steady flow can be bob on.
• Parking is at Hillfoot Farm on Bath Road. Use the gated field on the left of the farm lane, then it’s a short walk down the lane and across the railway line. Take extra care there — no faffing about.
• You can fish with up to two rods. Handle fish responsibly and use a knotless landing net, with the usual club rules applying across the stretch.

Methods: A flexible river approach suits this water: trot the steadier upper section, or work a feeder around the bends, creases and slacks lower down. Keep looking for changes in depth and flow, especially near reed beds, trees and the remaining natural riverbed.

Access & tickets

Twyford & District Fishing Club lists membership options on its membership page; the 2026/27 membership period runs from 16 June 2026 to 15 June 2027. Supervised guest permits must be bought in advance and are available online or from Woodley Tackle Box.

Fish the club names

barbel, chub, perch, bream

Key rules

• Permit season is 16 June to 14 March inclusive.
• Maximum of two rods permitted.
• Guest tickets require supervision by a club member.
• Guest fishing is dawn to dusk only.
• Club rules apply, including responsible fish handling.
• Use a knotless landing net.
• Take extra care when crossing the railway line.
• The venue page states no additional restrictions beyond the club rules.

Where it is