Caversham Lock to Kennetmouth — Free Fishing (Kings Meadow)

River level

The lowdown

• The fishable water is identified as Caversham Lock, Caversham Meadow, Reading, running through Kings Meadow to the junction with the Kennet and Avon Canal at Kennet Mouth.
• This is free fishing, so there’s no day ticket or club permit faff. You still need a valid Environment Agency rod licence before setting up.
• The official description calls the fishery accessible and comfortable for fishing. Handy stuff if you want a straightforward Thames session without a trek through the undergrowth.
• The Kings Meadow riverside bank sits alongside the towpath area. The council describes a walk between Reading Bridge and Kennet Mouth, with the Coal Woodland beside the Kennet mouth.
• Expect a big open-space feel, mature trees and willow beds. That should give the bank a bit of cover and plenty to work around, though no fixed swims or peg count are published.
• The lock is part of the character here, but don’t fish the lock area itself. Fishing is also prohibited from the mooring platform at Tesco, so keep those spots well clear.
• Winter can change the place completely. The council says Kings Meadow is susceptible to flooding, so check conditions before heading down and be sensible around high water.
• Parking is available in the south-west corner of the park off Napier Road, with pay-and-display parking noted off Napier Road. The park address is Napier Road, Reading, RG1 8DF.
• There are no published details for a measured stretch length, specific fish species, night fishing or a set peg layout. Tactics and target species are therefore best kept flexible on the day.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: A flexible Thames approach makes most sense here: work the towpath swims with trotting or feeder gear, watching the flow and looking for creases, slack water and cover around the trees and willow beds. Keep it simple and adapt to the river on the day.

Access & tickets

Reading Borough Council manages Kings Meadow and the Coal Woodland riverside open space. Fishing is free, with no day ticket or fishing permit required, but an Environment Agency rod licence is still needed.

Fish the club names

The club doesn't list species for this stretch, so we haven't guessed.

Key rules

• A valid Environment Agency rod licence is required.
• Fishing is prohibited from the mooring platform at Tesco.
• Fishing is prohibited from the lock area.
• The area is susceptible to winter flooding, so take care in high-water conditions.

Where it is