Elton Fishery, River Nene

River level

The lowdown

• This is proper barbel country, with the stretch producing the River Nene record barbel at 19lb 4oz. That’s the main target, and a chunky one at that.
• The upper limit sits one field above where the backwater leaves the main river. Downstream, you’re fishing to Nassington Road bridge — also known as The Red Bridge.
• The backwater is included, as is the Willow Book for two fields above its confluence with the backwater. Handy bit of extra water to explore.
• Fishing isn’t continuous on both banks, so check your access and don’t assume every bit of bank is in play. The river winds through livestock-grazed meadows.
• It’s not just barbel. Specimen roach and chub are present, with pike and perch reaching specimen proportions too.
• There are occasional river carp, plus a large head of mixed silver fish. Decent bream shoals tend to gather towards the lower end.
• A cracking setup for proper river work: barbel tactics around the crease and stronger flow, with trotting or feeder approaches for the silvers, chub and roach.
• The fishery is members-only and normally fully subscribed. A waiting list is available, with Wellington syndicate members getting priority for Elton.
• Entry is through a locked gate. Members are issued keys, with a deposit required, and there’s a designated fenced and gated parking area.
• It’s a daytime-only stretch. Fishing runs from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset, with no night fishing permitted.

Methods: Barbel are the headline act, with feeder work and other river tactics suited to the flow and crease. Trotting or lighter feeder approaches should come into their own for the roach, chub, mixed silvers and lower-end bream shoals.

Access & tickets

Day tickets are available online through Peterborough & District Angling Association. The 2026 adult advance ticket is £5, senior is £3 for anglers aged 65 and over, and juniors under 18 are free; booking on the day adds a £2 surcharge. Annual night permits need to be arranged by contacting the association directly.

Fish the club names

barbel, roach, chub, pike, perch, carp, bream

Key rules

• A current Environment Agency rod licence is required.
• River fishing is closed from 15 March to 15 June inclusive.
• Live freshwater fish bait is prohibited.
• All fish must be returned alive.
• Landing nets are compulsory.
• Unhooking mats are compulsory.
• Camping, fires, barbecues and excess alcohol are prohibited.
• Do not block gates or access routes when parking.

Where it is