Fishery guide · Devon
Exeter Canal
Exeter Canal is a long, varied Devon water with proper specimen potential, including pike over 30lb and carp reported to 40lb or more. It can be a tricky old-school canal venue, but there are plenty of species and some cracking areas to explore.
“7.2/10 — The species mix is excellent, with reported carp to approximately 40lb or more and pike over 30lb.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Exeter Canal, also known as Exeter Ship Canal, runs for approximately 6 miles from Exeter Basin towards Turf Locks. Exeter & District Angling Association manages it for fishing, so this is a permit-controlled stretch rather than a free-for-all. A long canal like this can change character quickly, with fish location shifting between sections and seasons.
- 5 lakes: Clapperbrook, Double Locks, Countess Wear, Lime Kilns, Swans Nest
- Fish: carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub
- Tickets from: Day ticket — £15 per day
- Find it: Exeter · EX2 8DU
Plan your session
Fishery map of Exeter Canal
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Fishery
Exeter Canal
We haven’t got permission to show venue photos here yet. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Exeter Canal
Exeter Canal, also known as Exeter Ship Canal, runs for approximately 6 miles from Exeter Basin towards Turf Locks. Exeter & District Angling Association manages it for fishing, so this is a permit-controlled stretch rather than a free-for-all. A long canal like this can change character quickly, with fish location shifting between sections and seasons.
The species list is a proper mixed bag. Carp, mirror carp, bream, tench, roach, rudd, perch, pike, barbel, chub, dace and eel are all recorded. The canal is described as stocked with all species, giving you plenty to aim for whether you fancy a quiet float session, a feeder job or a more focused specimen campaign.
Pike are a big draw here. The best reported fish are over 30lb, or in the low 30s, so there is serious potential for a Devon canal predator. Pike anglers need to be properly equipped, including a suitable unhooking mat or equipment, a suitable landing net and a minimum 30lb wire trace. No cutting corners on a water with lumps like that.
Carp are reported to reach approximately 40lb or more, although this is regarded as a difficult carp water. Expect a proper hunt rather than guaranteed action. Find the fish, keep disturbance down and pay attention to the margins and quieter features. Local tackle-shop advice is well worth taking, as fish location varies along the canal’s length.
For more traditional canal fishing, Lime Kilns is noted for productive tench and bream fishing from spring to autumn. Roach, rudd, perch and the other mixed coarse species add interest, while sections around Clapperbrook, Double Locks, Countess Wear and Swans Nest give anglers different areas to investigate.
A day ticket currently costs £15 and covers Exeter Canal, River Exe and River Culm only. It is valid for the booked date, while overnight fishing needs two day tickets, one for each day. Annual membership is also available, with permits running until 31 December of the current year. Check the current association rules before setting off, especially around seasons, access and specialist carp or pike requirements.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Exeter Canal FAQs
Where does Exeter Canal run?
It runs approximately 6 miles from Exeter Basin towards Turf Locks.
What does the £15 day ticket cover?
The current day ticket covers Exeter Canal, River Exe and River Culm only, and is valid only for the booked date.
Are there fixed daily opening hours?
No fixed daily opening hours are published. Access is governed by permits, seasons and association rules.
Can I get local advice on where to fish?
Yes. The association advises seeking local tackle-shop advice because fish location varies along the long canal.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Exeter Canal. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Exeter.
Do I need to bring food?
We haven't seen any food on site, so bring your own grub and drinks. A flask and a stove (where allowed) make a long day much better.
Are there toilets on site?
Not that we've seen listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off. Bring a barrow in case it's a walk.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
EX2 8DU.
How much is a ticket?
Day ticket: £15 per day; Annual adult membership: £75; Annual senior membership: £40; Annual registered-disabled membership: £40; Annual junior membership: £10. Prices last checked 2026-10-06 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Clapperbrook, Double Locks, Countess Wear, Lime Kilns, Swans Nest. Busy weekends can fill up, so ring ahead if you've got your heart set on a swim.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Clapperbrook (Not published), Double Locks (Not published), Countess Wear (Not published), Lime Kilns (Not published), Swans Nest (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
No — Overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
Can I bring my dog?
Not covered in the rules we've checked. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Are bait boats allowed?
We haven't seen a bait-boat rule listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need barbless hooks?
Most UK fisheries prefer barbless or micro-barbed hooks — ask on arrival if unsure.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Bring one either way — most fisheries expect it and the fish deserve it.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
The fishery lists some access is suitable for disabled anglers, including one area at the swing bridge.. Ring ahead to check which swims suit you.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Anglers' photos
Been to Exeter Canal? Share a snap
No angler photos yet. Be the first!
Day ticket · turn up
Clapperbrook: a popular exeter canal area with mixed-species potential.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel
Clapperbrook is one of the named popular fishing areas on Exeter Canal. As part of the long canal, it is worth treating location as the main challenge and keeping an open mind about which species are showing.
The canal holds everything from roach and perch to carp and pike, so a flexible approach makes sense here.
The canal is described as stocked with all species.
Lake photographs
A look around Clapperbrook
Exeter Canal
Clapperbrook
We’re checking the fishery’s Clapperbrook pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers happy to explore a mixed coarse canal.
- Pike, carp and general float or feeder anglers looking for variety.
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting guaranteed action from a short, easy-access session.
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Clapperbrook
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
Clapperbrook FAQs
What can I catch at Clapperbrook?
The wider canal has carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd and eel recorded.
Do I need a permit?
Yes. Fishing is managed by Exeter & District Angling Association, with day tickets and memberships available through its online booking system.
What's the lake record on Clapperbrook?
Going by what the fishery says: The canal is described as stocked with all species. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Clapperbrook?
carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel. The canal is described as stocked with all species.
How big is Clapperbrook and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A popular Exeter Canal area with mixed-species potential..
Which baits work well on Clapperbrook?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Clapperbrook further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Clapperbrook get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Clapperbrook?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Exeter Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Clapperbrook?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Clapperbrook on a day ticket?
Yes — Clapperbrook is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £15 per day; Annual adult membership £75; Annual senior membership £40; Annual registered-disabled membership £40; Annual junior membership £10 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Clapperbrook?
No — Overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
Who does Clapperbrook suit?
Good for: Anglers happy to explore a mixed coarse canal.; Pike, carp and general float or feeder anglers looking for variety.. Less suited to: Anyone wanting guaranteed action from a short, easy-access session..
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Double Locks: a well-known canal area with a broad mix of targets.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel
Double Locks is listed among the popular fishing areas on Exeter Canal. The six-mile venue means fish can move and conditions can vary, so local advice and a bit of watercraft are handy.
There is scope for both specimen hunting and everyday mixed fishing, depending on the time of year and what the fish are doing.
The canal is described as stocked with all species.
Lake photographs
A look around Double Locks
Exeter Canal
Double Locks
We’re checking the fishery’s Double Locks pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mobile anglers who like trying different areas.
- Those after a mixed bag with bigger-fish potential.
Maybe not for
- Anglers expecting a compact commercial-style water.
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Double Locks
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
Double Locks FAQs
Are carp present around Double Locks?
Carp are recorded in the canal and are reported to reach approximately 40lb or more.
Can I fish overnight?
Yes, but overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
What's the lake record on Double Locks?
Going by what the fishery says: The canal is described as stocked with all species. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Double Locks?
carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel. The canal is described as stocked with all species.
How big is Double Locks and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A well-known canal area with a broad mix of targets..
Which baits work well on Double Locks?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Double Locks further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Double Locks get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Double Locks?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Exeter Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Double Locks?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Double Locks on a day ticket?
Yes — Double Locks is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £15 per day; Annual adult membership £75; Annual senior membership £40; Annual registered-disabled membership £40; Annual junior membership £10 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Double Locks?
No — Overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
Who does Double Locks suit?
Good for: Mobile anglers who like trying different areas.; Those after a mixed bag with bigger-fish potential.. Less suited to: Anglers expecting a compact commercial-style water..
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Countess Wear: a popular section on a long, varied canal.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel
Countess Wear is another named popular fishing area on Exeter Canal. It forms part of a venue where fish location can vary along the length, so a word with a local tackle shop could save plenty of faff.
The canal’s mixed stock gives this area broad appeal, from smaller silver fish through to carp and specimen pike.
The canal is described as stocked with all species.
Lake photographs
A look around Countess Wear
Exeter Canal
Countess Wear
We’re checking the fishery’s Countess Wear pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers who enjoy searching out fish rather than sitting on a guaranteed peg.
- Mixed-species and predator anglers.
Maybe not for
- Those after fixed opening hours or a tightly managed day-ticket lake.
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Countess Wear
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Countess Wear FAQs
Is Countess Wear on the day ticket?
The advertised day ticket covers Exeter Canal, River Exe and River Culm only.
Is there specimen pike potential?
Yes. Pike over 30lb, or in the low 30s, are reported from the canal.
What's the lake record on Countess Wear?
Going by what the fishery says: The canal is described as stocked with all species. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Countess Wear?
carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel. The canal is described as stocked with all species.
How big is Countess Wear and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A popular section on a long, varied canal..
Which baits work well on Countess Wear?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Countess Wear further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Countess Wear get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Countess Wear?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Exeter Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Countess Wear?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Countess Wear on a day ticket?
Yes — Countess Wear is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £15 per day; Annual adult membership £75; Annual senior membership £40; Annual registered-disabled membership £40; Annual junior membership £10 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Countess Wear?
No — Overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
Who does Countess Wear suit?
Good for: Anglers who enjoy searching out fish rather than sitting on a guaranteed peg.; Mixed-species and predator anglers.. Less suited to: Those after fixed opening hours or a tightly managed day-ticket lake..
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Lime Kilns: the go-to named area for tench and bream from spring to autumn.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- tench, bream, carp, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel
Lime Kilns is specifically noted for productive tench and bream fishing from spring to autumn. That makes it a cracking option when you fancy a traditional coarse session and the weather is warming up.
It is also part of the wider Exeter Canal, so carp, pike, perch and other species remain in the mix. Remember that the access gate must be kept locked.
The canal is described as stocked with all species.
Lake photographs
A look around Lime Kilns
Exeter Canal
Lime Kilns
We’re checking the fishery’s Lime Kilns pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Tench and bream anglers fishing from spring to autumn.
- Float and feeder anglers after a proper mixed coarse session.
Maybe not for
- Anyone unwilling to sort the required gate-key and access arrangements.
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Lime Kilns
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Lime Kilns FAQs
When is Lime Kilns best for tench and bream?
The area is noted as productive from spring to autumn.
How do I get the Lime Kilns gate key?
A gate key can be obtained on production of a membership licence from Ascot Jewellers.
What's the lake record on Lime Kilns?
Going by what the fishery says: The canal is described as stocked with all species. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Lime Kilns?
tench, bream, carp, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel. The canal is described as stocked with all species.
How big is Lime Kilns and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The go-to named area for tench and bream from spring to autumn..
Which baits work well on Lime Kilns?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Lime Kilns further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Lime Kilns get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Lime Kilns?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Exeter Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Lime Kilns?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Lime Kilns on a day ticket?
Yes — Lime Kilns is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £15 per day; Annual adult membership £75; Annual senior membership £40; Annual registered-disabled membership £40; Annual junior membership £10 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Lime Kilns?
No — Overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
Who does Lime Kilns suit?
Good for: Tench and bream anglers fishing from spring to autumn.; Float and feeder anglers after a proper mixed coarse session.. Less suited to: Anyone unwilling to sort the required gate-key and access arrangements..
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Swans Nest: a popular exeter canal area with plenty of species in the wider water.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel
Swans Nest is listed as one of the popular fishing areas along Exeter Canal. With approximately 6 miles of water, the venue rewards anglers who pay attention to fish movement and changing conditions.
The mixed stock means you can target silver fish, tench and bream, or switch gears for carp and pike.
The canal is described as stocked with all species.
Lake photographs
A look around Swans Nest
Exeter Canal
Swans Nest
We’re checking the fishery’s Swans Nest pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Flexible anglers happy to change tactics.
- Those who enjoy exploring a long canal venue.
Maybe not for
- Anyone looking for published lake acreage or fixed daily opening hours.
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Swans Nest
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Swans Nest FAQs
What species are recorded in the canal?
Recorded species include carp, mirror carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, barbel, chub, dace and eel.
Can access suit disabled anglers?
Some access is suitable for disabled anglers, including one area at the swing bridge.
What's the lake record on Swans Nest?
Going by what the fishery says: The canal is described as stocked with all species. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Swans Nest?
carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, barbel, chub, rudd, eel. The canal is described as stocked with all species.
How big is Swans Nest and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A popular Exeter Canal area with plenty of species in the wider water..
Which baits work well on Swans Nest?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Swans Nest further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Swans Nest get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Swans Nest?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Exeter Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Swans Nest?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Swans Nest on a day ticket?
Yes — Swans Nest is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £15 per day; Annual adult membership £75; Annual senior membership £40; Annual registered-disabled membership £40; Annual junior membership £10 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Swans Nest?
No — Overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
Who does Swans Nest suit?
Good for: Flexible anglers happy to change tactics.; Those who enjoy exploring a long canal venue.. Less suited to: Anyone looking for published lake acreage or fixed daily opening hours..
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- Must
Do I need an Environment Agency rod licence?
A valid Environment Agency rod licence is required.
- Must
Do I need an E&DAA permit or day ticket?
Fishing is managed by Exeter & District Angling Association, with day tickets and memberships available through its online booking system.
- No
Can I fish overnight on one day ticket?
Overnight fishing requires two day tickets, one for each day.
- Must
Do pike anglers need specialist equipment?
Pike anglers must carry suitable unhooking equipment, a suitable landing net and a minimum 30lb wire trace.
- Must
Are there specialist carp and pike rules?
Carp and pike anglers must follow the association's specialist rules.
- Must
Must the Lime Kilns gate stay locked?
The Lime Kilns access gate must be kept locked.
- Seasonal
Is the coarse close season position straightforward?
Older venue information describes no general coarse-fishing close season, but the current day-ticket page limits canal day tickets to the coarse close season. Check the current association position before fishing.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 6 October 2026. Rules change — always check with the fishery before you go.
Tips & guides worth reading
How we'd fish each lake
Our own suggestions, worked out from each lake's features, its main fish and the venue rules. They're tried-and-tested methods, not reports from this venue, so watch the water and ask in the tackle shop on the day.
Clapperbrook
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
Double Locks
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
Countess Wear
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Lime Kilns
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Swans Nest
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Good background reading. Most of it is a few years old, so treat it as a starting point and ask on the day.
Videos linked by the fishery
What anglers reckon
7.2/10 from Tackle Index: The species mix is excellent, with reported carp to approximately 40lb or more and pike over 30lb.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Exeter Canal is a long, varied Devon water with proper specimen potential, including pike over 30lb and carp reported to 40lb or more. It can be a tricky old-school canal venue, but there are plenty of species and some cracking areas to explore.”
This is our own summary of recurring public feedback and the venue details we checked, not a copied customer review or a promise you’ll catch. Feedback changes, so we keep it separate from the Tackle Index score.
Angler score
What our readers rate Exeter Canal
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Exeter Canal here. Be the first and get the score started.