Shillingstone (Haywards Bridge)

The lowdown

• Haywards Bridge marks the upstream end, with the stretch winding down to a footbridge after three fields. Plenty of water to explore without it feeling like a tiny postage stamp.
• The north bank is the one to fish. Access means walking over the bridge and climbing over the fence, so pack light and keep the faff to a minimum.
• There’s a good mix of river character here. Deep, slow sections should suit a patient feeder or float approach, while the shallower reeds offer a bit more visual fishing.
• Several areas have been kept natural for stalking anglers. Those quieter-looking margins are well worth a careful look before charging in — proper sneaky stuff.
• Chub, dace, eel, grayling, gudgeon, perch, pike and roach are named for the stretch. A nice broad mix, with plenty to keep both float and lure-minded anglers interested.
• The season runs from 16 June to 14 March inclusive. That gives you the usual summer-to-early-spring window, with conditions likely to change plenty as the Stour gains colour and pace.
• Parking is available beside the gate after turning towards Child Okeford. There’s more beside the pumping station around 30 metres farther on, plus a lay-by about 50 metres over the bridge on the left.
• There’s also a free car park before passing under the Trailway. Leave gates as found, don’t disturb livestock, and remember that camping isn’t allowed.
• The river sits in rural Dorset countryside near the North Dorset Trailway, with Shillingstone the nearest village. Read the members handbook before fishing, as it contains the detailed rules.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Try a careful float or feeder line through the deeper, slower water, then switch gears and stalk the shallow reeds and natural cover. Keep mobile, watch the crease, and make the most of those quieter-looking swims.

Access & tickets

This is society-member water run by Dorchester & District Angling Society. The society’s wider ticket information describes exchange-book and guest-ticket arrangements, but no day-ticket price is listed for this stretch.

Fish the club names

chub, eel, perch, pike, roach

Key rules

• Fishing is on the north bank only.
• The fishing season is 16 June to 14 March inclusive.
• No camping is allowed.
• Gates must be left as found.
• Avoid disturbing livestock.
• Read the society members handbook for detailed information.

River level

Where it is