Aqueduct Fishery — River Lea at Aqueduct Lock, Turnford

River level

The lowdown

• This is a proper tucked-away fishery near Turnford, with the association describing it as very isolated. Lovely if you fancy getting away from the crowds, but it’s not a stroll-from-the-car job.
• The stretch runs for roughly 300 yards and is split between the Old River Lea and the Lee Navigation. So there’s a bit of variety, rather than one steady run of identical river.
• The Old River Lea comes downstream from King’s Weir. That’s the bit for the main target fish: barbel and large chub, with some cracking sport possible when conditions line up.
• Trout turn up occasionally over the gravel beds. Worth keeping in mind when the water’s carrying a bit of colour or you’re working a bait through likely gravelly water.
• Deeper swims can produce good bags of silverfish. A nice option when the bigger fish aren’t playing ball, and a handy way to keep the session ticking over.
• The navigation section has three fishing swims. It’s a smaller, more defined choice than the natural river, so have a proper look before settling in.
• The association says the fishing is difficult. Expect to put a bit of thought into location, presentation and timing rather than just piling in and hoping a barbel wanders past.
• A regular fishery keeper may be able to point you towards barbel or chub. That local steer could save a fair bit of faff on an unfamiliar stretch.
• The opposite bank has shared fishing rights and is popular with anglers, although some swims there are reserved for private fishing. Check exactly where your rights apply before setting up.
• Parking is nearly a mile away, and no official parking postcode is published on the fishery page. Pack light, plan the walk and don’t bank on pulling up beside the swim.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: For the Old River Lea, keep things simple and mobile: trot or feeder the deeper swims and likely barbel and chub lines. On the navigation, fish the three swims carefully and pay close attention to depth and flow.

Access & tickets

You’ll need London Anglers’ Association membership to fish Roxton A; the holder’s handbook lists no day tickets here. Check with the association for the current membership price and joining arrangements.

Fish the club names

barbel, chub, trout, roach, bream

Key rules

• All visitors must hold London Anglers’ Association membership.
• Membership holders must agree to the association’s rules.
• Anglers must obtain their own Environment Agency rod licence.
• Check bank access carefully: the opposite bank has shared rights, with some swims reserved for private fishing.

Where it is