Kings Weir Weir Pool

River level

The lowdown

• This is a proper River Lea weir pool, so expect a bit of push in the water and varied depths rather than a flat, sleepy pond.
• There are nine marked swims altogether. Six sit on the west, or house, side of the pool, with three more across on the east bank.
• The venue is renowned for specimen barbel, chub and bream. Barbel over 19lb have been reported, which is a serious bit of kit.
• Chub over 6lb are described as not uncommon, with the fishery record stated as over 9lb. That’s enough to make a big bait look very tempting.
• The pool also holds double-figure pike and bream, plus perch over 4lb. Roach and dace have been recolonising in recent seasons, adding a bit more variety to the sport.
• Approach-wise, this is the sort of place where feeder work and careful presentation around the flow and crease should come into their own. Trotting may suit the more obliging silverfish when conditions allow.
• Crayfish are present in the river, so keep an eye on bait and tackle. The weir-affected character means water levels and flow will be key to finding the calmer edges and comfortable feeding spots.
• You must fish from the clearly defined swims. No wandering off to make your own peg, and no wading — the pool is fished from the bank.
• It’s a noted specimen-fishing location near Turnford, Wormley and Nazeing. A cracking option if you fancy a focused day after Lea lumps rather than a casual chuck.
• The pool allows two rods, and every fish must be returned as soon as possible. Bring proper fish-care gear — the landing net and unhooking-mat rules are not optional.

Methods: The flowing, weir-affected water should suit feeder fishing and careful work around the crease, while trotting could be worth a go for the roach, dace and other silverfish when the flow behaves. For the bigger stuff, fish with specimen-barbel and chub presentation in mind.

Access & tickets

The weir pool is the day-ticket section of Kings Weir Fishery. The official price page lists a day ticket at £18, with a full weir-pool booking listed at £110.

Fish the club names

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

Key rules

• Fish only from the clearly defined swims; wading and swimming are prohibited.
• A minimum 42-inch landing net and an unhooking mat of at least 100cm are required.
• All fish must be returned as soon as possible.
• Fixed-lead systems and lead core are prohibited.
• Nut products are prohibited.
• Dogs are prohibited, and bankside vegetation must not be damaged or removed.
• Keep the car-park gate closed.
• Two rods are permitted. Report catches by email with photographs.

Where it is