Yalding to Wateringbury

River level

The lowdown

• The top end starts as an extended lock cut. It can really come into its own when the Medway is flooded, offering a more modified bit of water to get stuck into.
• After a couple of hundred yards, the natural river channel begins. The Medway flows in from the opposite bank at this transition, making it a feature worth having a proper look at.
• Downstream, the stretch opens into miles of natural bank. The club reckons this is one for the more adventurous angler, with access less straightforward than at its Barming water.
• It’s described as relatively under-fished and could do with more anglers. That’s always a cheeky little bonus on a long river stretch.
• There’s access near Nettlestead church. Park in the lay-by, then follow the footpath down to the river.
• The Nettlestead church entrance has stiles, so leave the fishing trolley at home. It isn’t suitable for wheeling kit through.
• The nearest parking is in lay-bys that were formerly entrances to the chemical works. Yalding railway station is another option, followed by a short walk to the river.
• The water is a mixture of lock-cut fishing and long, natural riverbank fishing. Pick the character of the swim to suit your approach rather than charging straight in.
• Members can fish the Medway at night without a separate night-fishing permit. Day-ticket anglers need to sort their ticket before setting off, as tickets aren’t sold on the bank.

Methods: The lock cut is the obvious place to look when the river is up, while the natural channel and long banks suit anglers happy to explore. Match your approach to the flow and features, with the crease at the lock-cut transition worth a careful look.

Access & tickets

Day tickets must be purchased in advance and are not available on the bank. They can also be obtained from Maidstone Angling in Sandling Road, Maidstone.

Fish the club names

The club doesn't list species for this stretch, so we haven't guessed.

Key rules

• Carry proof of membership or a valid ticket, plus an Environment Agency rod licence.
• Catch and release applies. Do not remove fish from Society waters without written permission, subject to the club’s stated exceptions.
• Live fish, eels, game fish and dead coarse fish are prohibited as bait.
• Marine dead baits and artificial lures are permitted.
• Bait boats are prohibited.
• Use no more than 2kg of bait per 24-hour session.
• Rods must not be left unattended.
• No alcohol or illegal drugs are permitted on Society waters.

Where it is