Fishery guide · Lincolnshire
Fossdyke Navigation
Fossdyke Navigation is a proper long-distance canal fishery running from Torksey Lock to University Bridge in Lincoln. It’s a handy £5 day-ticket venue for match, predator and pleasure anglers, with plenty of water to explore.
“7.6/10 — A long canal with bream, carp, perch, pike, rudd, eel and several other published species gives plenty to go at.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Fossdyke Navigation is a proper long canal fishery managed by Lincoln & District Angling Association. It runs from Torksey Lock right through to University Bridge in Lincoln, linking the River Trent at Torksey with the city. This isn’t a neat little commercial lake with everything in one compact bowl. It’s a navigation, so choosing your stretch is a big part of the day.
- 6 lakes: Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course, Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch, Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice, Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers, Drinsey Nook, Torksey 72-hour moorings
- Fish: carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel
- Tickets from: Day ticket — £5
- Find it: Lincoln · LN1 2BE
Plan your session
Fishery map of Fossdyke Navigation
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
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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
Photos courtesy of Oliver Mills. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Fossdyke Navigation
Fossdyke Navigation is a proper long canal fishery managed by Lincoln & District Angling Association. It runs from Torksey Lock right through to University Bridge in Lincoln, linking the River Trent at Torksey with the city. This isn’t a neat little commercial lake with everything in one compact bowl. It’s a navigation, so choosing your stretch is a big part of the day.
The water gets plenty of attention from match anglers, but pleasure anglers and predator anglers use it too. Published species include bream, carp, dace, eel, gudgeon, perch, pike, rudd and ruffe. The association also notes occasional carp angling. That gives you a decent spread of options, whether you fancy a float session, a bit of feeder work or a day looking for perch and pike.
For a general starting point, the suggested areas include the golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course, plus Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch. Saxilby Village and the bridge section behind Saxilby Spice are also on the list, as is the roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers. Further along, Drinsey Nook and the Torksey 72-hour moorings give you more water to consider.
As with any long navigation, don’t just rock up and plonk in the first swim you see. Have a look at the stretch, watch what the boats are doing and check for likely holding areas before setting up. A few minutes looking can save a proper faff later. Parking isn’t specified centrally because the fishery is extensive, so sort suitable parking for the particular stretch you’re targeting. Avoid summer and permanent boat moorings as well.
The £5 day ticket is valid from dawn to dusk and can be bought online through the association’s Clubmate booking system. It also covers the River Till, River Witham and Hartsholme Park, which is cracking value if you fancy keeping your options open. Annual adult membership is £50, concessionary membership is £35, junior membership for ages 13–16 is £10, and infant membership for ages 0–12 is free. Membership runs for one year from purchase and must be renewed before fishing.
There are a few important bits to get bob on before you go. The coarse-fishing close season runs from 15 March through 15 June inclusive, and no night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke, so plan around the published dawn-to-dusk day-ticket hours. Bring a suitable landing net and disgorger or unhooking tool, and return every fish alive unless you have prior written committee permission to remove it. Live bait, bloodworm, joker and whole tiger nuts are prohibited, while open fires are banned and barbecues must be raised off the ground. You’ll also need a current Environment Agency rod licence, and anglers under 16 must be supervised by a responsible adult aged 17 or over.
Straight from anglers online
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Fossdyke Navigation FAQs
Where does the Fossdyke Navigation fishery run?
From Torksey Lock to University Bridge in Lincoln, linking the River Trent at Torksey with Lincoln.
How much is a day ticket?
£5. It’s valid from dawn to dusk and also covers the River Till, River Witham and Hartsholme Park.
How do I buy a day ticket?
Online through Lincoln & District Angling Association’s Clubmate booking system.
What sort of fishing suits the Fossdyke?
It’s popular with match anglers, predator anglers and pleasure anglers, with occasional carp angling also noted.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Fossdyke Navigation. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Lincoln.
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?
Yes — suitable parking to be arranged for each individual stretch. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
LN1 2BE.
How much is a ticket?
Day ticket: £5; Annual adult membership: £50; Annual concessionary membership: £35; Annual junior membership, ages 13–16: £10; Infant membership, ages 0–12: £0. 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 Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course, Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch, Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice, Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers, Drinsey Nook, Torksey 72-hour moorings. 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, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
6 — Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course (Not published), Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch (Not published), Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice (Not published), Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers (Not published), Drinsey Nook (Not published), Torksey 72-hour moorings (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
No — No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
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?
No — Fishing is not permitted from unmoored watercraft.
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?
We haven't seen disabled access listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
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
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Day ticket · turn up
Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course: a suggested fossdyke stretch behind carholme golf course.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel
This is one of the association’s suggested areas on the Fossdyke. It forms part of the long navigation rather than being a separate lake.
As with the rest of the canal, it suits anglers happy to read the water and choose a productive peg.
Lake photographs
A look around Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course
Fossdyke Navigation
Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course
We’re checking the fishery’s Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Match and pleasure anglers wanting a recognised stretch
- Predator anglers targeting pike or perch
Maybe not for
- Anglers after a compact commercial-style lake with fixed facilities
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course
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
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the features and a busy bottom, a solid bag keeps the hook point masked on the drop and sat neatly in a little pile of bait however rough the lakebed is.
- Tie a short, stiff hooklink (4–6in) so it packs into the bag without kinking.
- Fill the bag with a damp crumb mix and pack it tight — loose bags spill on the cast.
- Nick a wafter or small pop-up on the hair so it settles over the mix, not under it.
- Cast a few yards short of the feature, recast every couple of hours with a fresh bag.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course FAQs
Is this a separate lake?
No. It is a named suggested stretch of the Fossdyke Navigation.
Can I fish it on a day ticket?
Yes, the Fossdyke is covered by the £5 day ticket, valid from dawn to dusk.
What's the lake record on Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course?
carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel.
How big is Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A suggested Fossdyke stretch behind Carholme Golf Course..
Which baits work well on Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course 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: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course 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 Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course?
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 Fossdyke Navigation before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course?
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 Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course on a day ticket?
Yes — Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £5; Annual adult membership £50; Annual concessionary membership £35; Annual junior membership, ages 13–16 £10; Infant membership, ages 0–12 £0 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course?
No — No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
Who does Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course suit?
Good for: Match and pleasure anglers wanting a recognised stretch; Predator anglers targeting pike or perch. Less suited to: Anglers after a compact commercial-style lake with fixed facilities.
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
Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch: three suggested stretches grouped along the fossdyke.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel
Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch are all listed as suggested areas by the association.
They give anglers more choice along the navigation, whether you’re after a match-style session, general pleasure fishing or a predator wander.
Lake photographs
A look around Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch
Fossdyke Navigation
Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch
We’re checking the fishery’s Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers who like moving between canal stretches
- Pleasure and predator anglers
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting published lake dimensions or a fixed swim plan
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch
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.
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.
pike
Static deadbaits for the pike
A smelly deadbait on the bottom near drop-offs or reed lines is the classic, reliable way to find a lake's pike, especially in the colder months.
- Sardine, smelt or mackerel on a wire trace with semi-barbless trebles.
- Strike early — never let a pike run off with the bait.
- Have a long forceps, unhooking mat and big net ready before you cast.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch FAQs
Are sizes published for these stretches?
No. Individual lake sizes aren’t published because this is a navigation canal.
Is night fishing advertised here?
No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
What's the lake record on Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch?
carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel.
How big is Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Three suggested stretches grouped along the Fossdyke..
Which baits work well on Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch 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: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch 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 Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch?
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 Fossdyke Navigation before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch?
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 Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch on a day ticket?
Yes — Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £5; Annual adult membership £50; Annual concessionary membership £35; Annual junior membership, ages 13–16 £10; Infant membership, ages 0–12 £0 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Who does Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch suit?
Good for: Anglers who like moving between canal stretches; Pleasure and predator anglers. Less suited to: Anyone wanting published lake dimensions or a fixed swim plan.
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
Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice: a saxilby-area section with village and bridge access points mentioned.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel
The association highlights Saxilby Village and the bridge section behind Saxilby Spice as suggested areas.
It’s another useful option on the long Fossdyke, with the same canal rules and dawn-to-dusk day-ticket access applying.
Lake photographs
A look around Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice
Fossdyke Navigation
Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice
We’re checking the fishery’s Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers exploring the Saxilby area
- Match and general pleasure anglers
Maybe not for
- Anglers looking for advertised 24-hour access
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice FAQs
Can I fish from an unmoored boat here?
No. Fishing from unmoored boats, kayaks or other unmoored watercraft is not permitted.
Do I need an EA rod licence?
Yes. A current Environment Agency rod licence is required as well as the club ticket or membership.
What's the lake record on Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice?
carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel.
How big is Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A Saxilby-area section with village and bridge access points mentioned..
Which baits work well on Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice 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: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice 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 Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice?
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 Fossdyke Navigation before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice?
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 Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice on a day ticket?
Yes — Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £5; Annual adult membership £50; Annual concessionary membership £35; Annual junior membership, ages 13–16 £10; Infant membership, ages 0–12 £0 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice?
No — No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
Who does Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice suit?
Good for: Anglers exploring the Saxilby area; Match and general pleasure anglers. Less suited to: Anglers looking for advertised 24-hour access.
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
Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers: a roadside fossdyke stretch near lovell land rovers.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel
This roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers is one of the suggested areas on the Fossdyke.
Parking isn’t centrally specified for the fishery, so check that your chosen parking spot is suitable for this particular stretch.
Lake photographs
A look around Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers
Fossdyke Navigation
Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers
We’re checking the fishery’s Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers wanting another easy-to-identify stretch
- Shorter pleasure or predator sessions
Maybe not for
- Anglers expecting centrally managed parking
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers FAQs
Is parking provided?
Parking is not specified centrally. Use suitable parking for the stretch you choose.
Are open fires allowed?
No. Open fires are prohibited, and barbecues must be raised off the ground.
What's the lake record on Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers?
carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel.
How big is Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A roadside Fossdyke stretch near Lovell Land Rovers..
Which baits work well on Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers 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: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers 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 Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers?
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 Fossdyke Navigation before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers?
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 Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers on a day ticket?
Yes — Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £5; Annual adult membership £50; Annual concessionary membership £35; Annual junior membership, ages 13–16 £10; Infant membership, ages 0–12 £0 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers?
No — No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
Who does Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers suit?
Good for: Anglers wanting another easy-to-identify stretch; Shorter pleasure or predator sessions. Less suited to: Anglers expecting centrally managed parking.
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
Drinsey Nook: a named suggested area towards the torksey end of the navigation.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel
Drinsey Nook is listed among the association’s suggested areas on the Fossdyke.
It’s part of the wider canal fishery connecting Lincoln with Torksey, so expect a venue where watercraft and changing conditions are part of the challenge.
Lake photographs
A look around Drinsey Nook
Fossdyke Navigation
Drinsey Nook
We’re checking the fishery’s Drinsey Nook pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Exploratory pleasure anglers
- Predator anglers
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting a fully enclosed, boat-free lake
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Drinsey Nook
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
Drinsey Nook FAQs
Can I fish during the close season?
No. Fishing is closed from 15 March through 15 June inclusive.
Do all fish need to be returned?
Yes, unless prior written committee permission allows removal.
What's the lake record on Drinsey Nook?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Drinsey Nook that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Drinsey Nook?
carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel.
How big is Drinsey Nook and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A named suggested area towards the Torksey end of the navigation..
Which baits work well on Drinsey Nook?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Drinsey Nook 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: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Drinsey Nook 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 Drinsey Nook?
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 Fossdyke Navigation before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Drinsey Nook?
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 Drinsey Nook on a day ticket?
Yes — Drinsey Nook is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £5; Annual adult membership £50; Annual concessionary membership £35; Annual junior membership, ages 13–16 £10; Infant membership, ages 0–12 £0 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Drinsey Nook?
No — No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
Who does Drinsey Nook suit?
Good for: Exploratory pleasure anglers; Predator anglers. Less suited to: Anglers wanting a fully enclosed, boat-free 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
Torksey 72-hour moorings: a torksey-end stretch beside the 72-hour moorings.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel
The Torksey 72-hour moorings are one of the suggested areas on the Fossdyke, close to the canal’s connection with the River Trent.
Avoid summer and permanent boat moorings, and remember that no fishing is allowed from unmoored watercraft.
Lake photographs
A look around Torksey 72-hour moorings
Fossdyke Navigation
Torksey 72-hour moorings
We’re checking the fishery’s Torksey 72-hour moorings pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers exploring the Torksey end
- Predator and pleasure anglers
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting guaranteed quiet water away from navigation activity
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Torksey 72-hour moorings
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
Torksey 72-hour moorings FAQs
Is this 24-hour fishing?
No. The published day-ticket hours are dawn to dusk.
Can under-16s fish alone?
No. Anglers under 16 must be supervised by a responsible adult aged 17 or over.
What's the lake record on Torksey 72-hour moorings?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Torksey 72-hour moorings that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Torksey 72-hour moorings?
carp, bream, pike, perch, rudd, eel.
How big is Torksey 72-hour moorings and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A Torksey-end stretch beside the 72-hour moorings..
Which baits work well on Torksey 72-hour moorings?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Torksey 72-hour moorings 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: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Torksey 72-hour moorings 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 Torksey 72-hour moorings?
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 Fossdyke Navigation before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Torksey 72-hour moorings?
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 Torksey 72-hour moorings on a day ticket?
Yes — Torksey 72-hour moorings is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £5; Annual adult membership £50; Annual concessionary membership £35; Annual junior membership, ages 13–16 £10; Infant membership, ages 0–12 £0 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Torksey 72-hour moorings?
No — No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
Who does Torksey 72-hour moorings suit?
Good for: Anglers exploring the Torksey end; Predator and pleasure anglers. Less suited to: Anglers wanting guaranteed quiet water away from navigation activity.
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
Is the coarse-fishing close season applied?
Fishing is closed from 15 March through 15 June inclusive.
- Must
Do I need an Environment Agency rod licence?
A current EA rod licence is required in addition to the club ticket or membership.
- Must
Must fish be returned alive?
All fish must be returned alive unless prior written committee permission allows removal.
- No
Can I use live bait, bloodworm, joker or whole tiger nuts?
All are prohibited.
- No
Can I fish from an unmoored boat, kayak or other unmoored watercraft?
Fishing is not permitted from unmoored watercraft.
- No
Can I light an open fire?
Open fires are prohibited. Barbecues must be raised off the ground.
- No
Can under-16s fish without supervision?
They must be supervised by a responsible adult aged 17 or over.
- No
Is night fishing available?
No night fishing is advertised for the Fossdyke.
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.
Golf-course stretch behind Carholme Golf Course
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
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the features and a busy bottom, a solid bag keeps the hook point masked on the drop and sat neatly in a little pile of bait however rough the lakebed is.
- Tie a short, stiff hooklink (4–6in) so it packs into the bag without kinking.
- Fill the bag with a damp crumb mix and pack it tight — loose bags spill on the cast.
- Nick a wafter or small pop-up on the hair so it settles over the mix, not under it.
- Cast a few yards short of the feature, recast every couple of hours with a fresh bag.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
Woodcocks, Colbournes and the Fertiliser stretch
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.
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.
pike
Static deadbaits for the pike
A smelly deadbait on the bottom near drop-offs or reed lines is the classic, reliable way to find a lake's pike, especially in the colder months.
- Sardine, smelt or mackerel on a wire trace with semi-barbless trebles.
- Strike early — never let a pike run off with the bait.
- Have a long forceps, unhooking mat and big net ready before you cast.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Saxilby Village and bridge section behind Saxilby Spice
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Roadside section near Lovell Land Rovers
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Drinsey Nook
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
Torksey 72-hour moorings
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.
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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
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
7.6/10 from Tackle Index: A long canal with bream, carp, perch, pike, rudd, eel and several other published species gives plenty to go at.
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 — “Fossdyke Navigation is a proper long-distance canal fishery running from Torksey Lock to University Bridge in Lincoln. It’s a handy £5 day-ticket venue for match, predator and pleasure anglers, with plenty of water 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 Fossdyke Navigation
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