River Ouse – Red House

The lowdown

• There’s a proper length of bank here: over two miles, all on the right-hand side. Depth and width vary along the fishery, so don’t picture one samey run of water from end to end.
• The fishery has two sections for match bookings. The middle section runs from below the barge to the dead Big Tree — handy named landmarks when you’re getting your bearings rather than guessing where a section starts.
• Below that, the bottom section carries on from the Big Tree to Killingbeck. Check the match calendar before booking your day ticket; it’s a simple bit of planning that can save a faff.
• Bream are firmly on the menu, and YDAA suggests a groundbait feeder with caster or worm. That’s a useful, no-nonsense starting point if you fancy settling into a swim for a feeder session.
• Roach, perch and barbel are also named for Red House. Some swims produce occasional double-figure barbel — a cracking prospect, but keep that word ‘occasional’ in mind rather than expecting one every trip.
• Carp and tench turn up occasionally too. They’re part of the stretch’s mix, not something to build a guaranteed catch around. There’s plenty of variety in the named fish without adding anything to the list.
• The approach is via Red House Lane and the private estate road. Park on the grass triangle before Red House Manor’s entrance, then follow the signed permissive footpath to the river. Secure paddock gates behind you.
• Fancy staying after dark? Arrange it with the Waters Secretary first; members must submit details at least 24 hours ahead. No platforms, disabled access or toilets are listed, so bear that in mind when planning your session.

Methods: For bream, the suggested approach is a groundbait feeder with caster or worm — a bob-on starting point. With depth and width varying along the stretch, take your chosen swim into account rather than treating the whole bank alike.

Access & tickets

Buy a day ticket online from YDAA using an email address and PayPal, or through a YDAA sales outlet. For online purchases, keep the emailed ticket handy on your mobile or bring a printout.

Fish the club names

bream, roach, perch, barbel, carp, tench

Key rules

• Online ticket holders must carry their emailed ticket, either digitally or printed.
• Arrange night fishing with the Waters Secretary beforehand; members must submit details at least 24 hours ahead, and junior members may not night fish.
• Secure paddock gates after passing through.
• Fish livebaiting is prohibited.
• Fish must not be killed or removed without committee permission.
• Leave no litter and light no fires.
• Dogs are prohibited except assistance dogs and specified bailiff exceptions.

River level

Where it is