Cromwell C1 — Weir stretch, 700m+ downstream from Cromwell Lock

River level

The lowdown

• C1 starts right at the entrance to Cromwell Lock, with the upstream weir pegs dropping seriously deep close in. Don’t assume it’s shallow just because you’re fishing under your feet.
• The stretch is tidal, and river levels can rise and fall dramatically. Get accurate tide information from the lock keeper before setting up. It can make a big difference to how the swim fishes.
• The upper weir section has steep banks in places. Some pegs have been improved with steps and bivvy areas, but this isn’t the easiest venue for elderly or infirm anglers.
• There are occasional snags, although the club describes the stretch as generally clear. Still, fish with your eyes open and don’t go charging tackle straight through the crease.
• Barbel and carp are principal species here. The wider Cromwell sections have produced barbel approaching 20lb, while chub over 7lb have also been reported.
• Pike and large zander add a proper winter angle, with the zander particularly noted in the cooler months. Roach, bream and other species are also listed for Cromwell.
• Night fishing is available, but bivvying or camping in the grass fields behind the stretch is banned. If you’re bivvying, it must be on the actual river bank.
• Use the car parks at either end. Parking is limited, and wet-weather vehicles must stay off the grass. Take the access lane slowly — dog walkers use it and the speed bumps are steep.
• Some cracking sessions will suit feeder or ledger gear, especially when the water has a bit of colour. For barbel, keep an eye on the flow and fish tight to features rather than spreading bait everywhere.

Methods: Feeder and ledger approaches look the natural starting point for barbel, carp and chub, with the deep weir pegs offering a cheeky close-in option. Pike and zander give you a cooler-month angle, while the tidal flow means timing around the river level is bob on.

Access & tickets

Day tickets at Stoke Bardolph are for the Road Stretch only; the rest of the club's Stoke water is members-only.

Fish the club names

carp, barbel, chub, pike, zander, roach, bream

Key rules

• Obtain accurate tide information from the lock keeper before fishing.
• Bivvying or camping in the grass fields behind the stretch is prohibited.
• Bivvying must be on the actual river bank.
• Take all litter home or use the wheelie bins at the lock keeper's car park.
• Leave the lock toilet facilities clean after use.
• Lock toilet facilities may only be used by members with British Waterways keys.
• Members must carry current membership identification and rod licences when fishing club waters.

Where it is