Weir and Capps Field — River Trent Dyke, Newark

The lowdown

• This is a natural, unpegged bit of river, not a line of numbered swims. The Federation puts that down to the runs and weed beds — proper features to weigh up when choosing your spot.
• Most of the stretch is shallow, but occasional deeper pools break things up. That contrast is the main thing to keep in mind: don’t picture one long, uniform depth from bridge to bridge.
• There’s a weir pool in the mix too. Alongside the shallows, natural runs and weed beds, it gives this fairly short stretch plenty of different water to look over before settling in.
• Barbel and chub are the main named fish, with occasional carp also listed. The Federation reports regular double-figure barbel captures here, so there’s a proper specimen angle without needing to dress it up.
• You’ve got approximately 600 metres to work with. From the field entrance, the fishing extends downstream to the next bridge — a useful boundary to get straight before you start lugging tackle about.
• For the approach, head from Mill Gate into Mill Lane. Cross the bridge and park on the left beside the Dyke, then walk upstream across the long stone bridge. Nearly there.
• Turn right by the green fence to enter the field. The listed grid reference is SK 79287 53707, handy for sorting the location before setting off and saving yourself a bit of faff.
• Keep this one strictly daytime: night fishing is prohibited, and an overnight bivvy stay for a dawn start isn’t allowed either. The river close season also applies, from 15 March through 15 June.

Methods: Let the natural runs, weed beds and changes in depth guide your swim choice rather than hunting for a numbered peg. If you’re tackling those specimen barbel, an unhooking mat is compulsory; two rods at once is the limit.

Access & tickets

Full and Associate Members can fish here, and visitors can buy a day ticket online or on the bank. For online purchases, your order receipt is your ticket — show it on your phone or bring a paper copy.

Fish the club names

barbel, chub, carp

Key rules

• Carry a current fishing licence and the appropriate ticket. Day tickets cover dawn to dusk.
• No fishing during the river close season, 15 March through 15 June.
• No night fishing or overnight stays, including bivvying up for a dawn start.
• Use no more than two rods simultaneously, and never leave rods unattended while cast into the water.
• Multi-hook rigs are prohibited. No livebaiting for predatory fish; dead or artificial bait is permitted.
• Do not remove fish or introduce fish.
• Unhooking mats are compulsory for specimen anglers.
• Keep footpaths and bridleways clear of vehicles and tackle.

River level

Where it is