Fishery guide · Warwickshire
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
PERLS Angling Club’s Lapworth Section C offers season-ticket canal fishing, match stretches and the separate Lapworth Top Pound. It’s £25 for the season ticket, but buy ahead and check your pegs carefully — day tickets have gone and some lengths are restricted.
“6.5/10 — The listed mixed coarse species and dedicated match sections give this a useful angling offering, without any basis for promising catches or big fish.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Fancy a canal session around Lapworth? This is PERLS Angling Club’s Lapworth Section C on the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal, with the managed stretch running from Bridge 38 to Lock 2. There’s also the separate, off-line Lapworth Top Pound. Think club-controlled canal fishing rather than a turn-up-and-pay commercial: getting the right ticket and knowing which bit you can fish are the two big jobs before tackling up.
- 5 lakes: Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2, Lapworth Top Pound, Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69, Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5, Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5
- Fish: roach, perch, bream, tench, carp, pike
- Tickets from: Season ticket covering the listed Stratford and Grand Union stretches — £25
- Find it: Lapworth · B94 5RB
Plan your session
Fishery map of Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
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
Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Trilobite at English Wikipedia. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Anglers' photos
Been to Stratford-upon-Avon Canal? Share a snap
No angler photos yet. Be the first!
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
Fancy a canal session around Lapworth? This is PERLS Angling Club’s Lapworth Section C on the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal, with the managed stretch running from Bridge 38 to Lock 2. There’s also the separate, off-line Lapworth Top Pound. Think club-controlled canal fishing rather than a turn-up-and-pay commercial: getting the right ticket and knowing which bit you can fish are the two big jobs before tackling up.
The season ticket is £25 and covers the listed Stratford and Grand Union stretches, with the latter running between bridges 67 and 69. That gives you more than one length to consider under the same ticket. Day tickets ceased on 1 April 2026, though, so don’t head down expecting to hand over a few quid on the bank. Season tickets must be bought in advance from Blythe Waters Fishery, Hampton Road, Knowle, B93 0NU.
For the fishing itself, Peglore lists roach, perch, bream, tench, carp and pike for the Lapworth listing. That’s a mixed coarse-fishing line-up, rather than a venue described purely around carp and chasing a PB. There aren’t any checked fish weights or stocking figures to hang big promises on. Nor is that species list a peg-by-peg guarantee: the canal sections and separate pool shouldn’t automatically be treated as having identical fishing.
Match anglers have some properly useful numbers to work with. Bridge 31 to Lock 5 has 40 match pegs, while Top Pound has 17 pegs and a recommended maximum match size of 15. Canal match bookings cost £3 per peg, with a minimum of 10 pegs, and Richard Ray is the match-booking contact. Lock 2 to Lock 5 is match-only, so that particular length isn’t somewhere to settle in for a cheeky pleasure session.
The boundaries need a bit of care. The club lists fishing exclusions between locks 12–13 and locks 6–15, so confirm permitted pegs rather than assuming the whole managed stretch is fair game. Canal & River Trust also prohibits fishing inside lock chambers or within 25 metres of lock approaches. Hook rules are straightforward: barbless or pinched-down barbs, small singles, and trebles restricted to predator fishing. Wet hands and careful returns matter just as much.
For finding your way, the club lists B94 5RB, but the coordinates mark Lapworth Junction rather than a dedicated fishery entrance. Peglore reports no towpath toilets and accessibility that varies with the access point, so plan around your needs before lugging the kit down. Daily hours and season-ticket start and end dates aren’t published on the permit page, and night fishing needs checking with the club. For permit questions, Trevor Bowcott is with the fishery — worth a call to save a wasted journey.
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.
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal FAQs
Where do I buy the season ticket?
Buy it in advance from Blythe Waters Fishery, Hampton Road, Knowle, B93 0NU. Permit enquiries go to Trevor Bowcott with the fishery.
What postcode should I use?
The club lists B94 5RB. The coordinates mark Lapworth Junction, not a dedicated fishery entrance, so check your intended access point separately.
Are there toilets and accessible pegs?
Peglore reports no towpath toilets and variable accessibility depending on the access point. Check the approach to your intended section before travelling.
What are the opening hours and season dates?
Daily opening hours and season-ticket start and end dates aren’t published on the permit page. Ask the club before making firm plans.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Stratford-upon-Avon Canal. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Lapworth.
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.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off. Bring a barrow in case it's a walk.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
B94 5RB.
How much is a ticket?
Season ticket covering the listed Stratford and Grand Union stretches: £25; Canal match bookings, minimum 10 pegs: £3 per peg. Prices last checked 2026-10-03 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Some lakes need booking ahead. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find roach, perch, bream, tench, carp, pike. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 (Not published), Lapworth Top Pound (Not published), Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 (Not published), Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 (Not published), Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
It depends — Permission is unconfirmed. Check with the managing club before planning a night session.
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?
We haven't seen a bait-boat rule listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need barbless hooks?
Yes, it's required — Barbless hooks are required; pinched-down barbs are acceptable.
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.
Pre-book only
Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2: the main managed canal length — check the restricted bits
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- roach, perch, bream, tench, carp, pike
PERLS manages the Stratford Canal from Bridge 38 to Lock 2. Peglore lists roach, perch, bream, tench, carp and pike for the Lapworth fishery listing, without breaking those species down by individual section.
This is the overall managed length, not an uninterrupted run of pleasure-fishing pegs. Match-only water and the club’s lock-area exclusions sit within the picture, so get your intended peg confirmed before setting up.
Lake photographs
A look around Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2
We’re checking the fishery’s Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Season-ticket canal anglers
- Anglers interested in mixed coarse species
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a day ticket
- Anglers expecting unrestricted access along the whole length
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2
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.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
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.
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.
Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 FAQs
Can I buy a ticket on the bank?
No. Season tickets must be purchased in advance from Blythe Waters Fishery.
Can I pleasure fish anywhere between Bridge 38 and Lock 2?
No. Lock 2 to Lock 5 is match-only, and the club lists further lock-area exclusions. Confirm permitted pegs before going.
What's the lake record on Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 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 Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2?
roach, perch, bream, tench, carp, pike.
How big is Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The main managed canal length — check the restricted bits.
Which baits work well on Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 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 Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2?
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 Stratford-upon-Avon Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2?
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 Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2?
It depends — Permission is unconfirmed. Check with the managing club before planning a night session.
Who does Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2 suit?
Good for: Season-ticket canal anglers; Anglers interested in mixed coarse species. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a day ticket; Anglers expecting unrestricted access along the whole length.
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
Pre-book only
Lapworth Top Pound: a separate off-line pool with 17 pegs
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Top Pound is a separate, off-line pool rather than simply another length of the canal. It has 17 pegs, with no published acreage.
It’s available for matches, with 15 pegs the recommended maximum match size. That’s the number to work around when organising a turnout, rather than assuming all 17 should be booked.
Lake photographs
A look around Lapworth Top Pound
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
Lapworth Top Pound
We’re checking the fishery’s Lapworth Top Pound pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Match organisers
- Groups planning a match of up to 15 anglers
Maybe not for
- Matches needing more than the recommended 15 pegs
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Lapworth Top Pound
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.
Lapworth Top Pound FAQs
How many pegs does Top Pound have?
There are 17 pegs, but the recommended maximum match size is 15.
Is it part of the canal channel?
No. It is described as a separate, off-line pool.
What's the lake record on Lapworth Top Pound?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Lapworth Top Pound 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 Lapworth Top Pound?
carp.
How big is Lapworth Top Pound and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A separate off-line pool with 17 pegs.
Which baits work well on Lapworth Top Pound?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Lapworth Top Pound 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 Lapworth Top Pound get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Lapworth Top Pound?
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 Stratford-upon-Avon Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Lapworth Top Pound?
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 Lapworth Top Pound on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Lapworth Top Pound in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Lapworth Top Pound?
It depends — Permission is unconfirmed. Check with the managing club before planning a night session.
Who does Lapworth Top Pound suit?
Good for: Match organisers; Groups planning a match of up to 15 anglers. Less suited to: Matches needing more than the recommended 15 pegs.
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
Pre-book only
Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69: an additional canal stretch covered by the season ticket
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
The £25 season ticket also covers the listed Grand Union Canal stretch between bridges 67 and 69. It’s additional water under the same ticket, not part of the Stratford Canal length.
Keep those bridge numbers handy when planning your session. The supplied details don’t give a separate peg count or species breakdown for this stretch.
Lake photographs
A look around Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69
We’re checking the fishery’s Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Season-ticket holders wanting another canal length
- Anglers choosing between the included canal stretches
Maybe not for
- Day-ticket visitors
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69
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.
Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 FAQs
Does the same season ticket cover this stretch?
Yes. The £25 ticket covers the listed Stratford and Grand Union stretches.
What are its boundaries?
The included Grand Union length runs between bridges 67 and 69.
What's the lake record on Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 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 Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69?
carp.
How big is Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. An additional canal stretch covered by the season ticket.
Which baits work well on Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 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 Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69?
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 Stratford-upon-Avon Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69?
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 Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69?
It depends — Permission is unconfirmed. Check with the managing club before planning a night session.
Who does Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69 suit?
Good for: Season-ticket holders wanting another canal length; Anglers choosing between the included canal stretches. Less suited to: Day-ticket visitors.
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
Pre-book only
Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5: a 40-peg match section within the stratford length
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Bridge 31 to Lock 5 is the named 40-peg match section. It overlaps the overall managed Stratford Canal length rather than being a separate lake.
Canal match bookings are £3 per peg with a minimum of 10 pegs. Contact Richard Ray to arrange a booking and confirm the permitted pegs, particularly around the listed lock exclusions.
Lake photographs
A look around Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5
We’re checking the fishery’s Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Canal match organisers
- Groups booking at least 10 pegs
Maybe not for
- Groups wanting a canal match booking below the 10-peg minimum
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5
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.
Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 FAQs
How many match pegs are listed?
The club lists 40 match pegs between Bridge 31 and Lock 5.
Who handles match bookings?
Contact Richard Ray for match bookings.
What's the lake record on Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 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 Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5?
carp.
How big is Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A 40-peg match section within the Stratford length.
Which baits work well on Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 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 Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5?
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 Stratford-upon-Avon Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5?
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 Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5?
It depends — Permission is unconfirmed. Check with the managing club before planning a night session.
Who does Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5 suit?
Good for: Canal match organisers; Groups booking at least 10 pegs. Less suited to: Groups wanting a canal match booking below the 10-peg minimum.
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
Pre-book only
Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5: match-only water — no pleasure fishing
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
The Lock 2 to Lock 5 section is explicitly match-only. It sits within the managed Stratford Canal length, but a season ticket doesn’t make it a pleasure-fishing option.
Arrange match access through the club. The Canal & River Trust restriction on fishing in lock chambers and within 25 metres of lock approaches still needs respecting.
Lake photographs
A look around Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5
We’re checking the fishery’s Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Booked match anglers
- Organisers arranging club-approved matches
Maybe not for
- Pleasure anglers
- Unplanned drop-in sessions
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5
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.
Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 FAQs
Can I pleasure fish here with a season ticket?
No. Lock 2 to Lock 5 is match-only, with no pleasure fishing.
Can match anglers fish right beside the locks?
Fishing is prohibited inside lock chambers and within 25 metres of lock approaches.
What's the lake record on Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 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 Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5?
carp.
How big is Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Match-only water — no pleasure fishing.
Which baits work well on Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 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 Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5?
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 Stratford-upon-Avon Canal before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5?
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 Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5?
It depends — Permission is unconfirmed. Check with the managing club before planning a night session.
Who does Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5 suit?
Good for: Booked match anglers; Organisers arranging club-approved matches. Less suited to: Pleasure anglers; Unplanned drop-in sessions.
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
- No
Can I buy a day ticket or pay on the bank?
Day tickets ceased on 1 April 2026. Season tickets must be purchased in advance, not on the bank.
- No
Can I pleasure fish between Lock 2 and Lock 5?
This section is match-only.
- Only if
Do I need to check the permitted pegs?
The club lists exclusions between locks 12–13 and locks 6–15. Confirm permitted pegs before visiting.
- No
Can I fish inside locks or close to their approaches?
Canal & River Trust prohibits fishing inside lock chambers or within 25 metres of lock approaches.
- Must
Must hooks be barbless?
Barbless hooks are required; pinched-down barbs are acceptable.
- Must
Are there restrictions on hook types?
Use small single hooks. Treble hooks are restricted to predator fishing.
- Must
Are careful handling and returns required?
Wet hands before handling fish, minimise handling time, return fish carefully and allow them to recover before release.
- Only if
Is night fishing allowed?
Permission is unconfirmed. Check with the managing club before planning a night session.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 3 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.
Lapworth Section C — Stratford Canal, Bridge 38 to Lock 2
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.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
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.
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.
Lapworth Top Pound
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.
Grand Union Canal — Bridges 67 to 69
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.
Stratford Canal — Bridge 31 to Lock 5
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.
Stratford Canal — Lock 2 to Lock 5
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.
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
6.5/10 from Tackle Index: The listed mixed coarse species and dedicated match sections give this a useful angling offering, without any basis for promising catches or big fish.
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 — “PERLS Angling Club’s Lapworth Section C offers season-ticket canal fishing, match stretches and the separate Lapworth Top Pound. It’s £25 for the season ticket, but buy ahead and check your pegs carefully — day tickets have gone and some lengths are restricted.”
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 Stratford-upon-Avon Canal
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Stratford-upon-Avon Canal here. Be the first and get the score started.