Verulam Angling - Fisheries

RADWELL

VERULAM'S SINGLE bank stretch of the river Ouse at Radwell can probably claim to be one of the most famous sections of the river because of its large population of barbel and chub.

Split into three sections, Radwell, two miles nearer than Felmersham, has two fast, shallow stretches with a slower, deeper area above the railway viaduct and is opposite the Vauxhall AC holdings.

Upstream of the road bridge to the railway viaduct, the fish can be found under the rather lush growth of streamer weed and in this stretch there is a good head of barbel in the 6-7lb bracket with specimens going into double figures. There are also some excellent chub to be had.

In the short section below the road, the fish are more difficult to locate, but here the barbel go into double figures  – 12lb 2oz, the largest during 2003 and there are chub to 6lb. Stepped up tackle is probably a wise option here.

Upstream of the railway, the character of the river changes, being deep and slower than the other sections. Bream feature here and the odd tench is not unknown.

The club acknowledges that river bank access is limited because of the very heavy reed growth on our bank. We are attempting to talk to the EA about what we can do to overcome the problem with platforms or more permanent fixtures. We don’t want to remove the reeds because this is where the fish hold up.

There are still a few good swims available on the faster reaches and above the viaduct is quite fishable.