The Terrain & Tactics

The physical makeup of this stretch makes it unique compared to the deeper urban sections of the Trent:

• The Flow: The water here is relatively shallow and carries a good pace, making it the perfect habitat for river species that thrive in highly oxygenated water.

• Barbel Country: These conditions are "Barbel heaven." The stretch is famous for its hard-fighting residents, with the pegs located just above Clifton Bridge being legendary for producing double-figure Barbel.

• Method: While float fishing is possible in certain glides, feeder fishing with heavy leads or large pellets is the go-to method for pinning down the big specimens in the fast current.

Fishery Boundaries

The Federation controls a significant portion of this bank:

• Upstream: All pegs from the Grove Farm entrance heading downstream.

• The Bridge: Continuous pegs leading down to and under Clifton Bridge.

• Downstream: A selection of productive pegs located just below the bridge.

Essential Information

• Day Tickets: Available for non-members, offering elite river fishing at a great price.

• Seasonality: As with all river stretches, this water is subject to the closed season (March 15th to June 15th inclusive).

• Environment: This is a wilder, more natural feeling stretch of the river. Ensure you have a sturdy tripod or bank sticks capable of being driven into gravelly ground.

Why Fish Here?

If you want to hear your baitrunner scream, this is the place to be. The combination of the bridge's structure and the gravelly runs from Grove Farm creates a haven for specimen fish. Whether you're chasing a double-figure Barbel or a hard-fighting River Carp, the Clifton stretch rarely disappoints.

[!TIP] Top Tip: When the river is low and clear, look for the darker, deeper gullies between the weed beds—this is where the biggest Barbel will be tucked away during the day.

Ready to test your gear against some of the Trent's most powerful fish? Head down to Clifton Bridge and see why it's a favorite for the Nottingham specimen scene.

Access & Directions: Clifton Bridge & Grove Farm

Accessing this stretch is easy once you know the local turns. This route puts you right at the heart of the action, with the bridge providing a great landmark for the best barbel pegs.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. The Starting Point: Approach the north side of Clifton Bridge (A52).

2. The Turn-Off: At the large roundabout (island) on the north side, take the exit onto Lenton Lane.

3. The Approach: Follow Lenton Lane as it heads toward the river.

4. The Landmark: Where Lenton Lane makes a sharp right-hand turn, do not follow the main road. Instead, keep left and pass through the gate.

5. Arrival: This track leads you directly down to the riverbank underneath the bridge.

Parking & Site Rules

To ensure we maintain access to this fantastic stretch, please adhere to the following parking regulations:

• Where to Park: You are permitted to park directly under Clifton Bridge. This provides a sheltered spot for your vehicle and central access to the pegs.

• Walking the Bank: Once parked, the pegs are accessed by foot. You can walk upstream toward Grove Farm or downstream to the lower pegs.

• Vehicle Restriction: Strictly no vehicles are to be driven upstream beyond the bridge area. Access to the Grove Farm pegs is by foot only to protect the bankside and meadow.

Pro Angler's Note

The area directly under and just above the bridge is prime territory. The bridge supports create natural features that big fish love to hold around. By parking under the bridge, you are only a few yards away from some of the most famous barbel "hotspots" on the Middle Trent.

[!IMPORTANT] Gate Security: Please ensure the gate is closed behind you to secure the site. As always, keep the area clean and take all litter home to help us preserve this premier river fishery.

Enjoy the power of the Trent—good luck with those double-figure barbel!