River Trent: Radcliffe Viaducts (43 Pegs)
Situated alongside the Finger Ponds, the Radcliffe Viaducts stretch of the River Trent is a premier destination for those who appreciate both convenience and quality. With 43 numbered pegs, this fishery offers a diverse range of environments, from steady deeps to faster-flowing runs.
A Match Angler's Dream
This stretch is highly regarded on the match circuit for its consistency and accessibility:
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The Top Field (Pegs 18–43): This is the crown jewel for ease of access. You can park your vehicle directly at your peg, making it ideal for transporting heavy match gear or for anglers who prefer to stay close to their transport.
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Consistent Sport: The match weights here are frequently bolstered by large nets of Roach and Dace, which respond exceptionally well to stick float and waggler tactics.
Specimen Hunting & Species
If you’re looking for a new personal best, the Viaducts stretch holds some serious residents:
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Powerful Barbel: Use heavy feeder tactics to target the hard-fighting Barbel that patrol the main channel.
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Slabs & Predators: The stretch is noted for large Bream and provides excellent sport for Pike enthusiasts.
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The "Wildcard" Carp: Don't be surprised if a powerful River Carp picks up your bait—the stretch is home to some nomadic giants that provide a massive challenge on river gear.
Access & Rules
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Day Ticket Water: Accessible to all, though a key is required to pass through the security gate (available at local tackle shops).
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Match Bookings: The Federation welcomes club match bookings for this stretch.
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Closed Season: Please remember that as a river fishery, this water is subject to the statutory closed season (March 15th to June 15th inclusive).
[!TIP] Tactical Advice: When the river is carrying a bit of extra water, the "Top Field" pegs (18–43) can be particularly productive for Barbel and Bream as they move closer to the near bank to find slack water
Directions to Radcliffe Viaducts (River Bank)
Getting to the river is straightforward, following the same initial route as the Finger Ponds. This access takes you directly to the heart of the 43-peg stretch.
Step-by-Step Directions
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The Approach: Turn off the A6011 Radcliffe Road onto Regatta Way (following signs for the National Water Sports Centre).
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The Turning: Drive past the main entrance of the Water Sports Centre and take the first left, signposted “Ski Pull.”
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The Landmark: Follow this road, passing the Little Green Pond on your right.
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The Final Turn: At the bottom of the road, bear right until you reach a track on the right-hand side.
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The River Access: Follow this track through the security gate.
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Reminder: This gate must be kept locked at all times.
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Arrival: This track leads you directly to the river bank, providing easy access to the pegs.
Parking & Access Notes
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Peg-Side Parking: Once through the gate, the track allows for convenient parking—specifically in the Top Field (Pegs 18–43), where you can park right behind your peg.
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Security Key: A standard Federation key is required to open the gate. These are readily available from most Nottingham tackle shops.
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Vehicle Care: While the track is generally well-maintained, please drive slowly to protect your vehicle and be mindful of other anglers already on the bank.
[!WARNING] Gate Etiquette: To prevent unauthorized access and protect the fishery, always lock the gate immediately after passing through—even if you think someone else might be coming shortly behind you.
