Fishing Near Burton upon Trent: Best Angling Spots

An Angler's Paradise in East Staffordshire

Positioned right along the banks of the River Trent, the historic market town of Burton upon Trent has long been regarded as one of the finest coarse fishing destinations in the United Kingdom. With a rich network of winding rivers, industrial-era canals, and tranquil stillwater fisheries, the area attracts specimen hunters, match anglers, and leisure fishermen alike.

Whether you are pursuing legendary River Trent barbel, casting a fly for grayling on the River Dove, or enjoying a relaxed afternoon watching a float dip on the Trent and Mersey Canal, Burton upon Trent offers fantastic sport in every season. Here is your comprehensive guide to the best fishing spots in and around the town.

1. The River Trent at Burton

The River Trent is undoubtedly the star attraction for coarse anglers visiting the region. Renowned across the country for producing specimen barbel and chub, the waters around Burton upon Trent feature classic river habitats, including gravel shallows, deep gliding pools, and overgrown margins.

Popular stretches include the municipal waters and club-managed sections around the Ferry Bridge and the Riverside Washlands. Here, anglers regularly hook hard-fighting barbel running into double figures, as well as hefty chub, bream, roach, and predator species like pike and perch. The Burton Mutual Angling Association (BMAA) controls substantial stretches along the river, with day tickets and guest permits available across select waters.

2. The River Dove (Newton Solney and Egginton)

Just a short drive northeast of Burton town centre lies the picturesque confluence where the River Dove joins the River Trent. The River Dove flows through pastoral countryside, offering cleaner, faster-flowing water that appeals to both coarse and game anglers.

The lower reaches around Newton Solney and Egginton are famous for barbel, chub, and dace, while upstream stretches provide exceptional sport for wild brown trout and grayling. For fly fishers looking for a peaceful day on flowing water, the Dove presents an exquisite countryside setting with clear currents and abundant insect life.

3. The Trent and Mersey Canal

For consistent, year-round sport and straightforward towpath access, the Trent and Mersey Canal is hard to beat. Running directly through the outskirts of Burton and passing through nearby Shobnall, Horninglow, and Branston, the canal provides miles of productive water.

The canal holds an impressive stock of roach, skimmer bream, perch, and carp, with large pike frequently patrolling the deeper boat channels and turning basins. Due to the steady water movement and shelter provided by narrowboats and bridges, the canal fishes remarkably well even through the colder winter months. An Angling Trust Waterway Wanderers permit or local club ticket allows extensive access across these towpaths.

4. Branston Water Park and Local Stillwaters

If you prefer lake fishing, the local area features several outstanding stillwaters formed from restored gravel pits:

• Branston Water Park: Located just south of Burton on the A38 corridor, this premier local nature reserve features a picturesque 40-acre lake. While primarily managed for conservation and leisure, it holds specimen carp, tench, pike, and bream for permitted club members.
• Mill Farm Fishery: Situated close to nearby Ticknall, this dedicated commercial fishery provides well-stocked day-ticket lakes suitable for both pleasure anglers and pole fishing enthusiasts targeting carp and mixed silverfish.
• Foremark Reservoir: Located approximately 20 minutes from Burton, this 230-acre reservoir offers boat and bank fly fishing for stocked rainbow and brown trout, surrounded by stunning Derbyshire woodland.

Local Fishing Regulations and Tackle Shops

Before casting a line, ensure you possess a valid Environment Agency rod licence, which is required for anyone aged 13 and over fishing on freshwater in England. Additionally, you must obtain permission, a day ticket, or a membership permit from the relevant controlling club or landowner, such as the Burton Mutual Angling Association or Canal & River Trust.

Need to pick up fresh bait or local rigs? Burton upon Trent is home to well-stocked independent tackle shops in and around the town centre, where knowledgeable staff are always happy to share up-to-the-minute reports on which pegs are fishing best.

Where to Eat and Relax in Burton

After an early morning start or a long day by the water, Burton upon Trent offers plenty of places to recharge. A short five-minute walk from the river into the town centre leads to a wide variety of traditional Staffordshire pubs, independent cafes, and international restaurants. Whether you fancy a classic pub meal, a quick takeaway, or an evening curry, you will find excellent dining options throughout the bustling town centre streets.

Base Your Angling Trip at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

When planning a fishing getaway, having comfortable, practical lodging is essential. Located on Bridge Street, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge offers the perfect base for your angling adventure, positioned right along the A38 corridor and just moments from the River Trent.

Anglers appreciate our free on-site parking, making it simple to transport and unpack your rods, tackle boxes, and equipment without long walks from your vehicle. Our 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service is ideal for freshening up your outdoor clothing between long sessions by the water.

We offer 62 en-suite rooms with options for solo anglers, fishing pairs, and groups. Take your pick from our range of comfortable rooms, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple layouts, as well as our self-contained Mews Apartment and four-poster Suite. Every room features free WiFi, daily housekeeping, a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio, complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, a direct dial phone, and convenient in-room tea and coffee making facilities so you can enjoy a hot brew before heading out at dawn.

Our reception team is available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, supported by an on-duty night porter from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM, ensuring smooth arrivals no matter when your fishing travels conclude. Ready to explore the finest river and canal fishing in Staffordshire? Book your room online today or call our team directly on 01283 523800 to organise your stay.

Planning a visit? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge.