Fishing Near Burton upon Trent: Top Angling Spots Guide

A Haven for Anglers on the River Trent

Burton upon Trent has long been celebrated for its rich industrial history, but for fishermen, the town’s real claim to fame lies in its exceptional waterways. Situated in East Staffordshire along the banks of the River Trent and close to the River Dove, Burton offers access to some of the finest coarse, game, and carp fishing in the UK. Whether you are aiming to catch specimen barbel, haul in heavy nets of chub and roach, or enjoy a peaceful day by a gravel pit, the waters around Burton upon Trent deliver outstanding sport for anglers of all skill levels.

Top Fishing Spots Near Burton upon Trent

1. The River Trent at Burton

The River Trent is legendary in the coarse fishing community, and the stretches flowing directly through Burton upon Trent are amongst the most famous in the country. Known for producing impressive bags of barbel, chub, roach, bream, and pike, the river offers varied sport throughout the season.

Key stretches include the municipal waters around Ferry Bridge and the town bridge, as well as controlled stretches managed by local angling associations. In the summer and autumn months, trotting with float gear or ledgering with halibut pellets yields incredible catches of barbel that fight hard in the strong currents. During colder winter months, pike anglers often target the deeper slack waters near bridge arches and river bends.

2. Branston Water Park

Located just two miles south of Burton town centre, Branston Water Park is a premier premier local venue. Formerly a gravel pit, this 52-acre site is now a peaceful Local Nature Reserve featuring a magnificent 40-acre lake surrounded by wetland habitats and woodland paths.

The main lake holds an impressive stock of specimen carp, bream, tench, roach, and large pike. The water is deep and clear, offering a rewarding challenge for specimen anglers willing to put in the time. Because it is a public nature park, fishing permits are managed by local angling clubs, making it easily accessible for day ticket holders and season members alike.

3. The River Dove Confluence

A short distance north-west of Burton upon Trent flows the River Dove, famous forever in angling history thanks to Izaak Walton’s classic 1653 book, The Compleat Angler. Lower down near its confluence with the River Trent around Clay Mills and Stretton, the River Dove provides exceptional coarse fishing for barbel, chub, and dace in fast, shallow runs and deep pools.

Further upstream into the Dove Valley, game anglers can find superb wild brown trout and grayling fishing on fly-only stretches. The sheer variety of habitat along the Dove makes it a must-visit destination for any visiting angler.

4. Local Commercial Fisheries and Day-Ticket Lakes

If you prefer well-managed commercial lakes with guaranteed action, the countryside surrounding Burton upon Trent is dotted with outstanding fishery complexes:

• Mill Farm Fishery: A popular venue located close by, offering well-stocked pleasure and match lakes packed with carp, F1s, tench, and silverfish. Perfect for a relaxing day with flexible day-ticket options.
• Foremark Reservoir: Situated a short drive to the east near Ticknall, this vast 230-acre reservoir is one of the region’s standout trout fisheries, catering to both bank and boat fly fishing for rainbow and brown trout.
• Coopers Green & Local Gravel Pits: Managed by local clubs, these secluded waters host brilliant specimen carp and massive bream shoals in scenic rural settings.

Angling Clubs, Tackle Shops, and Licensing

Before casting a line, ensure you possess a valid Environment Agency Rod Licence, which is required for fishing in all freshwater rivers, streams, and lakes across England. Many river stretches and lakes in Burton are controlled by the Burton Mutual Angling Association (BMAA), one of the oldest and largest angling clubs in the country, which offers day permits and seasonal memberships.

Need to pick up fresh bait, groundbait, terminal tackle, or local advice? Burton upon Trent features well-stocked independent tackle shops located near the town centre. Visiting local tackle shops is a great way to get up-to-the-minute reports on which baits and tactics are currently catching on the Trent or Dove.

Exploring Burton Town Centre After a Day on the Bank

After an early morning start and a full day on the water, you will naturally want to unwind. Burton upon Trent’s town centre is home to a fantastic selection of traditional Staffordshire pubs, independent eateries, craft beer bars, and international restaurants. Located right along Bridge Street and the High Street, these local venues offer warm hospitality and hearty evening meals just a short walk from the riverbanks.

The Ideal Accommodation for Anglers: Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

When planning an angling trip to Burton upon Trent, having comfortable, practical, and well-located lodging is essential. Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge to enjoy comfortable accommodation situated on Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent (DE14 1SY)—placing you moments from the River Trent and just a 5-minute walk from the bustling town centre.

Our convenient location on the A38 corridor and just 1 mile from Burton train station makes travelling to local lakes and riverbanks fast and straightforward. For guests travelling with fishing rods, tackle boxes, and gear, our hotel offers free on-site parking, taking the hassle out of loading and unloading your vehicle.

We offer a total of 62 rooms tailored to suit every setup, whether you are travelling solo, with an angling partner, or in a larger group. You can explore our full range on our rooms page, including:

• Single Rooms: Ideal for solo anglers on a focused weekend fishing trip.
• Standard Twin & Executive Twin Rooms: Perfect for fishing buddies who want separate beds and generous space for gear.
• Standard Double & Executive Double Rooms: Comfortable and spacious options for relaxing after a day outdoors.
• Family Rooms, Quadruple Rooms, Mews Apartments, and our four-poster Suite: Excellent choices for longer stays or small groups.

Every room at Three Queens Hotel is en-suite with a private bathroom, flat-screen TV featuring Freeview channels and radio, tea and coffee making facilities, a hairdryer, complimentary toiletries, and a direct dial phone. Guests benefit from free WiFi throughout the property to check weather forecasts and river levels, along with daily housekeeping and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service—ideal for freshening up your outdoor wear after a long day by the water.

Our reception is open from 8am to 10pm, with a night porter available from 10pm to 8am to assist with late arrivals or early morning departures. Plan your next Midlands angling adventure today and experience everything the waters of Burton upon Trent have to offer!

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