The Bristol Avon

Chippenham, Wiltshire

The Bristol Avon at Chippenham is a free water, which means you do not need a permit to fish this stretch which runs for about 1 mile out of the town centre, starting from the weir to the water works. Even though its "free" you do need a national rod licence.

The weir is a favoured spot for anglers. Here, the angler will find some good barbel, chub and some big bream, which often fall to bread and maggots.

Downstream, the water is shallower but still gives good sport with chub. There are some deeper swims under the road bridge, which hold bigger barbel, chub and roach. Fishing at night towards the water works has produced some good barbel in the past.

Day Ticket

Free fishing

Main Species

Chub, Barbel, Dace, Roach and Bream

Best Baits

Maggots, Casters, Bread and Sweetcorn

Bans

None

Directions

Follow the A350 into Chippenham, heading for the shopping centre. If you park in the centre pay and display, you can walk to the river. Free fishing is from the weir gates downstream.