Venue & Tackle Information

• Venue: South Drain - Chilton Drove (Old Mans Cottage)
• Overview:

   Fishing Character

   

  • The banks along much of the South Drain stretch are accessible, which allows a mobile approach for predator anglers.
  • In summer, the Drain can become weeded, though weed cutting is part of its management under the local drainage board plans.
  • Water is relatively slow moving, with a discernible central channel depth. Fishing conditions are sometimes akin to still water fishing in spots.
  • Fish species present include roach, skimmer bream, perch, carp, tench, eel, and pike.
  • Autumn can be strong for “hemp & tare roach” fishing. In winter, predator anglers target pike, especially in stretches where baitfish gather.

   

  Species You Can Expect to Catch

   The South Drain is a mixed fishery that provides sport for anglers of all abilities. Species commonly caught include: 

  • Roach – These are one of the most prolific species on the Axe. They can be caught using light float or feeder tactics, with maggots, pinkies, and casters proving reliable.
  • Perch – Often found close to features and along the margins. Worms and small live baits work well, but a simple maggot on the hook can tempt plenty of stripeys throughout the year.
  • Bream & Skimmers – Particularly present in the deeper, slower areas. A groundbait feeder with worms, maggots, or sweetcorn is a tried-and-tested approach.
  • Eels – Present throughout the system and often encountered on worm, maggot, or deadbait rigs in summer evenings.
  • Pike – Spinning, lure fishing, and deadbaiting are all effective methods in the cooler months.

    

  Venue Details at a Glance 

  • Depths: 4 - 10 ft
  • Number of Pegs: 120+ (along all stretches of south drain combined)
  • Fishing Restrictions: No livebait or freshwater deadbait.

   

  Species and Stock 

  • Carp – up to 30lb+
  • Bream – up to 9lb
  • Tench – up to 7lb
  • Roach – to around 2lb
  • Rudd – to around 2lb
  • Perch – to around 3lb
  • Eels– to around 5lb

      

  Access, Parking & Stretch Limits

   

  • The fishable, managed stretch runs from above Chilton Drove Bridge to Gold Corner.
  • Access is possible at many of the bridges along that length, though there is no dedicated parking — anglers need to park responsibly near access points.
  • Be sure to confirm which bank is permitted in each section, and whether there are any “no fishing” signs near sluices or restricted structures.
  • Some structures (sluices, penstocks, tilting weirs) are part of water level control but may not always be operational.

   

  Best Tactics for the South Drain

  The South Drain is a man made drainage channel, and conditions can change with the weather and season. Some general tips include: 

  • Float Fishing – Pole or waggler tactics with maggots, casters, or bread are very effective for roach and perch.
  • Feeder Fishing – Particularly productive for bream, skimmers, and larger roach. Groundbait feeders packed with maggots or chopped worm can quickly draw fish into your swim.
  • Ledgering & Deadbaits – For pike, a wire trace with smelt, sardine, or sprat deadbaits is ideal. Always use appropriate tackle to ensure safe handling and release.
  • Seasonal Approach – In summer, fish are often found in shallower water, whereas in winter the deeper, steadier stretches can produce better results, especially for bream and pike.

   

---

---