The Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal is a short urban waterway spanning 2.4km, offering accessible fishing opportunities for anglers seeking a variety of coarse fish species. The canal provides a pleasant fishing experience with good populations of carp and other traditional coarse species, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced anglers looking to fish close to urban areas.
Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal holds common carp, crucian carp, bream, roach, rudd, tench, perch, pike, gudgeon. Carp are particularly popular with specimen anglers — handle all fish with care and return them promptly.
An Environment Agency rod licence is required alongside a Canal & River Trust day or annual fishing licence. Both available online.
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To fish Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal, you need a valid Environment Agency rod licence, available from gov.uk, plus a Canal & River Trust fishing licence or day permit. Both can be purchased online before your visit. Day tickets, weekly and annual CRT licences are all available.
The towpath alongside Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal provides bank access for most of its length. Some stretches may be managed by local angling clubs — check for club-only water before setting up. Always leave gates as you find them and take all litter home.
