The Stourbridge Canal is a 6.8km urban waterway in the West Midlands, characterized by relatively shallow, still water typical of canal systems. It offers accessible fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers, with a mix of residential and industrial surroundings along its route.
Stourbridge Canal holds roach, bream, perch, pike, carp, tench, gudgeon, rudd. 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.
The following stretches of the Stourbridge Canal are included in the Waterways Wanderers free-fishing scheme. These sections are open to anglers holding a valid Environment Agency rod licence at no extra cost:
Always verify current free-fishing extents on the Canal & River Trust website before your session, as extents may change.
Filter UK canals and rivers by species, navigation and free-fishing status. Plus French, Belgian and Dutch public waters.
To fish Stourbridge 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 Stourbridge 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.