3 Rivers 1 Stillwaters England
Fishing in Bristol
Bristol offers 4 mapped fishing waters on PiscaMaps, including 3 rivers, 1 stillwater. Species found across Bristol's waters include Roach, Dace, Chub, Perch, Pike, Bleak, Minnow, Stickleback.
The South West EA region has some of England's finest salmon rivers — the Exe, Tamar, Dart and Taw drain moorland uplands and carry strong runs of spring and autumn salmon. Wild brown trout and sea trout fishing is exceptional, with coarse species in the lower reaches.
A valid Environment Agency (EA) rod licence is required to fish all rivers, canals and most stillwaters in Bristol. Licences are available from gov.uk. Club membership or a day ticket is required on most waters in addition to the rod licence.
1 free fishing rivers 1 stillwaters listed
Featured Rivers in Bristol
Brislington Brook
River
7.5km Species: Roach, Dace, Chub, Minnow, Stickleback
Brislington Brook is a small urban watercourse flowing through Bristol, offering modest fishing opportunities in a suburban setting. The stream is relatively shallow with mixed substrate and flows …
River Frome Free fishing
Tidal River
6.2km Species: Common Carp, Bream, Chub, Roach, Rudd
The Frome is a compact lowland river hosting diverse coarse species including carp, bream, chub, pike, and tench, alongside trout and salmon, though water quality remains poor. Fishing rights are p…
The Malago
River
6.2km Species: Roach, Dace, Chub, Bleak, Perch
The Malago is a modest 6.2km urban river with moderate water quality, offering varied fishing opportunities across its short length. This Bristol-area watercourse provides reasonable habitat for co…
All Rivers in Bristol (3)
Click a river for species information, close season dates, access notes and a location map.
Stillwaters in Bristol (1)
Fish Species in Bristol
17 species recorded across Bristol's rivers, lakes:
| Roach | 3 waters |
| Dace | 3 waters |
| Chub | 3 waters |
| Perch | 2 waters |
| Pike | 2 waters |
| Bleak | 2 waters |
| Minnow | 1 water |
| Stickleback | 1 water |
| Common Carp | 1 water |
| Bream | 1 water |
| Rudd | 1 water |
| Tench | 1 water |
Carp are a popular target across Bristol's waters — always use a landing net and unhooking mat and return fish promptly.
Brown trout are present in Bristol's rivers — many are catch-and-release only and may be subject to game fishing close seasons (typically 1 October to 14 March).
Salmon are present in some of Bristol's rivers. A migratory salmonid licence is required in addition to the standard rod licence.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What fish can I catch in Bristol?+
Waters in Bristol hold Roach, Dace, Chub, Perch, Pike, Bleak, Minnow, Stickleback. Carp are a popular target — always use a landing net and unhooking mat. Pike are present and make for excellent sport on lures and deadbaits through autumn and winter. Trout fishing is available on many of Bristol's rivers and may be subject to season restrictions. Salmon are present on some rivers — a migratory fish licence is required in addition to the standard rod licence.
-
Do I need a licence to fish in Bristol?+
A valid Environment Agency (EA) rod licence is required to fish all rivers, canals and most stillwaters in Bristol. Licences are available from gov.uk. Club membership or a day ticket is required on most waters in addition to the rod licence.
-
What is the close season in Bristol?+
The statutory close season on rivers in England and Wales runs from 15 March to 15 June. There is no close season on canals and stillwaters, though some clubs impose voluntary bans. Always check with the local club before fishing.
-
Which are the best rivers to fish in Bristol?+
PiscaMaps covers 3 rivers in Bristol. Notable waters include Brislington Brook, River Frome, The Malago. Each river page includes species information, access notes, close season dates and a location map.
-
Are there stillwaters to fish in Bristol?+
Yes — PiscaMaps lists 1 stillwaters in Bristol, including Conham Park to Netham Weir, Bristol Avon. Many are day ticket venues; some require club membership.
Fishing in Nearby Counties
