The Main Drain is a productive lowland waterway offering excellent coarse fishing opportunities across its 84km length. With a healthy population of carp, bream, pike and perch, anglers can expect consistent sport in moderate water conditions. Access is generally good along much of the drain, though permits and local fishing rights should be checked with the relevant drainage board or fishing clubs before visiting.
Main Drain observes the standard close season: 15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales). Always check local byelaws before your visit. A rod licence alone does not grant access — most stretches require club membership or a day ticket in addition.
Water level data from the Environment Agency Real Time Flood Monitoring API. Nearest gauging station. Always verify conditions on arrival.
Filter by water type, species and access. View Main Drain and thousands of other UK fishing venues on the interactive map.
Main Drain holds common carp, carp, crucian carp, bream, chub, roach, rudd, tench, perch, pike, zander, gudgeon, trout, eel, bleak, ruffe.
Carp are a popular target on Main Drain — handle carefully with a landing net and unhooking mat, and return promptly.
Trout fishing on Main Drain may be subject to season restrictions set by the local club or riparian owner — always confirm before your session.
An EA rod licence is required by law to fish Main Drain. Club membership or a day ticket is also required on most stretches.
To fish Main Drain, you need a valid EA rod licence, available online from gov.uk. Annual, day and 8-day licences are available. In addition to the rod licence, you will need club membership or a day ticket from the controlling angling club or riparian owner for most stretches of Main Drain.
Always check conditions before you visit. Water quality, access and rules can change seasonally. The EA's Catchment Data Explorer provides up-to-date water quality information for Main Drain.
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