River Colne Fishing Guide

About River Colne

The Colne is a short, heavily urbanised watercourse holding grayling and trout despite poor water quality, requiring a valid rod licence to fish. Most stretches are controlled by angling clubs or private owners, so permission and membership must be secured before fishing.

Anglers should note the close season on River Colne: 15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales). Free fishing is available on sections of River Colne — a valid EA rod licence is still required. Most documented River Colne stretches in England (including Rickmansworth, Hithermoor, Frogmore Lane, and Colne Brook) require season tickets or club membership. The Little Britain stretch near Cowley is confirmed as free to fish with EA rod licence only. Some historical references mention potential free fishing at Staines Moor and between Coy Carp pub and lock on Coppermill Lane (Harefield), though these may no longer be available. The River Colne (Huddersfield area in Yorkshire) has some free sections but sources are anecdotal. Verification recommended before fishing any stretch.

Current Water Conditions

Water level data from the Environment Agency Real Time Flood Monitoring API. Nearest gauging station. Always verify conditions on arrival.

Fish Species in River Colne

River Colne holds grayling, trout.

Trout fishing on River Colne 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 River Colne, even on free fishing stretches.

Free Fishing on River Colne

Known free fishing stretches:

• River Colne, Little Britain, Cowley, Uxbridge (UB8 2JH): Short, tree-lined stretch offering free coarse fishing. EA rod licence required only. Located at west end of Packet Boat Lane, south east of Huntsmoor Park

A valid EA rod licence is still required on all free fishing stretches. You can buy your licence online before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What fish can I catch in River Colne?+
  The river holds Grayling, Trout. Trout fishing on River Colne may be subject to season restrictions — check local byelaws.
• What is the close season on River Colne?+
  15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales) Always confirm with the landowner or club before fishing out of normal season.
• Do I need a licence to fish River Colne?+
  Yes — a valid Environment Agency (EA) rod licence is required by law to fish River Colne. Licences are available online from gov.uk. Some stretches of River Colne offer free fishing (beyond the rod licence).
• What is the water quality like in River Colne?+
  The Environment Agency classifies River Colne as having Bad water quality. Fish status is rated as Bad. Water quality can affect fishing conditions — check the EA's Catchment Data Explorer for up-to-date information.
• Where is free fishing available on River Colne?+
  Free fishing stretches on River Colne include: River Colne, Little Britain, Cowley, Uxbridge (UB8 2JH): Short, tree-lined stretch offering free coarse fishing. EA rod licence required only. Located at west end of Packet Boat Lane, south east of Huntsmoor Park. A valid EA rod licence is still required on all stretches.

Planning a Trip to River Colne

To fish River Colne, you need a valid EA rod licence, available online from gov.uk. Annual, day and 8-day licences are available. Some stretches of River Colne offer free fishing — a rod licence is still required.

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 River Colne.

Nearby Rivers & Canals

Other UK fishing waters near River Colne on PiscaMaps:

• Diggle Brook
• River Ryburn
• Chew Brook
• Huddersfield Narrow Canal
• Turvin Clough
• Calder and Hebble Navigation
• Hebble Brook
• Longden End Brook
• River Beal
• Shelf Brook
• River Holme
• Luddenden Brook