The Swale is a productive 116km northern river holding excellent populations of barbel, chub, bream, pike, grayling and trout, offering varied fishing across moderate water quality. Most fishing rights are privately owned or club-controlled; a valid rod licence is essential.
Anglers should note the close season on River Swale: 15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales). Club membership or day ticket access is required in addition to your EA rod licence on most stretches.
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 River Swale and thousands of other UK fishing venues on the interactive map.
River Swale holds barbel, bream, chub, roach, dace, perch, pike, gudgeon, grayling, trout, salmon, eel, bleak, ruffe.
Salmon fishing on River Swale requires a separate migratory salmonid licence from the EA in addition to the standard rod licence. Bag limits and season dates apply.
Trout fishing on River Swale may be subject to season restrictions set by the local club or riparian owner — always confirm before your session.
Pike fishing is a highlight on River Swale — both lure and deadbait tactics are effective, particularly through autumn and winter.
An EA rod licence is required by law to fish River Swale. Club membership or a day ticket is also required on most stretches.
Image via Wikipedia · Used under Creative Commons licence
To fish River Swale, 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 River Swale.
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 Swale.
Other UK fishing waters near River Swale on PiscaMaps:
