Canals around the UK are home to some fantastic predator fishing and the beauty is, you never truly know what fish are lurking in them, with some waterways even holding catfish. One of the most effective ways of targeting the perch, pike and zander on canals is lure fishing and if you get your tactics right, you can have some formidable sport. If you're looking for canals holding predators then look no further, here are some of the best canals to potentially reel in a big surprise.
LURE FISHING ON CANALS REQUIRE THE BEST LURE FISHING RODS, OUR GUIDE HIGHLIGHTS THE BEST CHOICES.
South Stratford Canal, South Warwickshire
For a chance at trophy perch and zander, head to the stretch between Broomhall Bridge and Old Warwick Road. Be prepared for challenging fishing, but the rewards can be worth it. Day tickets can be bought online.
Contact: www.lureanglerscanalclub.co.uk
Grand Union Canal, Aylesbury Arm, Buckinghamshire
Consistent winter fishing awaits at Aston Clinton. Target perch around cover and structures, particularly in the long pound area between Red House and Broughton.
Contact: www.tringanglers.org.uk
Staffs & Worcester Canal, Stoke Prior, Worcestershire
This peaceful stretch offers big perch and chunky pike. It falls under the Canal and River Trust's Waterway Wanderers Scheme, providing access to a vast network of canals, memberships can be bought online.
Contact: www.canalrivertrust.co.uk
Shropshire Union Canal, Soudley, Shropshire
With plenty of overhanging trees and features, this canal offers excellent fishing. Day tickets grant access to 120 pegs in the section off bridge 53. Purchase tickets in advance from the club secretary or Wharf Tavern.
Contact: 07974 535377 or www.hodnetanglingclub.co.uk
SEE OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST SPINNING REELS TO HELP IMPROVE YOUR LURE FISHING SETUP.
Stainforth & Keadby Canal, Thorne, South Yorkshire
A renowned location for early winter pike and perch fishing. Explore the stretch between Mauds Bridge and Dunstans Hill Bridge, which boasts many unfished areas.
Contact: 07940 143329 or www.thorneanddistrictaa.com
Fossdyke Canal, Burton Waters, Lincolnshire
This historic canal controlled by Lincoln DAA is known for perch exceeding 4lb. Try drop shotting real lobworms in promising areas near structures.
Contact: 01522 690301 or www.lincolnangling.org
Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Bingley, West Yorkshire
This three-mile stretch is a haven for big fish, particularly for lure anglers during winter. Target pike and perch using a roving approach.
Contact: www.bingleyanglingclub.co.uk
SELECTING THE BEST FISHING LURES WILL HELP YOU TARGET CANAL PREDATORS.
Birmingham Old Line Canal, Gas Street, West Midlands
Don't be fooled by the urban setting! This canal offers fantastic perch and pike fishing. Try the wider areas opposite the Barclaycard Arena. Fishing permits fall under the Waterway Wanderers Scheme.
Contact: www.canalrivertrust.co.uk
Coventry Canal, Warwickshire, West Midlands
For canal zander enthusiasts, this 14-mile stretch is a must-visit. It also boasts healthy perch, pike, and even chub populations. .
Contact: www.tussesangling.co.uk
Kennet and Avon Canal, West Berkshire, Berkshire
Head to Froxfield or Salmon Cut for a chance at perch exceeding 3lb. These stretches offer ample water to explore, with pike also present.
Contact: www.rdaa.co.uk
OUR GUIDE TO FISHING LURES ON CANALS WILL HELP YOU CONQUER YOUR LOCAL CANAL.
