Watersfield

River Arun – Watersfield

This one-mile stretch of the River Arun is probably the most interesting part of the tidal reaches of the Arun. With deep lazy bends and fast flowing shallows the diversity of habitat attracts all species of fish. Notable for its occasional bumper bags of Bream, one notable one being the estimated 300lb shared by two Bognor members a few seasons ago with individual fish to over 8lb. The stretch also contains Roach, Dace, Chub, Perch, Pike, Gudgeon and Eels. The Pike have been reported to nearly 30lb and there are also the occasional large Carp present. In recent years several Barbel have been caught from this stretch and the river also enjoys a seasonal bonus of numerous Mullet and Sea Trout.Copyright Petworth and Bognor Angling Club West Sussex

There are some fantastic views of the South Downs

The river shows its wild side at Watersfield, depth and flow can vary greatly from swim to swim. In general terms the top section starts relatively shallow gets deeper and then shallows up again.
Copyright Petworth and Bognor Angling Club West Sussex

A view of the middle wilder section

The mid section is very difficult to fish due to a combination of reeds and low lying ground although there are a few really interesting swims to be found. The lower section tends to dry out on the inside in places as the tide falls but find the deeper glides and you will be in to some serious fish, almost at the end look out for a gem of an inside line gravel run.
Copyright Petworth and Bognor Angling Club West Sussex

Upstream shot of one of the deeper bends

Roach, Dace, Perch, and small Chub can be caught all through with Bream or even Barbel and Carp liable to show virtually anywhere. Groundbait feeder tactics are the usual method of attack for most species but many anglers prefer to trot a stick float or use the pole, the pole feeder is starting to account for some reasonable bags of fish particularly when the water is coloured.
We have recently had a new car park built for the Watersfield stretch. With easier access now available this venue is well suited to the river angler who enjoys the peace of the countryside.

High water at Watersfield is approximately two and a half hours later than at Littlehampton Harbour.

Click HERE for High Water Times at Littlehampton.

Gate Key Code required for access to this venue.

Closed Seasons:
Coarse: 15th March to 15th June inclusive
Fly: 1st November to 2nd April inclusive