Cheddar Angling Club

Welcome to Cheddar Angling Club

Keep updated with the lastest reservoir access details on our new Facebook page.

Cheddar reservoir was constructed in the 1930s to make better use of the water from the springs in Cheddar Gorge, which had first been used as a source in 1922. The lake has a capacity of 6 million cubic meters (1,350 million gallons). Some of the water from the reservoir is pumped to Bristol for treatment at the Barrow Treatment works with the rest being treated at the Cheddar works to supply the surrounding area.

In 1947 it became the first supply reservoir in Britain used for sailing. Since then, other recreational activities have been developed like coarse fishing and wind-surfing.

Access. Whilst the path/road around Cheddar Reservoir is not a Public Footpath, Bristol Water does permit access for people to walk the perimeter. We ask that dogs are kept on a lead and that all rubbish and dog waste is taken from the site. The eastern half of the reservoir - the part that runs to the sailing club - is hard standing. The other half is gravel based.

A reminder to all anglers to take all discarded line and braid home with them. This follows several incidents of dogs and sheep becoming entangled causing distress to animals and owners. please fish responsibly. Many Thanks.

Tench

Size- Average 6lbs.

Best Baits - Before much weed is present method feeders out to about 30m Red maggot, caster and sweetcorn. When conditions allow pole fishing or waggler at a close distance feeding hemp and pellet. Other Info - Extremely hard fighting fish, minimum of 6lb line is recommended. Can be caught early May - Sept. Best areas Axbridge entrance and to the left of the Cheddar tower. Numbers vary each year.

Pike

Size - Pike up to 30lb.

Best Baits - Summer spinning and lure fishing in shallow areas. Slow sinking rubber shads or large flashy spinners and spoons work well. From Oct 1st dead baiting is allowed. All sea baits work well (especially sardine & mackerel). Other Info - South + West banks are most popular. Bottom weed can be a problem so use popped up baits or free lined.

Perch

Size- Varies year to year and can see fish up to 2lb.

Best Baits - Small spinners, red maggot and worms. Other Info - Fish close in. Numbers have increased significantly in recent years.

Roach

Size - Depending on year class, fish can be up to 2lbs.

Best Baits - Caster, red maggot on the waggler or pole. Worm for better sized fish. Other Info - Location is essential as fish are constantly on the move.

Eel

Size - Up to 6lbs.

Best Baits - Worm, small dead baits Other Info - Even distribution across reservoir. Fish are as old as 60 years.

Carp

Size - Rumours of some large carp.

Best Baits - ??

Cheddar Reservoir

Cheddar Reservoir holds some really big fish. Tench average 6lb recent reports of double figures, up to 30lb pike, up to 2lb plus perch and shoals and shoals of quality roach. This water is very clear, so the best way to get among the lumps is long cast straight lead or feeder. Top baits for tench are corn, worm and luncheon meat. For the perch worms and maggots and maggots for the roach. There are brick towers coming out of the water about 50 yards from the bank and these seem to attract the perch, a line cast next to them usually gives good sport with these great fighting fish. See individual fish pages for further details.

Fishing times are from dawn - dusk. As long as its light you can fish. The water is open all year. No fishing from the vicinity of the yacht club round to the cheddar tower (the short way). See rules for full details.

Disabled Angles - Unfortunately due to the nature of the concrete stepped banks, styles and gate access. This means the site is not disabled friendly.

Nearest Public Toilets - Meadow Street, Axbridge and Station Road, Cheddar. Local Pubs - The Crown Inn, Axbridge and The Bath Arms, Cheddar. 2 Pubs in Axbridge, 8 in Cheddar other good pubs locally Cross, Draycott. Accommodation - B& Bs in Axbridge + Cheddar, Camping/Tourers in Cheddar.