Manor Farm Lavendon & Priory Farm Harrold

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This stretch of the upper Ouse is comprised of two large hay meadows and a heavily wooded length offering a variety of challenges to the angler. It is accessible from the B565 road linking the hamlet of Cold Brayfield, near Turvey and the town of Olney. The entrance is a cart track situated in a dip in the road adjacent to a disused sewage treatment works

Cars may be parked at either of two widened sections of track between the entrance and a small fenced area. Improved parking facilities are being sought so watch this space. Night fishing is allowed.

The water was acquired by the Association in June 2004 and is known to hold some very large specimens of different species. The water presents classic upper Ouse fishing with a series of deep pools and shallow glides. Although heavily weeded in the summer months, many swims are fishable throughout the season. The previous tenants claimed to have caught barbel weighing up to 17lbs from the stretch. In June, our match secretary was keen to sample the fishing and was surprised to catch a massive 23lb common carp on his first visit (see photo). In addition to the carp, Martin lost several big fish that were too powerful for his 8lb line. Another large carp weighing 21lbs has since been caught at the venue and several other biggies spotted.

To-date, barbel to 9lbs have been reported but it is known that barbel fishermen tend to be a secretive bunch reluctant to publicise their catches so it is likely that this weight has been bettered.

Chub, Perch, Pike and Dace are also present in numbers so there are plenty fish of other species to target. For example, David Holland from Gt Paxton paid a visit to the water and took a number of Chub to over 4lbs and was about to net a modest two pounder when it was taken by a large and voracious pike

PRIORY FARM, HARROLD ( River Ouse)

This stretch of the River Ouse is situated alongside the minor road between Harrold and Lavendon and lies upstream of the weir in the village of Harrold. It consists of four meadows and the river generally has a moderate flow. Access is via the grassy track that leads down to a small parking area between the 1st and 2nd meadows upstream. All the usual species are present including Barbel, Chub, Bream, Pike, Perch, Roach and others. Night fishing is permitted.

Most swims need little attention with a minimum of bankside vegetation. The water has produced barbel well into double figures. Our match secretary has reported catching quality roach fishing at various depths and the presence of some large bream shoals.