Macclesfield Canal - Astbury

Map

General Information

 The Victoria & Biddulph A.S. stretch of the Macc. Canal runs for approximately 1.5 miles. This is from bridge 77, (snail bridge, Congleton) to bridge 80. (Astbury).This section canal varies in its surroundings along its stretch. Near the bridge 77 end are private houses backing on to the far bank. Following this (mainly bridges 78 – 79 is Astbury golf course and then you are in the middle of the countryside at bridge 80. There are four bridges on the VBAS stretch. Bridges 79 and 80 are road bridges whereas bridges 77 and 78 are foot bridges. (A private road does go over bridge 77). Members are reminded that the canal is in regular use with boats, especially in the summer months and should not let this frustrate them.

Known Species

As with all canals, most course fish are present. VBAS's stretch is particularly well known as an easy to catch water. This is mainly down to the endless shoals of perch and gudgeon. Having said that, roach and bream shoals can be found, but a bit of luck will be needed to hold on to them. The stretch is also known for its ghost carp. Many of these are well into double figures and can be caught by those who try.

Extra Rules/Conditions

 To work alongside other local clubs, VBAS does allow them to fish certain parts of the stretch on an annual lease. Details are available at monthly committee meetings.

Directions and Parking

From the A34 at Astbury, turn into Astbury itself (Astbury church is immediately after the turning). Follow this lane until you come to a right turn. If you turn right, this will take you to bridge 80, with parking just before the bridge. If you were to carry on, you would get to bridge 79. Parking is by the golf course on the left, immediately after the bridge. To get to Snail Bridge follow the same road to the end, then turn left. Then take the next left and then an immediate right. Follow this road until Wolstanholme Close appears on the right. Just into Wolstanholme Close, park on the road and just on the left is a track leading to Snail Bridge (77).

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