Skip to main content

The charity making life better by water

Help us improve angling and care for the fishery at Fens Pools in Dudley

Local angling clubs, community groups and members of the public are being given the opportunity to manage the fishing on a local site at Fens Pools nature reserve in Dudley.

Man and boy fishing

The site consists of several pools and ponds, but angling will only be permitted on two pools, Grove Pool (also known as Lower Pool) and Middle Pool.

We have secured funding to improve some of the facilities, such as access and fishing pegs and the new tenant would need to continue work with the Trust to improve facilities at the fishery.

Site of Special Scientific Interest

Fens Pools is statutory designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). SSSI's represent the very best wildlife and geological sites in the country, whilst SAC's recognise the international importance of Fens Pools. The Trust has a legal duty and charitable objective of protecting and positively manging the special features of wetlands, amphibians, birds and invertebrates. The group will be expected to demonstrate the Trusts values and support the positive management of the special site.

Fens Pools are operated as operational reservoirs that feed water to the local Stourbridge canal. As such the water levels do fluctuate throughout the year.

Angling is a surprisingly good form of exercise and with research showing that spending time by the water can help to lower anxiety, Fens Pools have an important role to play in improving the health and wellbeing of the local community.

Work with us

Carl Nicholls, our fisheries and angling technical specialist, said: "This is a great opportunity for a local club or active community group to work with us, improve and develop an excellent amenity at Fens Pools.

"With so many people living on the doorstep the Fens Pools site, it is a great opportunity for angling to have a real positive impact and by getting people out by the water and feeling the health and wellbeing benefits for themselves.

"The new tenants will play a crucial role in that, helping to manage anglers and angling activities and improve facilities. It's a unique opportunity and we'd encourage anyone interested to get in touch."

Get in touch

Those interested in taking on the fishing rights on Fens Pools should submit an initial expression of interest to [email protected] detailing:

  • Information regarding the club, community or individual
  • Outline plans for the day-to-day management of angling at Fens Pools
  • Any future aspirations or developments of the fishery

The closing deadline for initial expressions of interest is Monday 1 November and short-listed candidates will each be invited to an onsite meeting to discuss their application in detail.

Kingfisher in flight with small fish in its beak

Support our work

We need your support to keep canals and rivers alive. Donate today to make a difference

Last Edited: 12 October 2021

photo of a location on the canals
newsletter logo

Stay connected

Sign up to our monthly newsletter and be the first to hear about campaigns, upcoming events and fundraising inspiration