Club Rules

Respect the Waters, Fish and Fellow Members

Rules are in place to protect fish welfare, maintain our fisheries and ensure everyone can enjoy the sport safely and responsibly.

Stockport Waltonians Angling Society is built on respect.

Members are expected to act responsibly at all times, care for fish properly, protect the club waters and show respect towards fellow members, officials and the public.

Rules last reviewed: May 2026

General

General Rules

  • All fishing is undertaken at the member’s own risk.
  • No litter, discarded tackle or damage to club property will be tolerated.
  • All fish must be returned to the water with care and consideration.
  • Members must conduct themselves respectfully towards anglers, the public and club officials.
  • Bullying, threatening behaviour or abuse may result in suspension or expulsion.
  • Membership cards are strictly non-transferable.

Fish Care

Hooks, Lines & Fish Welfare

  • Barbless hooks only are permitted on all society waters.
  • Barbed and micro-barbed hooks are strictly prohibited.
  • Braided mainline is not permitted.
  • A suitable landing net must be assembled and ready for use at all times.
  • Keepnets must comply with current Environment Agency byelaws.
  • Fish over 4lb must not be retained in keepnets except during authorised society matches.

Bait

Feed & Bait Restrictions

The following are prohibited on all society waters:

  • Bloodworm
  • Joker
  • Dog biscuits
  • Nuts
  • Loose maize

Water Specific

Mill Brow Restrictions

Groundbait

Maximum 1kg crumb-based groundbait permitted.

Particles & Pellets

Sweetcorn and cooked hemp may be used sparingly. Maximum 1 pint of pellets permitted.

Boilies

Maximum 0.5kg of boilies permitted.

Fishing

Fishing Rules

  • A maximum of two rods may be used at any time.
  • Both baits must be fished within the same swim.
  • Members fishing a single peg must reel in if another member wishes to fish the adjacent peg.
  • Stalking is not permitted on society waters.
  • Night fishing is prohibited unless specifically authorised by the club.
  • Bomb weights and method feeders over ½oz are not permitted.

Juniors

Junior Members

  • Members under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult member when fishing Bramhall Cricket Ground Pond, Henbury Lake or Mill Brow.
  • Junior members under 12 must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
  • Parents or guardians must notify the club of any relevant medical conditions.
  • Junior coaching sessions require a minimum supervision ratio of 1 responsible adult to every 3 juniors.
  • Members under 21 may only join at an official club meeting and must provide valid photo ID and proof of date of birth.

Club Life

Participation & Guests

  • Members are encouraged to attend club meetings regularly.
  • Members should support at least one organised working party each year where possible.
  • Society matches are open to eligible members only.
  • Members under 16 may not participate in senior society matches.
  • Guests are permitted only in accordance with current club guest policies and must remain under the supervision of the hosting member.

Important

Protecting the future of the club

The committee reserves the right to investigate breaches, suspend or terminate memberships where necessary, and amend club rules for fish welfare, safety or club management.

Membership Information