Using The Well Creek
Fishing
Angling on the Well Creek is free on all public banks but a National Rod and Line License will be required. Licenses are available from the Outwell Post Offices or online from the Environmental Agency.
Anglers using public moorings must give preference to boating in Summer and be prepared to move for the boats. Do not dig the banks when bank fishing. Always seek permission before fishing from private banks and private moorings. There are designated fishing platforms located by the Aquaduct bridge and the Riverside Mooring located along the March Riverside Road in Upwell and not for use by boaters. The Trust has also reserved 1 square metre fishing spots at each end of the Upwell Church boat mooring. If a boat should want to moor here, please remove your fishing poles/rods from the water until it is completed.
Please note that it is illegal to dig holes or small ditches in the bank, as it causes erosion and subsidence.
With respect, please ensure all fishing tackle including used and spent fishing lines and nets are taken home, as they represent danger to the wildlife that uses the Creek. We hope you enjoy your experience on the Creek.
Magnet fishing is discouraged, due to risk of falling into the Creek or severely injuring yourself due to sharp objects.
Swimming
Boating
The Well Creek is the only inland navigable link between the River Great Ouse and the rest of the inland waterway system and is increasingly being used by the boating fraternity by both owners and hirers. The Well Creek and the New Bedford waterway (100 foot drain) are the only navigable links between the River Great Ouse and the Nene. Theoretically river craft can link these two Fenland Rivers to the inland waterway system via the wash requiring special arrangements to open the gates at the Dog and Doublet on the Nene below Peterborough.
Boat Licence Display
All boats on the Inland Waterways are required to display their licence in the windscreen of the boat.
Usage of Locks
It is very important to ensure all lock slackers are closed after use.
Middle Level Commissioners Fee Charges
Unpowered Craft Charges
Paddle UK and access to 4,500km of waterways.
photo by @indcind
The Middle Level Commissioners are in partnership with Paddle UK (British Canoeing) and included in their waterways licence scheme. Therefore, if you hold a waterways licence with Paddle UK (British Canoeing) you are able to canoe, kayak or paddleboard on the Middle Level Commissioners navigable waterways. Paddlers are encouraged to purchase a licence from Paddle UK as they also offer a family and couples option, and their licence comes with public liability insurance, access to safety information and other offers. Please note that the Paddle UK licence doesn’t cover row boats, dinghy and pedalos.
To purchase a Paddle UK waterways licence please use this link. This licence gives you access to over 4,500km of waterways. The Middle Level Commissioners also have a dedicated page on British Canoeing GoPaddling website.
The Canoe Foundation regularly have funding opportunities and the Middle Level Commissioners welcome local users to develop suitable bids. The Middle Level Commissioners consent might be needed for any structural work proposed, so please get in touch with us early within any plans.
For unpowered vessels not covered within Paddle UK licence, such as row boats, dinghy and pedalos, you will require an annual licence from the Middle Level Commissioners – available here.
Happy paddling!
Powered Craft Charges
For the latest licence fees, please go to this link: https://middlelevel.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2023-Navigation-Licence-Rates-2023-24.pdf
Bridge Clearance / Headroom
Places large enough to turn around.
Nature Conservation
Please do not damage, remove or trample upon plant growth, shrubs or trees, and take care not to disturb the natural habitat of wild life. Many species of bird and mammals enjoy legal protection: it is therefore a serious offence to remove eggs, interfere with nests, etc. The Trust is most anxious to afford the necessary degree of protection to preserve the natural flora and fauna of the area, and earnestly request full co-operation in this direction from users of the waterway.
Remember always follow the Well Creek Trust Charter.