The YDAA controls the stretch of canal from Selby “Basin” to Brayton Bridge, a distance of approximately two miles, and between West Haddlesey and Burn Bridge. The canal is well used and forms an excellent fishery for match and pleasure fishing alike. Matches are regularly fished on the canal and any club can book a length, availability permitting, by contacting the waters secretary. Fishing stations are being constructed by local members and provide comfortable fishing along the fishery.
The main target species are roach, and skimmers with bags of over 20lb recorded. Good numbers of tench are present along with perch and to a lesser extent eels, carp, chub and rudd. Good numbers of pike of all sizes are resident throughout the stretch.
Most anglers use the pole as the main method of attack, but waggler and feeder tactics all work in the right peg. Main baits are maggot, pinkie, squat and caster but never forget to take some hemp as this usually sorts out the better quality roach. Tench fall to corn, worm or bread and lure fishing for pike and perch can be productive.
For the Selby basin, parking is behind the industrial estate at Selby, along the road adjacent to the fishing platforms. Fishing is on the right hand bank from Selby basin to the Doncaster road bridge, land the left hand bank from there to Brayton Bridge.
For Brayton Bridge take the A1041, and after crossing the A63, take the next right, crossing the railway and canal before turning right to the parking area.
Access to the lower stretch of water may be gained at West Haddlesey, Burn Bridge and, from Burn village, at Paperhouse Bridge.
