The River Tean
The River Tean is a tributary of the River Dove, its source is north of Cheadle, Staffordshire and its flows south-east where it runs into the River Dove on the outskirts of Uttoxeter. The Saracens Head Angling Clubs stretch of the River Tean is approximately 1 mile and arguably one of the best stretches available as it hasn’t been extensively modified, and benefits from a meandering course and lots of natural habitat and fish holding features. Its a small clear running river with weed in places and offers glides, riffles, gravel beds and deep pools with all areas capable of producing fish dependant on the level, season and conditions.
The predominate species in the river are Grayling and wild Brown Trout, although Chub, Dace and Perch are also present although in lesser numbers. As is the case with most small rivers a stealthy approach is advised and often yields the best results whether flying fishing or trotting and catches well into double figures are not uncommon. Fly fishing can be tricky in parts especially in summer due to the overhead and bankside vegetation, with a shorter lighter rod being advantageous allowing casting underneath the tree canopies, although you’ll rarely need to cast any considerable distance and often you’ll be able to see your target fish in the clear water. The River Tean was affected by a fish kill some years ago, this was upstream of the clubs stretch and fortunately the fish and fish stocks appear not to have been affected by this.