View across the harbour from Hengisbury head
Christchurch harbour extends
from "The Run" at Mudeford Quay to the point where the Hampshire Avon and Stour meet, called
not surprisingly Two Riversmeet, (not a unique name). The Water covers some 140
hectares with a 5.4 miles of bank. Not all the bank is accessible for fishing since much of
the south bank and some of the north bank have been allowed to remain wild to support the
numerious species of wildlife. The entry to the harbour at Mudeford Quay is a very narrow
inlet through which all the tidal water flows, as such it is at times it can be quite dangerous.
Within the harbour a single deep navigation channel winds its way, with shallow waters either side.
At low tide much of the harbour is little more than 2 feet deep. Although popular with many forms
of water sport, in all but the very height of the season there are many places to fish. Boat
fishing often offers the best sport since it pays to be mobile during the different tides,
of which there are two per day due to the proximity of of the Isle of Wight and the Solent.
The whole harbour is overlooked on the south side by Hengisbury head which provides good shelter
from the sea winds.
The harbour is truly a wonderful place to fish, tranquil, beautiful, relaxing, yet still able to offer
the most varied fishing imaginable. The same water has produced large Carp, some of the best Mullet
specimens in the country, superb Sea Trout, large catches of Roach and Dace, Bass, Flounder, and at quiet
times even a few noticable crabs - though not all on one day !
