The Thames Lower is a transitional water body, an estuarine section of the River Thames in the Medway area of the United Kingdom. It is officially designated as a heavily modified water body under the Water Framework Directive, extending roughly from Stanford-le-Hope to Mucking. This is a dynamic and challenging saltwater environment characterized by a high tidal range, powerful currents, and variable salinity levels that change with the tide. Conditions here are notably harsh, demanding respect and preparation from anglers.