River Test — Fly Fishing Articles & Guides

Chalkstreams

Why Chalk Streams Are Clear, Cold and Full of Fish

Why chalk streams run clear, hold their temperature all year and fish the way they do, from the aquifer up. England holds 85% of the world's chalk streams.

11 min read 17 August 2026

Guides

Affordable fishing on the River Test

The Test is the river people picture when they picture expensive chalk stream fishing. At the top end, that picture is fair. But nine beats on the river itself carry a trout-season day rate below £200

4 min read 19 July 2026

Locations

Dog-friendly fishing beats on the River Test

Not every chalk stream beat welcomes dogs. On the River Test, 28+ do - from the upper chalk reaches at Whitchurch to the lower beats at Broadlands. Here's what's available.

4 min read 4 July 2026

Locations

Beginner-friendly chalk stream beats to start with

You don't need years behind the rod to fish a chalk stream. These six beats, one on each of the south's best-known rivers, are forgiving places to book a first day.

5 min read 18 June 2026