Mayfly beat

on the River Test
Book now from £260

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Affectionately known as the "Mayfly Beat," Beat 1 offers a phenomenal and varied chalk stream experience at the very top of the Leckford Estate's illustrious waters. Occupying a prime location, this beat features both double-bank access on the main River Test and single-bank fishing on an intimate carrier stream. A uniquely defining feature of Beat 1 is its location near the confluence of the River Test and the River Anton, which joins the main river just 100 meters downstream from the famous Mayfly pub. Anglers have the privilege of fishing this productive stretch right up to the Cattle Drink. The beat is anchored by a charming fishing hut situated perfectly over the footbridge where these two legendary chalk streams meet. Due to its proximity to the pub and specific estate agreements, fishing on this highly coveted beat commences slightly later at 9:30 AM, providing a relaxed start to a magnificent day of dry fly sport.

Rods
1 – 2
Difficulty
Beginner (1/5)
Price
From £260
Length
–

Pricing & Booking

Seasonal Rates

SeasonDatesPrice
Main season1 May – 15 Oct£260 /day
Mayfly season15 May – 6 Jun£315 /day

Book Through

Leckford Estate Fishing Primary
£260 – £315
Book

Stocking & Fish Species

moderate stocking
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Grayling

Rules & Policies

Catch & Release
Bag limit: 5 fish
EA Rod License Required
Dogs Allowed
Ghillie Available
Ghillie Required
Season: 30 Apr – 14 Oct
Season In season · 30 Apr – 14 Oct
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Leckford Estate Fishing

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Location

📍 51.14793, -1.45633

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Fishing Methods

Fly Only

Fly Methods

Dry Fly Nymph
Wading Allowed
Bank Fishing Only
Double Bank

Amenities

fishing lodges at each lake corporate fishing packages ghillie available fishing tuition equipment hire online booking system abbas hotel dining longstock park lodge hire

More on the River Test

The River Test is widely regarded as the birthplace of modern fly fishing and is one of the world's most famous chalk streams. Known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant weed growth, and…

View river details

Frequently Asked Questions

How many rods are allowed on Mayfly beat at any one time?
Mayfly beat allows a maximum of 2 rods at any one time. Contact Leckford Estate Fishing directly if you need to confirm current availability.
What species can I expect to catch on Mayfly beat?
Mayfly beat holds Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Grayling. The beat is moderate-stocked to supplement the wild fish — see the Stocking section on the page for details.
Do I need to wade, or can I fish from the bank?
Mayfly beat is bank-fishing only — no wading is permitted.
Is a ghillie available, and do I need one?
A ghillie is available on Mayfly beat and can be requested through the provider — particularly useful for first-time visitors to the River Test.
Where do I park, and how do I access the beat?
Parking details for Mayfly beat are shown on the beat page, including a map pin where one is provided. Always confirm access arrangements with the provider when you book.
What tackle should I bring?
Mayfly beat permits the following fly methods: dry_fly, nymph. The fly recommendations section on the Mayfly beat page suggests the most effective patterns month by month.
What happens if conditions are poor on the day I've booked?
River conditions can change quickly, especially after rain. Contact the provider as early as possible if you're concerned about Mayfly beat at Leckford Estate Fishing — many are happy to offer an alternative date if the river is unfishable. Cancellation and rescheduling policies vary by provider; check the notes on the booking page or ask when you book.
Are dogs allowed on the beat?
Dogs are not listed as permitted on Mayfly beat. Check the Beat Rules section on the page or contact the provider before bringing a dog, as policies can vary by season and stretch of the River Test.