Old Station Beat

on the River Test
Book now from £328

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The Old Station Beat is a charming and intimate stretch of chalk stream that offers a truly exceptional sight-fishing experience. While it provides a plentiful and exciting mix of wild and stocked trout throughout the season, the beat truly comes alive during the famous Mayfly hatch, offering some of the most spectacular dry fly action of the year. Because of its delicate nature and gin-clear waters, the Old Station Beat is best suited for the experienced angler equipped with a shorter brook rod. It is a highly technical water that rewards stealth, careful observation, and precise casting. Anglers fishing this secluded beat will find fantastic opportunities for stalking trout in a profoundly peaceful and tranquil environment, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Rods
Up to 12
Difficulty
Beginner (1/5)
Price
From £328
Length
–

Pricing & Booking

Seasonal Rates

SeasonDatesPrice
Early Season13 Apr – 14 May£328 /day
Mayfly Season15 May – 12 Jun£328 /day
Main Season13 Jun – 11 Oct£328 /day

Book Through

Bossington Estate Fly Fishery Primary
£328 – £398
Book

Stocking & Fish Species

moderate stocking
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Grayling
Pike
Wild Trout

Rules & Policies

Catch & Release
EA Rod License Required
Dogs Allowed
Ghillie Available
Ghillie Required
Season: 13 Apr – 11 Oct
Season In season · 13 Apr – 11 Oct
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Bossington Estate Fly Fishery

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Location

📍 51.08033, -1.50902

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Fishing Methods

Fly Only

Fly Methods

Dry Fly Nymph Wet Fly
Wading Allowed
Bank Fishing Only
Double Bank

Amenities

catering and picnic hampers available corporate days with full catering gaia/aapgai qualified instructors guided days available equipment hire (rods, reels, lines, flies, vests, nets, hats, boots, polarised sunglasses) fishing hut toilets nets flies

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 Old Station Beat at any one time?
Old Station Beat allows a maximum of 12 rods at any one time. Contact Bossington Estate Fly Fishery directly if you need to confirm current availability.
What species can I expect to catch on Old Station Beat?
Old Station Beat holds Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Grayling, Pike, Wild Trout. 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?
Old Station Beat is bank-fishing only — no wading is permitted.
Is a ghillie available, and do I need one?
A ghillie is available on Old Station 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 Old Station 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?
Old Station Beat permits the following fly methods: dry_fly, nymph, wet_fly. The fly recommendations section on the Old Station 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 Old Station Beat at Bossington Estate Fly Fishery — 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 welcome on Old Station Beat — please keep them under control near the water and respect any local rules shown on the page.