Old Stews Beat

on the River Test
Book now from £328

No images available

Extensively restored in 2015, the Old Stews Beat has been masterfully transformed into one of the most dynamic and engaging stretches of water on the estate. Already a highly sought-after destination, this meticulous river restoration project has elevated the beat into a premier chalk stream habitat. Today, it offers an unparalleled, feature-rich environment—often described as a paradise for both the thriving trout population and the discerning fly fisher. The careful enhancement of the riverbed and margins provides perfect lies for the fish and a beautifully varied, highly productive canvas for anglers to cast over.

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£398 /day
Main Season13 Jun – 11 Oct£328 /day

Book Through

Bossington Estate Fly Fishery Primary
£328 – £398
Book

Stocking & Fish Species

light stocking

Rules & Policies

Catch & Release
Bag limit: 2 fish
EA Rod License Required
Dogs Allowed
Ghillie Available
Ghillie Required
Season: 13 Apr – 11 Oct
Season In season · 13 Apr – 11 Oct
Visit Website

Bossington Estate Fly Fishery

View fishery →

Location

📍 51.07762, -1.50944

View on map →

Fishing Methods

Fly Only

Fly Methods

Dry Fly Nymph Emerger
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 flies nets accommodation

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 Stews Beat at any one time?
Old Stews 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 Stews Beat?
Old Stews Beat on the River Test holds wild brown trout and, on many stretches, grayling — check the Fish Species section on the beat page for the confirmed list. The beat is light-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 Stews Beat is bank-fishing only — no wading is permitted.
Is a ghillie available, and do I need one?
A ghillie is available on Old Stews 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 Stews 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 Stews Beat permits the following fly methods: dry_fly, nymph, emerger. The fly recommendations section on the Old Stews 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 Stews 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 Stews Beat — please keep them under control near the water and respect any local rules shown on the page.