Testwood Beat

on the River Test

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The jewel of the Testwood beat is the wonderful Testwood Pool. Part of the historic Barker-Mill Estate, owned by the family since 1527, this lower Test beat offers a unique mixed-species fly fishing experience in both tidal and non-tidal water. Anglers can sight fish for trout, sea trout, bass and specimen coarse fish in crystal chalk stream water, with amazing mayfly hatches offering the opportunity of sea trout on a dry fly. Salmon fishing is currently suspended to protect the chalk stream salmon population. The beat is served by a charming mill-house with comfortable members' facilities, sleeping cabins for night sea trout anglers, catering facilities and two riverside huts.

Rods
Up to 3
Difficulty
Beginner (1/5)
Price
–
Length
–

Stocking & Fish Species

Brown Trout
Sea Trout
Bass
Coarse Fish

Rules & Policies

Catch & Release
EA Rod License Required
Dogs Allowed
Ghillie Available
Ghillie Required
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Fishing Methods

upstream dry fly
upstream nymph
Wading Allowed
Bank Fishing Only
Double Bank

Amenities

Mill-house members' facilities Sleeping cabins Catering facilities Two riverside huts

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 Testwood Beat at any one time?
Testwood Beat allows a maximum of 3 rods at any one time.
What species can I expect to catch on Testwood Beat?
Testwood Beat holds Brown Trout, Sea Trout, Bass, Coarse Fish. The water is unstocked, relying entirely on the wild population.
Do I need to wade, or can I fish from the bank?
Wading arrangements for Testwood Beat are listed on the beat page — contact the provider if you need to confirm before arriving.
Is a ghillie available, and do I need one?
No ghillie service is listed for Testwood Beat — contact the provider directly if you'd like informal guidance on your first visit.
Where do I park, and how do I access the beat?
Parking details for Testwood 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?
Testwood Beat is fished by upstream dry fly and upstream nymph. The fly recommendations section on the Testwood 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 Testwood Beat — 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 Testwood 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.