The Parsonage
on the River TestThe Parsonage at dusk
Situated on the magnificent Middle River Test just downstream of Timsbury, The Parsonage Beat offers a wonderfully diverse and secluded chalk stream experience. This highly regarded fishery provides the perfect "best of both worlds" scenario, combining the classic, beginner-friendly dimensions of the main river with the engaging waters of a long carrier stream, making it an absolutely idyllic setting for a relaxed family day out.
The expansive main river section provides a highly accessible and forgiving environment, making it an excellent place for novices and younger family members to hone their casting skills and build confidence. It features sweeping glides and notably deep holding water beneath wooded far banks. Because of this depth, sight-fishing is not the easiest, but the open nature of the river presents a wonderfully relaxed environment to practice reading the water and covering likely lies without the stress of tight, technical casting. In wonderful contrast, the expansive carrier stream offers a more intimate chalk stream environment. Its peaty banks and clean gravel sections provide richly varied sport and a slightly different pace alongside the main flow.
Complete with excellent facilities for entertaining, the beat boasts a comfortable riverside Cabin, a BBQ area perfect for a family riverside lunch, and a quaint thatched shelter at the top boundary. Whether you are introducing beginners to the sport on the forgiving main river or simply enjoying a group outing, The Parsonage provides a deeply relaxing day of dry fly and nymph fishing tailored for all ability levels.
Indicative prices only. This calendar does not show whether a beat is bookable or already booked out, and other prices may apply. Always confirm availability and the final price with the booking provider before you travel.
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More on the River Test
Chilbolton Fishing Beat
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Timsbury 5
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From £180 · 0.53 miles · fly only
Wallop Brook
From £328 · 2 miles · fly only
Rising at Ashe, near Overton, the River Test runs for 40 miles through Hampshire, flowing south through Whitchurch, Longparish, and Wherwell before the Rivers Dever and Anton join the main channel…
FishingBeats is an independent guide with no affiliation to the fisheries we list. Listings are editorial and unpaid, and are not supplied or approved by the fishery. See our listings policy. Listing details are compiled by FishingBeats and may change or contain mistakes. Some services, such as tuition, ghillies, or accommodation, may only apply to certain packages and not to standard day tickets. Always confirm pricing, access, and what is included directly with the beat before you book. Spotted something wrong? Email hello@fishingbeats.com and we will correct it.
FAQ
The Parsonage FAQs
Practical questions anglers ask before fishing this beat, from tickets to tactics.
01How many rods are allowed on The Parsonage at any one time?
02What species can I expect to catch on The Parsonage?
03Do I need to wade, or can I fish from the bank?
04Is a ghillie available, and do I need one?
05Where do I park, and how do I access the beat?
06What tackle should I bring?
07What happens if conditions are poor on the day I've booked?
08Are dogs allowed on the beat?
Articles about The Parsonage
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
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.
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.
