The Wilderness

The Wilderness covers 5 miles of main-river chalk stream on the River Kennet, in Berkshire, making it one of the more substantial single-beat offerings on this Berkshire chalk stream. Though the Kennet runs only 22 miles from source to Newbury, 18th-century water engineers created more than 80 miles of fishable water through a maze of carriers, and a beat of this length gives genuine scope to explore varied water, from open glides to tighter, tree-lined runs. The river fishes fly only, with both dry fly and nymph permitted, and the difficulty rating reflects water that rewards experience and a considered approach rather than simply covering the bank.

The River Kennet holds a thriving population of wild brown trout and grayling, with the fishery moderately stocked with young brown trout to help maintain numbers. The river is also home to the legendary Kennet "greenback," a unique strain of wild brown trout; each season a lucky few anglers manage to encounter one. The trout season runs 1 April to 30 September. Spring brings olive hatches combined with grannom and hawthorn, giving way to impressive mayfly, followed by excellent evening fishing through summer as caddis flies gather. The mayfly arrives comparatively late relative to other southern chalk streams, with the best sport often found in the first weeks of June. September can be a productive month for stalking wary risers, though a stealthy approach is often required as water levels drop. Chub, Perch, Pike, Brown Trout, Grayling are all present on the beat, giving variety across the season.

This is a guided-only beat. Guided days are available from £665, with a guide on hand throughout the day, which is only available on Thursdays. On-bank facilities include a fishing hut, rod room, toilets, and refreshments, so a full day on the water is well catered for without needing to leave the beat.