Dog Friendly Fly Fishing

River Itchen

Qing Ya Xi

Qing Ya Xi (pronounced "king-yah-zee") sits on the lower River Itchen at Brambridge, Hampshire, roughly six miles south of Winchester. The beat offers approximately 1,522 metres of double-bank fly fishing on the Itchen Navigation — a modified channel of the river and former canal running just over ten miles from Winchester to Southampton. The Itchen is classified as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), its clear waters, steady flow, and high levels of dissolved minerals creating a unique ecosystem that sustains an abundance of invertebrates. The beat divides into distinct sections: the top 200 metres of fast water offers what one member of the English Fly Fishing Team described as "possibly the best Grayling fishing in Hampshire"; the first sluice down to the old lock gates provides classic dry fly fishing, and the turning pool below provides gravel spawning grounds with an abundance of smaller trout, grayling, and salmon parr; below this lies a slower-flowing length where the larger fish abound and may still be caught when fish are proving challenging in the top two sections. Target species are brown trout, grayling, and — given the beat's proximity to tidal water — the occasional Atlantic salmon. The Navigation supports a wild population of brown trout together with good numbers of grayling, supplemented by regular and controlled stockings of brown trout sourced from local suppliers. April hatches include the Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis, and Hawthorn, with Mayfly from mid-May to early June. Blue-winged olive and sedge are prolific through summer, and September sees the return of the Large Dark Olive to close the season on 30 September. The open-banked calmer sections suit beginners well, with straightforward upstream presentation; the hatch pool and faster carrier will test more experienced rods. Up to three rods fish the beat, priced from £211 in summer, £245 in early season, and £358 during Mayfly. A fishing room with electricity, running water, WC, and car parking are on site. The beat sits within easy reach of Winchester (six miles) and Southampton (eight miles), with M3 junction 12 just 1.5 miles away and mainline trains to London Waterloo from nearby Shawford in around 70 minutes.

River Dun

Dunbridge

A third of a mile of single-bank dry fly water on the lower River Dun, the Dunbridge beat sits just upstream of the hamlet of Dunbridge in Hampshire's Test Valley, a short distance before the river joins the Test near Kimbridge. The Dun runs for around 11 miles in a generally easterly direction through rural parts of Wiltshire and Hampshire, and is smaller and less prolific than other rivers in Hampshire, but can be quieter during busy periods — a genuine advantage on a beat limited to one or two rods. The water here has classic chalk stream character: a long glide of relatively shallow water upstream of a footbridge, and a deep pool midway up where the river takes a left turn. From the car park, it is a walk of around 100 metres through a meadow to reach the river. A survey of all the Test's tributaries reportedly found that the Dun holds the highest numbers of wild trout of any of them, and the Dunbridge beat carries moderate stocking alongside that wild population. Brown trout and grayling are both present. Like the Itchen, the Dun is home to protected species including the great crested newt, so the environment is carefully managed. The season runs 1 May to 30 September, covering the full chalk stream hatch calendar. The hawthorn hatch falls in late April, with the mayfly running from mid-May to early June — the latter priced at £395 per rod. Medium olive and blue-winged olive hatches carry the fishing through summer, with dry fly the primary method throughout; nymphing is also permitted. The intimate scale and clear water make accurate presentation essential, and the beat is rated as adventurer difficulty. A 9ft 4–5wt rod with a fine tippet suits the conditions. Day rods are priced from £225 (early season) to £275 (main season). The fishing hut is sited near the top of the beat and is well appointed, with WC and car parking on site. The hamlet is served by Mottisfont & Dunbridge station on the Wessex Main Line, making this one of the more accessible chalk stream beats in Hampshire for car-free anglers.

River Test

Old Station Beat

Old Station Beat is a restored 450-metre length of main River Test on Bossington Estate, situated immediately below the hallowed Houghton Club water near the village of Houghton in Hampshire. Following an ambitious habitat restoration programme carried out in collaboration with the Environment Agency, the beat was transformed from an over-wide, over-deep channel into a free-flowing chalk stream, and today offers a varied mix of runs, riffles and pools on a single bank. Up to twelve rods can fish the beat across the season, which runs from mid-April to mid-October. The beat is at its best during the Mayfly and offers a plentiful mix of stocked and wild fish throughout the season. Stocked brown trout run from two pounds upwards, with wild trout and the occasional grayling also present. In April, look for Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis and Hawthorn on the surface; May brings the first Mayfly hatch of the year alongside other upwings and terrestrials, while June sees Blue-Winged Olive and Medium Olives come through. Dry fly and nymph are the primary methods, and the beat is rated suitable for beginners — a good choice for an angler new to chalk stream fishing who wants to learn the basics of presentation and reading water on the Test. All fishing is catch and release. GAIA- and AAPGAI-qualified instructors are available for one-to-one or group tuition covering fly-fishing fieldcraft and casting, and guided days can also be arranged to accompany you on the river, particularly useful for a novice angler. A good supply of high-quality tackle, clothing, sunglasses and flies is available to hire on the day. Catering runs from picnic hampers supplied by a local deli through to full corporate lunches, with options available through the Estate office. Day rod prices are £328 across all periods of the season.

River Test

School Farm

School Farm offers just under half a mile of single-bank fly fishing on a tributary of the River Test in Hampshire — the intimate, carrier-style water that characterises so much of the Test valley, where the river exists as an amalgam of main channel, tributaries, carriers, and side streams. The stream runs clear and steady year-round, as chalk streams fed primarily by aquifers show less seasonal variation in flow rate and temperature than other rivers, giving consistent conditions from the April opening through to the 4 October close. Brown and rainbow trout are both present and the beat is heavily stocked, making it a sound choice for less experienced fly fishers getting to grips with chalk stream technique. Dry fly and nymph are both permitted, and there is plenty of opportunity for each across the season. In April, expect Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis, and Hawthorn on the water. May brings the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other up-wings and terrestrials, while June sees Blue-Winged Olive and Medium Olives coming through. The mayfly window — priced at £559 per rod — is the most sought-after period on any Test water. On bright summer days, nymph fishing comes into its own when nothing is visibly rising. Early season rods are available from £308 and summer days from £388. The beat accommodates two to three rods, keeping the water uncrowded. A fishing cabin, WC, and car parking are all on site, so a full day's fishing needs no additional logistics. A 9-ft rod for a 4- or 5-weight line suits the intimate scale of tributary water well. A valid EA rod licence is required before fishing.

River Test

Wallop Brook

Two miles of double-bank chalk stream running from its confluence with the River Test up to the village of Broughton, the Wallop Brook is a Hampshire tributary of the middle Test managed by Bossington Estate Fly Fishery, near Houghton. The beat divides into two distinct sections: the lower part flows through riparian woodland, while the upstream reach opens out across traditional ridge and furrow water meadows. The brook is narrow and intimate — a different proposition to the manicured main-river beats — and fishes like any true chalk stream, rewarding patience and stealth. The Wallop Brook is wild trout fishing with no stocking and all catch and release. Good olive hatches occur most days, and the trout, while willing to look up, sit deep and take the dry fly quickly — be prepared to miss a few. April brings Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis and Hawthorn, while May sees the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other upwings — the mayfly period carries a £398 day rod rate, reflecting the quality of sport on offer. June brings Blue-Winged Olive and Medium Olives, with the season running through to 31 August. The wooded lower section demands a compact casting stroke and a careful approach; a short brook rod in the 7–8 ft range suits the tighter lies. Up to 12 rods fish the brook at £328 per rod for most of the season. GAIA and AAPGAI-qualified instructors are available for one-to-one or group tuition covering fly-fishing fieldcraft and casting, making this a practical option for anglers new to wild-fish chalk stream technique. A good supply of high-quality tackle, clothing, sunglasses and flies is available to hire, and the beat has a fishing hut and toilet facilities on site. Catering and picnic hampers can be arranged, and the estate regularly hosts corporate days with full catering.

River Anton

Upper Clatford

A short stretch of the River Anton — a classic Hampshire chalk stream and one of the four main tributaries to the River Test — the Upper Clatford beat sits in the Anton valley, 3.5 miles upstream from where the river meets the Test. At just over a fifth of a mile, this is an intimate piece of water, and its tributary character means the river here is narrow and intimate, with narrow, fast-flowing gravel sections home to feisty wild trout. The Pillhill Brook, the Anton's principal tributary, joins the river at Upper Clatford, adding extra flow and variety to the beat. Banks are kept clear for walkways while streamside vegetation is encouraged, and the surrounds are largely made up of pasture land and old English woodland that have remained relatively unchanged for generations. The Anton is known for its prolific fly life and holds some very large wild brown trout and grayling. The beat is rated as adventurer difficulty — expect overhanging trees, tight casting angles, and fish that have seen pressure. The river flows crystal clear for almost the whole season, making it a genuine sight-fishery where you can target specific fish. Stocking is light, so the emphasis is on wild fish. Luscious beds of ranunculus support an abundance of fly life with good hatches visible almost year-round — mayfly brings the peak Mayfly Season rate in late May and early June, while small olives trickle off through mid-morning to mid-afternoon in autumn, and evening sedge hatches extend well into the summer months. Even in winter the river runs exceptionally clear, offering fine grayling fishing — challenging, but with a good population of big fish the rewards are worth the effort. The beat takes one to two rods and is open from 30 April to 30 December, covering trout through to grayling season. Day tickets run from £75 in the grayling season to £284 during mayfly. Wading is permitted, though on a river this clear and compact it is rarely necessary. The Anton is easily accessed, under an hour's drive from Junction 12 on the M25, making it a practical day-trip destination from London or the wider south-east.

River Allen

Wimborne St. Giles - Home Beats

Three beats — Bowerswaine, Upper Brockington and Lower Brockington — make up the Home Beats on the Shaftesbury Estate section of the River Allen, covering 1.6 miles of intimate Dorset chalk stream water near Wimborne St Giles. The Allen starts as a winterbourne on the chalk downland of Cranborne Chase and flows roughly southwards through Wimborne St Giles, arriving at the Home Beats as a clear, manageable stream with a mix of bank fishing and wading sections. Nearly its entire length is under the ownership of just two large estates that have been in the same family for many generations, which keeps pressure low and the water in good condition. The river holds a strong wild brown trout population and is well suited to dry fly fishing, with grayling also present through the season. The Home Beats are lightly stocked to complement the wild fish, and the season runs 1 May to 30 September. The opening weeks are dominated by the grannom hatch, with mayfly following in late May into June, and summer fishing turning to olives, sedges, ants and daddy long legs. The water runs very clear, so stealth is essential — the fish are visible, and so are you. The beat is rated beginner-friendly in terms of access and wading, but the clarity demands a careful approach regardless of experience. A 7.5 ft rod with a 3–4 wt floating line covers most situations, with tippet down to 6x. Up to three rods fish the combined beats, keeping the water uncrowded. Day rod prices run from £75 in late season to £165 in early season, making this one of the more accessible entry points onto a genuinely private Dorset chalk stream. The water has been carefully tended by river keeper Stewart Hand for over twenty years, and on-site parking is available.

River Lambourn

Donnington Grove

Donnington Grove offers just under two-thirds of a mile of single-bank chalk stream fishing on the River Lambourn, near the village of Donnington in Berkshire. The Lambourn is a classic chalk stream — small and fast-flowing, and this beat reflects that character: powered entirely from chalk springs, which produces exceptionally clear water and year-round stable temperatures. The river's flow regime remains near-natural in form, not being significantly modified by groundwater abstraction — a rarity among southern chalk streams that keeps the water quality and aquatic life in excellent condition. The Lambourn sits in the top 10% for England and Wales for the number of macroinvertebrate families recorded, which underpins the quality of hatches throughout the season. The river supports one of the best and most productive fisheries for brown trout in the area, with natural populations of grayling also present. Stocking is light, so the fish are predominantly wild and accordingly wary — this beat is rated legend difficulty, and while the nutrient-rich water allows trout and grayling to grow to large sizes, the clarity makes them hard to tempt. Dry fly and nymph are the only permitted methods. The hawthorn hatch happens around the end of April, with the mayfly running from mid-May to the end of the second week in June — reflected in the dedicated Mayfly Season day rod at £124. In the second half of the season, small flies delicately fished are the key. Grayling fishing extends the season well into winter at £63 per rod. Wading is permitted, which is often essential on this intimate stream. A fishing hut and toilets are on site.

River Nadder

Compton Chamberlayne Beat 1

Beat 1 at Compton Chamberlayne covers around 0.38 miles of the River Nadder near Dinton in Wiltshire, just west of Salisbury. It is the most open of all the beats on the fishery, with the downstream section running through the water meadows and the top section more shaded with trees and a deep pool. The Nadder is deeply incised in the ground, with a series of serpentine bends slowing its flow and creating sequences of riffles through to deep pools. It is classified as a mixed-geology chalk stream — flowing over chalk where the main fishing takes place, but rising in sands and clay, which means it can carry a slight tinge of colour and may cloud more noticeably after heavy rain. Brown and rainbow trout are the target species, with the beat heavily stocked throughout the season, which runs from 18 April to 3 October. Fly fishing only, with upstream dry fly the method from the season opener. From 1 July, upstream nymph up to size 12 may also be used. The Nadder fishes well from the off, with strong early-season hatches of large dark olives and grannom — the latter in particular can drive trout into a feeding frenzy and make for a memorable season opener. The main event is the mayfly, which can be spectacularly good even after heavy rain and poor visibility. Through summer, long evenings bring hatches of olives and sedges that keep brown trout rising well into the dusk. The beat is rated as adventurer difficulty — the open water meadow character of the lower section suits a range of abilities, but the deeper, tree-lined upper pool demands more considered presentation. Up to six rods can fish the beat in a day. Wading is permitted but generally not necessary. A fishing hut is on site for shelter and kit storage. Catch returns should be delivered to the river keeper at the end of the day. A current Environment Agency rod licence is required.

River Dever

Bullington Manor Beat 1

The River Dever is a Hampshire chalk stream and is also known locally as the Bullington Stream. Bullington Manor Beat 1 sits on the upper Dever near Upper Bullington, a village the river passes through on its westward course from its source near Micheldever. The beat runs double-bank from just upstream of the old mill, though only one bank is prepared for fishing at any given point — anglers work the left bank upstream to the midway mark, then cross to fish the opposite bank back down, making it a particularly comfortable draw for left-handers. It is the narrowest of the Bullington Manor beats, with two well-defined hatch pools and a quieter, rarely pressured section beyond a disused railway viaduct. Up to six rods can be accommodated, though the intimate scale of the water suits smaller parties well. Like the other upper Test tributaries, the Dever is known for the clarity of its water, with fish highly visible as they hang in front of beds of starwort and tip up to sip passing insects. Brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling are all present. The clear water lends itself to sight fishing with both dry fly and nymph, and the beat is rated suitable for beginners — the relatively straightforward bank configuration and visible fish make it a sound introduction to chalk stream fly fishing. The hawthorn hatch arrives in late April, the mayfly runs from mid-May to early June, and summer brings a variety of caddis, olives, and terrestrials. Grayling fishing extends the season through to 14 December. An 8½ ft rod with a 3–5wt floating line is the recommended outfit, with tippet down to 2lb/6x. Day rod prices run from £125 (grayling only) to £395 during the mayfly window. The beat shares a mill cabin with Beat 2, and car parking is on site. Additional cabin accommodation — including the Buckingham Palace fishing cabin and Dever Castle cabin — is available at the fishery.

River Dever

Bullington Manor Beat 2

Half a mile of single-bank chalk stream on the River Dever near Bullington in Hampshire, Beat 2 at Bullington Manor sits on one of the Test's most characterful tributaries. The Dever rises near West Stratton and flows for nearly 10 miles before joining the main river between Wherwell and Barton Stacey. Much narrower and more tightly enclosed than the main Test, the Dever demands stealth, light tackle, and precise upstream presentations. Like the other upper Test tributaries it is known for the clarity of its water, with fish highly visible, hanging in front of big beds of starwort and lazily tipping up to sip passing insects. This is intimate, exploratory water — the "adventurer" difficulty rating reflects a stream that rewards careful reading and punishes a heavy footfall. The beat holds brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling, with moderate stocking supplementing resident fish through a season running 20 April to 14 October. The mayfly is the most celebrated hatch of the chalk stream season, a hatch that drives all river life crazy — ducks, dragonflies, and of course big trout — and Mayfly Season pricing (£395) reflects the premium those weeks command. The Large Dark Olive is one of the first main hatches of the season, usually brief each day but quite prolific, and these hatches inevitably get good trout moving. As August slips into September, cooler and damper weather spurs fresh hatches of olives, including the Blue-Winged Olive — a key period for both trout and grayling before the season closes. Dry fly and nymph are both permitted; fly only throughout. A fishing hut is on site. Up to six rods can be accommodated, making this a viable option for a small group day. A 9ft 3- or 4-weight is the practical choice for a river of this scale. Early and late-season day tickets start from £125 for grayling-only fishing, rising through £175 for the combined trout and grayling period.

River Dever

Bullington Manor Beat 3

Half a mile of single-bank dry fly and nymph water on the River Dever near Bullington, Hampshire, Beat 3 at Bullington Manor sits on one of the most intimate chalk stream tributaries in the Test system. The Dever rises at West Stratton near Micheldever and flows westwards for 11 miles to meet the Test at Wherwell, passing through Upper and Lower Bullington along the way. Narrower and more tightly enclosed than the main Test, the Dever demands stealth, light tackle, and precise upstream presentations. At Bullington the river is an exquisite example of a chalk stream — its water astonishingly clear and gentle-flowing, allowing individual fish to be observed in detail. Fish are highly visible, hanging in front of beds of starwort and tipping up from time to time to sip passing insects. The beat targets brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling on a fly-only, lightly stocked basis, and is rated expert — this is sight-fishing water where presentation and reading the fish matter far more than covering the bank. The river has good hatches of the main groups of upwinged flies, and in recent years Grannom have reportedly made a reappearance. Mayfly season (priced at £395) is the peak window, with olives and blue-winged olives carrying the fishing through summer and into the grayling season from late September. The season runs 20 April to 14 Oct, with day rod prices ranging from £125 for grayling-only days up to £395 during Mayfly. Habitat restoration work near Bullington has created pools with gravel glides at their tails, new riffles, and pinched channel sections that give the beat varied character and defined lies. Up to six rods can be accommodated, and a fishing hut is available on site. Bank fishing only; waders are not required but are useful for approaching fish on the far bank.

River Dever

Bullington Manor Beat 4

Half a mile of fly-only water on the River Dever near Bullington, Beat 4 sits on one of the Test's most characterful major tributaries — a chalk stream that rises near West Stratton and flows for nearly ten miles before joining the main river between Wherwell and Barton Stacey. Much narrower and more tightly enclosed than the main Test, the Dever demands stealth, light tackle, and precise upstream presentations — and the Bullington stretch, fished from the bank only, exemplifies that character. Like the other upper Test tributaries, the Dever is known for the clarity of its water, with fish highly visible, hanging in front of big beds of starwort and tipping up to sip passing insects. The beat holds brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling, and is heavily stocked through the season. Fishing is dry fly and nymph only. Grannom is the first sedge to hatch in spring, emerging in April and lasting around two weeks — a useful early-season trigger on a beat that opens 20 April. The mayfly hatch in late May and early June is the headline event, reflected in the Mayfly Season day ticket of £395. Through summer, the Dever comes alive during evening hatches of olives, and the blue-winged olive can be found on the water all summer, with June and September known for the heaviest hatches, the emergence typically beginning in the late afternoon or early evening and continuing until dark. Grayling extend the season to 13 December, with day tickets from £125. The beat is rated Adventurer difficulty — the Dever's intimate, enclosed nature rewards experienced anglers who can read the water and place a fly accurately. Up to six rods can fish the beat on any given day, with a fishing hut on site providing shelter and a base for the day. A 9ft 3- or 4-weight rod with a long, fine leader suits the conditions well. Day tickets run from £125 in the grayling-only period to £395 during mayfly. The Dever is around one hour thirty minutes by road or train from London, making it a practical destination from most of southern England.

Hampshire Avon

Coombe Mill

Just under a mile of single-bank dry fly and nymph water on the Hampshire Avon, Coombe Mill sits on the upper chalk stream reach of this historic Wiltshire river. The Avon rises near the Wiltshire/Berkshire border and flows southward for over 40 miles, and for trout fishermen the pick of the beats are upstream of Salisbury, especially over Salisbury Plain — the country where Frank Sawyer keepered and developed the Pheasant Tail Nymph. One of the most varied chalk streams in the UK, with over 180 species of aquatic plant recorded, it also has one of the most diverse populations of fish, plant and wildlife. Persistent heavy rain early in the season can leave the river a little coloured, but it clears quickly, and from summer through to the end of the season the water clarity is comparable to that of many chalk streams. The beat targets wild brown trout and grayling on a fly-only, catch-and-release basis, rated as explorer-level water — expect fish that have seen pressure and reward careful presentation over brute-force casting. The trout season opens in time to catch hatches of grannom and large dark olives, and consistently good fly hatches — especially mayfly (Greendrake), which once started can continue for many weeks — make the Avon a firm favourite for fly fishermen. The classic Wessex chalk streams such as the Avon, Test and Itchen have mayfly hatches starting at the end of May and carrying on to early June. Blue-winged olives and sedges carry the fishing through summer and into autumn. Grayling in the Hampshire Avon are thought to be an original, native population, and on the chalk streams they are usually only targeted from October through to the end of December. The grayling season here runs to 30 December, making this a genuinely year-round beat. Up to three rods fish the bank simultaneously. Rods of between 7½ and 9 ft rated from 3# to 5# lines are the norm, with the longer and slightly heavier outfits suited to wider stretches of the Avon. A 9 ft leader is a sensible minimum. Day-rod pricing runs from £81 in the grayling season to £232 during the mayfly, with main-season days at £156. A fishing hut and toilets are on site. Wading is not permitted; all fishing is from the bank.

River Dove

Cotton's Fishing Temple

Sitting on a narrow meander of the River Dove in Beresford Dale, Derbyshire, Cotton's Fishing Temple beat carries more angling history than almost anywhere else in England. Charles Cotton built his fishing house here in 1674, its stone doorway inscribed with the entwined initials of Cotton and Izaak Walton — *Piscatoribus Sacrum*, a sacred place for anglers — and Cotton's account of fishing the Dove remains one of the finest early treatises on modern fly fishing. The beat runs for just under 0.68 miles through this limestone gorge, where the tree-lined river tumbles over weirs and through pools on the upper Dove, close to Hartington. The fishing is predominantly for wild brown trout and grayling, lightly stocked and fished on a strict catch-and-release basis. This is expert-level water: the temperature and clarity of the limestone-fed river are ideal for both species, but the clear water and educated fish demand precise presentation. Flies revolve around olives, caddis, and terrestrials, with a worthwhile mayfly hatch in late spring — reflected in the beat's higher Mayfly Season day-rod price of £125. Grayling hold station on the shallow, clean gravel beds and fish well into the winter on nymph and dry fly, with a dedicated Grayling Season rod available from £35. Up to three rods fish the beat, with a fishing hut on site for shelter. A #5 or #6 weight outfit is ideal, with general patterns in sizes 12 to 16. Early Season rods are priced at £75, with the Main Season at £65. The beat is accessed near Hartington in the Peak District — just under a mile from the village — and the season runs from 31 March through to 27 February, covering both the trout and grayling seasons in full.

River Test

Ginger Beer

Sitting on the middle River Test at Kimbridge, Hampshire — between the towns of Romsey and Stockbridge — Ginger Beer is a third of a mile of single-bank chalk stream fishing on one of England's most historically significant rivers. The beat opens with a deep hatch pool at its head before becoming significantly shallower downstream, and away from that upper pool the river bed is clearly visible, along with the fish holding above it. The Test's high alkalinity and clarity, combined with rich aquatic insect and shrimp life, sustain a flourishing ecosystem that keeps fish in condition and feeding throughout the season. The beat holds brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling, all heavily stocked, making it well suited to anglers new to chalk stream fishing. Fishing for trout is restricted to dry fly or nymph, presented upstream only. April sees hatches of Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis, and Hawthorn, with the mayfly running from mid-May through to early June. June brings Blue-Winged Olive and Medium Olives, while the grayling season extends the fishing well into autumn and winter. The season runs 2 April to 13 December, with day rod prices of £250 in the main season, £300 during the mayfly window, and £95 for grayling-only days. Up to four rods can book the beat exclusively. All fishing is catch and release. A thatched fishing hut with a well-tended lawn sits right on the water, with toilet facilities on site. A 9-ft, 4- or 5-weight rod covers most situations; carry a selection of upstream nymphs alongside your dry fly box for brighter days when fish are reluctant to rise to the surface.

River Test

Home Beat

Sitting on the middle Test, south of Houghton, the Home Beat is the flagship stretch of Bossington Estate's six-beat fishery on the River Test in Hampshire. The estate sits immediately below the hallowed Houghton Club water, placing this beat in one of the most historically significant reaches of any chalk stream in England. The river here was the haunt of fishing nobility such as Halford and Skues, and the water reflects that legacy — clear, spring-fed, and carrying the characteristic steady flow of a well-managed middle Test main river. Brown trout and rainbow trout are the primary quarry, with grayling also present. Fishing is fly only — dry fly, nymph, and emerger — on a strict catch-and-release basis, with moderate stocking supplementing a resident wild population. The season opens in April with large dark olives, grannom caddis, and hawthorn on the water, before May brings the first mayfly hatch alongside other upwings. The mayfly period on the main Test typically starts around 15 May, and a dedicated Mayfly Season day rod is priced at £398, reflecting the quality of sport on offer. Standard rods run at £328 from 13 April to 11 October, with up to twelve rods on the beat. The beat is bank fishing only, making it accessible to beginners, and GAIA and AAPGAI-qualified instructors are available for one-to-one or group tuition covering fly-fishing fieldcraft and casting. The Victorian thatched fishing hut on the Home Beat can host a full catered three-course lunch for groups of six or more rods, and sits with commanding views downstream along the beat. High-quality tackle, clothing, sunglasses, and flies are available to hire from the estate, making this a practical choice for visiting anglers travelling light. Accommodation is available on the estate, and Bossington is located just downstream of Stockbridge, with easy road access from the south and midlands.

River Test

Home Stream Beat

Home Stream Beat sits on the middle River Test at Bossington Estate in Hampshire, immediately below the Houghton Club water, offering a varied mix of main river and carrier fishing that suits a wide range of conditions. The Test at this point is not a single channel — it runs as an amalgam of main river, carriers and side streams, sometimes two or three running parallel, and Home Stream makes the most of that character: deep holding pools above the historic sluice give way to a lively main carrier connecting the Old Stews Beat to the lower Home water, giving the rod a genuine change of pace within a single day. The season opens in April with hatches of Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis and Hawthorn, before May brings the mayfly — the most anticipated hatch on the Test — alongside other upwings and terrestrials. June sees Blue-Winged Olive and Medium Olives come through, and a strong population of freshwater shrimp means nymph fishing with shrimp imitations can be productive throughout. The beat holds brown trout, rainbow trout, grayling and wild fish, lightly stocked and fished entirely catch-and-release. Trout here are free-rising to a well-presented dry fly, and the beat is rated suitable for beginners — particularly given that GAIA and AAPGAI-qualified instructors are available for one-to-one or group tuition covering fly-fishing fieldcraft and casting. Full equipment hire — rods, reels, lines, flies, clothing and polarised sunglasses — is available, so arriving without a full kit is no barrier. Day rod prices run from £328 in the early and main season to £398 during mayfly, with up to twelve rods on the water. A fishing hut and toilets are on site, and catering and corporate day packages are available.

River Test

House Beat

Sitting at the confluence of the River Test and Wallop Brook, between the Home Beat and Bossington Mill, the House Beat occupies one of the more characterful positions on the middle Test in Hampshire. The Georgian Bossington House, framed by cedars of Lebanon and set against west-facing water meadows, forms the backdrop — a pastoral setting that gives the beat a strong sense of place. An 800-metre length of chalk stream habitat was restored on the House and Home beats as part of a significant river restoration project, replacing degraded, canal-like flows with streaming flows and beds of water-crowfoot over a gravel substrate. The beat offers a mix of manicured Test fishing and additional sport from a small island that carries terrestrial SSSI designation. The River Test is fly fished for wild brown trout, stocked rainbows, and grayling, and all three are present here. Stocking is light, with wild fish a genuine part of the catch. The season opens with Large Dark Olive, grannom caddis, and hawthorn in April; the mayfly runs from mid-May to early June, commanding its own premium price tier at £398 per rod. June brings blue-winged olives and medium olives, with dry fly and emerger fishing carrying through the summer. The beat suits beginners and those new to chalk stream fishing — GAIA and AAPGAI-qualified instructors are available for one-to-one or group tuition covering fly-fishing fieldcraft and casting. The season runs 13 April to 11 October, with day rods priced at £328 in early and main season. Up to 12 rods can fish the beat, making it well-suited to corporate or group days. Access is via the back drive to a designated parking area and bespoke fishing hut; toilets, nets, and flies are also provided on-site, and accommodation is available through the estate. Bossington Estate is approximately one hour and fifty minutes' drive from central London, with rail connections via Winchester also practical.

River Frome

Ilsington

Six miles of fly-only chalk stream on the River Frome, the Ilsington beat sits downstream of Dorchester in the heart of Dorset, on the river's course between West Stafford and Bovington — a section where the Frome, at 30 miles long, is considered the major chalk stream of southwest England. Long held as a private syndicate, Ilsington has only recently become available to visiting rods, with close to five miles to discover. The river carries classic chalk stream features: riffles, pools, glides and overhanging trees, with sight fishing in crystal-clear water throughout. Wild brown trout and grayling are the primary quarry. Trout over 3lb are regularly caught, and parties will often land thirty fish or more between them. The fish most closely associated with the Frome is the grayling — the river has previously produced record fish, and specimens approaching the four-pound mark are caught most seasons. Over the years, the Frome has thrice laid claim to the British grayling record, each fish weighing over 4lb. The lower river also sees reasonable runs of salmon and sea trout. The season runs 1 April to 30 November. The Frome is less affected by abstraction than any other chalk stream, so the fishing holds up well throughout: upwinged flies dominate April and early May, mayfly hatches are excellent from mid-May until mid-June, and high summer evenings in July and August can be surprisingly productive with hatches of Pale Wateries, Blue-Winged Olives and sedges extending well into autumn. The beat accepts one to four rods and is rated suitable for beginners, making it a practical choice for a group or a guided day. A 7.5ft rod with a 3–4wt floating line is the recommended trout outfit for dry fly and nymph work; a longer 9ft rod suits the deeper glides and grayling nymphing later in the season. Day ticket prices run from £100 for a grayling day to £131 in summer, rising to £236 during the mayfly. Car parking and a fishing hut are on site. All wild fish are returned.

River Test

Middleton Estate

The Middleton Estate beat flows through the hamlet of Forton, just downstream of Longparish in Hampshire — 1.1 miles of main chalk stream on the upper River Test, where the river passes through some of its most intimate and characterful reaches. Fishing is from the bank only, with up to three rods on the water at any one time. The Test here supports one of the richest aquatic environments of any lowland river in England, with more than 232 invertebrate taxa recorded in the river — a natural larder that underpins the quality of the fish. The upper river is narrower and more enclosed than the beats downstream of Stockbridge, and bankside vegetation means this is not open-meadow fishing: the adventurer rating reflects real casting demands, with overhanging trees and dense margins requiring accuracy over distance. The beat is lightly stocked and managed for wild fish, with brown trout and grayling holding in clear, shallow runs where sight-fishing is the primary approach. Both dry fly and nymph are permitted. May brings the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other upwinged species, and June sees an abundance of new flies hatching, including the blue-winged olive and medium olives. The chalk stream's water quality produces extensive aquatic life including mayfly, olives, and shrimp, making weighted nymph patterns effective throughout the season when fish are not visibly rising. September sees the return of the large dark olive, with cooler weather and less sunlight improving the fishing as the season draws to a close on 30 September. All fish are returned. A 9ft 5-weight covers most situations, though a shorter rod can be an advantage in tighter lies. Day rods are priced from £265 in late season to £451 during the mayfly window, with a fishing hut on site for shelter and breaks between sessions.

River Test

Old Stews Beat

Sitting on the middle Test, south of Houghton, the Old Stews Beat is part of Bossington Estate's fishery, which comprises six beats on the River Test. Restored in 2015, what had been an impounded, canal-like section of the river was transformed back into a free-flowing chalk stream, with the Environment Agency noting that increased velocities and improved light now encourage a variety of chalk stream flora and fauna. The result is a feature-rich beat of varied depth and pace — pools, gravel runs, and ranunculus-lined margins — fished from the bank only, with up to twelve rods on the water across the season. The beat holds stocked brown trout from two pounds upwards, wild trout, and the occasional grayling. Fly fishing only, with dry fly, nymph, and emerger all permitted, making it well-suited to beginners working through the season's hatches. April brings large dark olives, grannom caddis, and hawthorn; May sees the first mayfly of the year alongside other upwings and terrestrials, with June adding blue-winged olives and medium olives. September sees the return of the large dark olive as the season runs through to 11 October. Day rods are priced at £328 in the early and main season, rising to £398 during the mayfly. Full equipment hire is available — rods, reels, lines, flies, vests, nets, hats, boots, and polarised sunglasses — making this a practical choice for those new to chalk stream fishing. GAIA and AAPGAI-qualified instructors are on hand for one-to-one or group tuition covering fly-fishing fieldcraft and casting. A fishing hut and toilets are on site, and catering runs from picnic hampers sourced from a local deli through to full corporate days with a three-course lunch. Accommodation is available on the estate.

River Test

Rushams Beat

Rushams is one of the more secluded beats on the middle River Test, sitting within the Bossington Estate fishery near the village of Houghton, close to Stockbridge in Hampshire. The estate's fishing sits immediately below the hallowed Houghton Club water, and the estate as a whole offers 2.5 miles of double-bank fishing on the main river. Rushams itself is bank-only, fly-only water on the main chalk stream channel, with a mix of character that shifts as you move upstream — deeper, cooler pools in the lower half giving way to faster riffles and well-stocked runs toward the fishing hut. The beat holds stocked brown trout from two pounds upwards, wild trout, and the occasional grayling. Dry fly and nymph are both permitted, and the river fishes well across the season. In April, expect hatches of Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis, and Hawthorn. May brings the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other upwings and terrestrials — arguably the finest month on the water. Through summer, a variety of caddis, olives, and terrestrials keep fish looking up. Day rod prices run from £328 in the early and main season, rising to £398 during the mayfly window, with up to 12 rods on the beat for corporate days. GAIA and AAPGAI-qualified instructors are available for one-to-one or group tuition covering fly-fishing fieldcraft and casting — making Rushams a sound choice for less experienced anglers stepping onto chalk stream water for the first time. Full equipment hire is available, covering rods, reels, lines, flies, clothing, and polarised sunglasses, so arriving without a full kit is no obstacle. A fishing hut, toilets, and catering including picnic hampers are on hand, and accommodation can be arranged through the estate. The 2026 season runs from Monday 13th April to Sunday 11th October.

River Test

The Parsonage

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.

Hampshire Avon

Upavon Farm

Upavon Farm sits right at the point where the two headwater streams of the Hampshire Avon converge, placing this 0.3-mile beat at the very top of the main river as it begins its chalk-filtered run southward across Salisbury Plain. To fish this stretch effectively, wading is required — the river here is intimate and heavily vegetated, demanding careful approach and precise presentation. One to two rods are accommodated, keeping the beat uncrowded. This challenging chalk stream offers the keen fly fisher a superb opportunity to fish for quality wild brown trout from April through to early October. From October, the focus shifts to wild grayling as they become more dominant throughout the winter months. The season runs from 14 April to 30 December on a strict catch-and-release, fly-only basis. Dry fly only applies until 30 June; nymphing is permitted thereafter, making the beat particularly well suited to targeting grayling on deep-sunk patterns through autumn and winter. The trout season opens in time to catch early hatches of grannom and large dark olives, and consistently good fly hatches — especially mayfly (greendrake) — make the Avon a firm favourite for fly fishermen. Olives, duns, spinners, caenis, and sedges feature throughout the season; on tippets of 3–6 lb, klinkhammers and parachute-hackled dries in sizes 16–20 work well. For trout fishermen, the pick of the Avon beats are upstream of Salisbury, especially over Salisbury Plain where Frank Sawyer — inventor of the Pheasant Tail Nymph — lived and keepered all his life. A rod between 7 ft and 8 ft 6 in (7 ft favoured) with a floating line rated #3/4/5 depending on wind conditions is recommended for the Upavon stretch. Day rod pricing runs from £74 in the grayling season to £111–£137 in peak summer, with toilet facilities on site. Upavon also hosts two local inns — the Ship and the Antelope — both within two minutes' walk, making it straightforward to base a day's fishing around the village. This is expert-level water: the clarity, the wading, and the dry-fly-only restriction through June demand experience, but the reward is access to some of the most historically significant wild-trout fishing on the upper Avon.

River Wye (Buckinghamshire)

West Wycombe Park

Just under 0.7 miles of double-bank fly fishing on the River Wye, set within the 18th-century landscaped grounds of West Wycombe Park in Buckinghamshire. The Wye runs out from the estate lake over a cascade and flows downstream to Sawmill Pond, with the entire river section fished from both banks. The river is one of six chalk streams in Buckinghamshire, fed by winter rain filling the aquifers beneath the Chiltern Hills. The beat sits close to the river's source, which keeps the water exceptionally clear even by chalk stream standards. The fishing is for brown and rainbow trout on a fly-only, catch-and-release basis with light stocking throughout the season (31 March to 29 September). The water is typically gin clear, which allows anglers to spot and stalk individual fish and watch them take the fly — but those same fish spook readily. The river holds abundant invertebrate life, with weed beds carrying good populations of snail and natural shrimp. Both dry fly and nymph are permitted, though anglers should note that the current can be slow in places, making traditional dry fly presentation challenging on parts of the river, and there is no mayfly hatch. Small nymphs and emerger patterns are the reliable year-round approach. The beat is rated as adventurer difficulty — tight bankside vegetation, slow clear water and wary fish demand careful presentation and accurate casting. The public are permitted to visit the park in the afternoon during summer, so morning sessions tend to offer the most undisturbed fishing. A fishing hut and toilets are available on site. Season rods are priced at £295 for a single rod or £275 per rod for two or more, making this one of the more accessible syndicate chalk stream beats in the Chilterns. West Wycombe Park sits just 29 miles from Hyde Park Corner, making it a practical option for London-based anglers.

River Test

Whitchurch Fulling Mill

The higher you venture up the River Test, the better the hatches, the clearer the water and the wilder the fish — and there is no better way of summing up Whitchurch Fulling Mill. Sitting on the upper Test as it flows through the town of Whitchurch in north Hampshire, this beat covers just under 0.6 miles of main chalk stream channel. The fishing divides into three sections: the Garden beat and a Side Stream downstream of the mill, and an Upper section above it. Wading is welcome throughout, though bank fishing is only practical for part of the Garden section. The Test here is a groundwater-fed chalk stream rising from the Upper Chalk aquifer, maintaining stable, cool, clear flows with consistent water levels averaging 0.5 to 1 metre in channelised sections. The water runs gin-clear and fast, with lovely rafts of ranunculus and ideal conditions for sight fishing — particularly for those who like to wade. Wild trout thrive here alongside grayling, and with that three-way mix of wild, lightly stocked and grayling, there is usually something on the feed. The season opens 30 May and runs to 30 December, with dry fly only the rule until 1 August — after which nymphs come into play for both brown trout and grayling. The mayfly typically runs from mid-May to early June, meaning the Mayfly Season day rate of £425 puts you on the water just as that hatch peaks. Grayling fishing from autumn through to late December is available from £125 per rod. The beat is rated as adventurer-level: the water is exceptionally clear and generally not too deep, so fish are easy to spot but equally easy to spook, demanding careful approach and accurate presentation. Up to two rods share the water. A 9 ft 5-weight is the baseline rod for chalk stream fishing of this kind. Fishing runs from 9.30 am until dusk. A rod room with tea and coffee facilities is available on site, and anglers are welcome to use the summer house in the garden for relaxing and picnicking. The White Hart Hotel in Whitchurch, half a mile away on Newbury Street, serves food and has rooms.

River Test

Timsbury Beat 1

Timsbury Beat 1 sits on the River Test in the village of Timsbury, accessed via a private road through acres of chalk stream water meadows at the heart of the golden stretch of the Test below Stockbridge and above Romsey. The beat covers a third of a mile of main river chalk stream and includes a section of carrier, giving anglers a variety of water within a single day. Each beat at Timsbury consists of a stretch of the main river and a stretch of the carrier, and rods rotate across all four beats so that every angler fishes the whole fishery over the course of the season. Up to two rods fish the beat at any one time, keeping the water uncrowded. The fishery is predominantly a brown trout fishery, stocked with fish carefully selected locally from River Test stock. Itinerant rainbow trout also appear, and later in the season salmon regularly roll in the deeper pools, with a genuine chance of connecting with one or a sea trout. The 20-year average across the fishery is three fish caught per rod per day. Fishing is fly only — upstream dry fly and nymph — and suits beginners well, with heavily stocked water and clear chalk stream visibility making it straightforward to spot and present to rising fish. The season opens in April with Large Dark Olive, Grannom caddis and Hawthorn on the water, before the mayfly arrives from mid-May through to early June, followed by Blue-Winged Olive and Medium Olives through June and into summer. The season runs 1 April to 31 October, with day rods from £180. Banks are maintained to a high standard, with regular mowing and strimming keeping access clear throughout the season. The main fishing lodge has power, a kitchen area, WC, washing facilities and a large patio overlooking the river; three further huts with picnic tables are positioned around the fishery. Access is through an electrically controlled farm gate, with parking on site.

River Test

Timsbury Beat 2

Timsbury Beat 2 covers around 0.4 miles of the main River Test in Hampshire, situated in the village of Timsbury between Romsey and Stockbridge. It forms one of four individual beats on over three miles of bank, encompassing both the main river and two carrier streams. The fishery is accessed via electric gates along a private road and is surrounded by acres of privately owned chalk stream water meadows. Bank fishing only, with easy access along well-maintained banks, with regular mowing and strimming throughout the season. The chalk water, combined with careful management of the river's weed beds, creates ideal conditions for brown trout, and the fishery is heavily stocked to support consistent sport. The 20-year average is three fish caught per rod per day. Fishing is fly only — upstream dry fly and nymph are the primary methods — and the beat suits beginners well, with open banks and chalk streams being almost always fishable regardless of weather conditions. The season runs from 31 March to 30 October. In April, expect hatches of Large Dark Olive, Grannom Caddis and Hawthorn; the mayfly follows from mid-May to early June, and June brings Blue-Winged Olives and Medium Olives. Salmon can be caught but must be returned to the river. The beat is limited to one or two rods and is priced at £180 for a day rod. Fishing rotates across all four beats so that each rod fishes the whole fishery every eight weeks. On-bank amenities include a fishing hut and toilet facilities, and the main fishing lodge, constructed in 2017, overlooks the main river and is equipped with mains electricity and Wi-Fi. Weed cutting follows dates set by the Test and Itchen Association, so it is worth checking the fishery calendar when planning a visit.

River Test

Timsbury Beat 3

Beat 3 is one of four private, fly-only beats at Timsbury Fishery, situated beside the River Test between Romsey and Stockbridge in Hampshire. Each beat consists of a stretch of the main river and a stretch of carrier stream, and at just over half a mile Beat 3 offers a manageable, bank-fished length suited to one or two rods. The river is maintained to a high standard, with easy access to all the beats through regular mowing and strimming along the banks, as well as weed cutting during the summer. The fishery is accessed via electric gates along a private road and is surrounded by acres of privately owned chalk stream water meadows. The chalk water, combined with careful management of the river's weed beds, creates ideal conditions for brown trout, and the fishery is heavily stocked to support consistent sport. The 20-year average is three fish caught per rod per day. Fishing is fly-only — upstream dry fly and nymph are the primary methods — and the beat is rated suitable for beginners, making it a practical introduction to chalk stream technique. The main flies hatching on the River Test in April are the Large Dark Olive, the Grannom Caddis and the Hawthorn; the mayfly follows from mid-May to early June, and summer brings a variety of caddis, olives and terrestrials. The season runs 31 March to 30 October. Rods rotate across all four beats so that each rod fishes the whole fishery every eight weeks, with a free-for-all period between early October and the season's end. Day rod prices run from £180 to £300 (upper beat), with a season rod available at £1,800. The main fishing lodge, constructed in 2017, overlooks the main river and is well equipped with a patio, mains electricity, Wi-Fi, a fully fitted kitchen, and a washroom with flushing toilet. Additional huts with picnic tables are positioned at strategic points around the fishery. A 9-ft rod for a 4- or 5-weight line covers most situations on this water.

River Test

Timsbury Beat 4

Beat 4 sits within Timsbury Fishery on the River Test near the village of Timsbury, between Romsey and Stockbridge in Hampshire, accessed via a private road through chalk stream water meadows. This beat covers roughly a third of a mile of main river and includes a stretch of carrier stream — each of the four beats at Timsbury consists of a stretch of the main river and a stretch of the carrier — giving a varied day's fishing across two distinct water types. The banks are maintained to a high standard, with regular mowing and strimming along the banks and weed cutting during the summer, making for easy bank access throughout the season. The chalk water, combined with careful management of the river's weed beds, creates ideal conditions for brown trout, and the fishing is predominantly upstream dry fly or nymph. The fishery is heavily stocked and well suited to beginners, with a 20-year average of three fish caught per rod per day. The main flies hatching on the River Test in April are the Large Dark Olive, the Grannom Caddis and the Hawthorn; May sees the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other upwings, while June brings Blue-Winged Olives and Medium Olives. Salmon have been caught on the fishery but are required to be returned. The season runs 31 March to 30 October, with one or two rods per day. Fishing rotates over the four beats so that a rod fishes the whole fishery every eight weeks. Day rod prices start at £180, with a season rod available at £1,800. The main fishing lodge, constructed in 2017, overlooks the main river and is well equipped with mains electricity, Wi-Fi, a fully fitted kitchen, and a washroom with flushing toilet. A fishing hut is also available on the beat itself. Fly-only rules apply throughout; a 9-foot rod for a 4- or 5-weight line is the standard choice for this kind of chalk stream dry fly and nymph work.

River Test

Longbridge Beat

Longbridge Beat sits on the lower River Test within the Broadlands Estates Fishery, just downstream of Romsey in Hampshire — one of five named beats on a stretch where 4.5 kilometres of the Test run through the Broadlands Estate. The beat covers roughly a third of a mile of double-bank main river chalk stream, with wading permitted. Positioned on the lower Test, it offers a wonderful variety of water on the wider, lower part of the river — expect deep bends, long pools, and ranunculus-lined runs rather than the narrower, more intimate character of the upper valley. The season runs 3 April to 15 October, with brown trout and grayling as the primary quarry alongside the possibility of sea trout. Fishing is fly only — upstream dry fly and nymph — with natural imitations required and no lures. Early season on the lower Test can feel more like a salmon river than the sedate upper valley, with fast flows and boiling pools; nymphing tends to dominate, though hatches of large dark olives, grannom, iron blue dun, and hawthorn can bring fish up. Broadlands is blessed with a reliable mayfly hatch, and being lower in the valley it tends to arrive a little earlier — typically first appearing in early May, with the main spectacle through mid to late May. The fish population includes both wild and stocked trout and grayling, with an average size of around 1–2 lb, though larger specimens are found in the deeper pools. Stocking is moderate, and all wild fish must be returned. Up to three rods fish the beat at any one time. Rules require upstream dry fly and nymph only, with flies being natural imitations and hook size no greater than 10. The beat is available as both season rods and day tickets, with day rod prices ranging from £220 in early and late season to £300 at peak. Fortnightly rods are also available. Anglers have use of the Longbridge Fishing Hut with toilet facilities on site. A valid EA rod licence is required.

River Test

Beat Eleven - Wherwell Estate

Beat Eleven sits on the main channel of the River Test within the Wherwell Estate, just upstream from the village of Wherwell in Hampshire. At 0.42 miles of single-bank main river, it is one of the larger, more open beats on the estate — favoured by anglers looking for a bigger river experience compared to the narrower carriers lower in the numbering. Beats 11, 10 and 9 are on the main river, giving this stretch a character distinct from the tree-lined carrier beats: expect wider glides, clear chalk-filtered water, and fish holding in defined lies along the margins and weed edges. The beat fishes dry fly and nymph for brown trout and rainbow trout from 1 May to 15 October, with grayling available from November. Good hatches of smaller up-winged flies can be expected right from the start of the season, including medium olives and iron blues. May sees the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other up-wings and terrestrials, while June brings blue-winged olives and medium olives. Stocking is moderate, and the river holds good populations of wild brown trout and grayling alongside stocked fish. The beat is rated beginner-friendly, making it a sound choice for anglers new to chalk stream fishing. It was also chosen as the location for Series 3, Episode 4 of the BBC's *Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing*, filmed during the mayfly hatch. The Wherwell Estate is in easy reach of London and many other main towns in the south of England — around one hour fifteen minutes by road or train from London Waterloo to Andover. The beat is accessed via electronic gates and comes with a fishing hut, a lakeside hut with kitchen, and a catch returns folder. Day rod pricing for the 2026 trout season is £218; grayling rods from 1 November 2026 are £85.

River Kennet

Dog Kennels

Dog Kennels is one of the named beats within the Barton Court Estate on the River Kennet, set within a private family estate between Hungerford and Kintbury in Berkshire. The estate encompasses main river, carriers, and side streams across over three miles of bank, with each section criss-crossing and interlocking through classic Berkshire water meadows. This beat sits within that carrier network — a narrower, more intimate stretch of chalk stream where wild trout spawning redds have been recorded on the gravels, and the water runs clear and steady over classic chalk-stream substrate. The fishery is now purely a fly-fishing venue, with an excellent head of wild brown trout. Among them is the elusive Kennet "greenback" — one of the last indigenous native trout strains remaining in southern England, sporting fewer spots than any brown trout you are likely to encounter elsewhere. Fishing is restricted to single dry fly and traditional upstream nymph, making it well suited to beginners learning to read chalk-stream water. The Kennet season opens in May; expect hawthorn early on, followed by a mayfly hatch, then a mixture of olives, sedges, and terrestrials through the back end. Because the Kennet's waters run slightly cooler than most other chalk streams, the mayfly hatch tends to start a little later, creating a longer and more sustained hatch through late spring and early summer. Up to six rods fish the beat. On-site facilities include a brand-new shepherd's hut and a dedicated fishing hut available for exclusive group use. Guided fishing, tackle hire, and catering by local chefs — either riverbank or prepared in advance — are all available to book. Parking is at Station Road, with an alternative near the Dundas Arms. Kintbury station sits just 64 metres from the fishery entrance, making this one of the more straightforwardly accessible chalk-stream beats in Berkshire for those travelling without a car. Bookings for Barton Court give you access to all six beats.

River Itchen

Salmon Beat

One of three salmon beats on the Lower Itchen Fishery, this bank-only stretch of Hampshire chalk stream sits just one mile above the tidal limit, placing it squarely in the path of fresh-run fish moving upriver from Southampton Water. From June through to the end of September, sea-liced salmon enter the river on a daily basis, and grilse average an impressive 7 to 8 lb. Brown trout and sea trout round out the quarry, with the beat open from 1 March to 30 September on a fly-only, catch-and-release basis. The water is keepered specifically to suit salmon, with deep channels cut through beds of potamogeton and lies engineered using groynes and boulders on the riverbed. The clear chalk-filtered current means fish are often visible, and the induced-take method using a heavily weighted nymph has proven effective, with anglers describing the sight of a salmon chasing a nymph to the surface as "heart stopping." Insect hatches, particularly blue-winged olive and sedge, are prolific and support good dry fly sport for brown trout throughout the season, with the Grannom, Hawthorn and Mayfly following in succession through spring. Day tickets run from £87 per single rod in early spring to £167 in August and September, with season rod options also available. A total catch-and-release policy for salmon applies across the fishery. A ghillie service is available on request, tackle hire can be arranged, and a fishing lodge with kitchen, bankside huts and BBQ facilities are on hand. Disabled access is suitable throughout.

River Itchen

Trout Beat

Part of the Lower Itchen Fishery in Hampshire, the Trout Beat offers bank-only fly fishing on a moderately stocked stretch of the River Itchen, one of England's finest chalk streams. Founded in 1954, the Lower Itchen Fishery comprises around 5,300 yards, making it the longest continuous stretch of the River Itchen in private ownership. The beat features classic chalk stream character: ranunculus weed cut in the traditional line-and-bar method, white water pools, riffled runs and deeper holding lies, with footbridges giving straightforward bank access throughout. The primary quarry is brown trout, with grayling present through the season and sea trout also available later in the season. Fishing is fly only, with both dry fly and nymph permitted. Insect hatches on the Itchen are prolific, particularly blue-winged olive and sedge, offering reliable dry fly action across the season. Opening in late April, the first hatches of the year include the large dark olive, grannom caddis and hawthorn, before the mayfly arrives in May, followed by blue-winged olive and medium olives through June. Mayfly hatches on the Itchen are generally lighter than on the River Test, so dry fly opportunities across the full season carry real weight. The beat is rated suitable for beginners, and the moderate stocking policy means fish are present throughout without the water feeling artificial. The season runs from 24 April to 7 October. Single rod days are priced at £184 outside the mayfly window and £199 during the peak period (7 May to 7 June); double rod bookings range from £308 to £328. Corporate entertainment for larger parties is a speciality of the fishery, with packages tailored to suit specific requirements. On-site facilities include a fishing lodge with a kitchen area, bankside huts and shelters, and a ghillie service. Tackle hire and gift vouchers are also available, and the beat has suitable disabled access.

River Kennet

Middle Cut

Middle Cut is a carrier beat within the Barton Court Estate water meadow network, sitting on the Berkshire/Wiltshire border near Kintbury — where the River Kennet idles through the grounds of a private family estate between Hungerford and Kintbury. The beat runs along one of the estate's chalk stream carriers, a narrower side channel cut from the main river, with dense hawthorn lines along both banks that define the character of the water and provide natural cover for fish. Barton Court has a host of main river, carriers and side streams, with over three miles of bank, and no two sections are the same as they criss-cross and interlock along classic Berkshire water meadows. Brown and rainbow trout are the target species, and the beat is well suited to beginners — the carrier format keeps the fishing intimate and readable. Methods are restricted to single dry fly and traditional upstream nymph. The Kennet season opens in May, with a good hawthorn hatch early on, followed by a mayfly hatch and then a mixture of olives, sedges and terrestrials later in the year. The hawthorn hatch is particularly productive on Middle Cut, where the bankside trees drop flies directly onto the water. Because the Kennet's waters run slightly cooler than most other chalk streams, the mayfly hatch tends to start a little later, creating a longer and more sustained hatch throughout late spring and early summer. As the season progresses, sedge, olive and terrestrial hatches can be excellent, with beetles, ants and hoppers providing surface sport in the late summer months. Up to six rods can fish the beat. Barton Court offers day-rod access as well as exclusive-use or group days, with guides, catering and tackle hire to suit all abilities, plus a brand-new shepherd's hut and a dedicated fishing hut for exclusive group use. Parking is available on Station Road or near the Dundas Arms. Kintbury station is just 64 metres from the entrance to the fishery, making Middle Cut one of the most straightforward chalk stream beats to reach from London by train. Bookings for Barton Court give you access to all six beats.

River Kennet

Old River

The Old River beat sits on the River Kennet within the Barton Court Estate, between Hungerford and Kintbury in Berkshire, where the Kennet runs not as a single channel but as a network of main river, carriers, and side streams twisting through old water meadows — one moment you're stalking a trout in a narrow carrier under overhanging sedge, the next casting to a steady rise in the main river. The Old River section is characterised by dense hawthorn trees lining the banks, making it particularly productive when terrestrials are on the water, and the weed-rich channels of the 'old' river hold good fish that can be encouraged into the open. The estate is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and the water runs with the clarity typical of a well-managed Berkshire chalk stream. Brown and rainbow trout are present, with fish of three pounds and over regularly caught and a population of wild fish that increases year on year. The beat is rated suitable for beginners, and guided fishing is available on-site. Spring brings olive hatches combined with grannom and hawthorn; the mayfly follows, and through summer, caddis and adult olives return to the water in the evenings. Because the Kennet runs slightly cooler than most other chalk streams, the mayfly hatch tends to start a little later, producing a longer and more sustained hatch through late spring and early summer. As the season progresses, sedge, olive, and terrestrial hatches can be excellent, with beetles, ants, and hoppers providing good surface sport into late summer. Methods are restricted to single dry fly and traditional upstream nymph, with up to six rods on the water. On-site facilities include a brand-new shepherd's hut and a dedicated fishing hut for exclusive group use, with guided fishing, tackle hire, and catering from local chefs all available. Kintbury station sits just 64 metres from the fishery entrance, with additional parking available on Station Road or near the Dundas Arms. Bookings for Barton Court give you access to all six beats.

River Kennet

Park Stream

Park Stream is one of the named carrier streams winding through the Barton Court Estate on the River Kennet near Kintbury, Berkshire — part of a network of main river, carriers, and side streams that criss-cross and interlock along classic Berkshire water meadows, with over three miles of bank across the estate. As a chalk stream side channel, it carries the hallmarks of the Kennet system: crystal-clear water for almost the whole season, making it a genuine sight-fishery where you can target specific fish. Wild brown trout redds have been observed here, a sign that the population of fish born in the river increases year by year. Fishing is single dry fly or traditional upstream nymph, and the beat is well suited to beginners finding their feet on chalk stream water. Olive hatches in spring are combined with grannom and followed by hawthorn, while the mayfly can be impressive, followed by excellent evening fishing through summer as caddis flies gather and adult olives return to lay their eggs. Barton Court offers one of the better mayfly hatches on the southern chalk streams, with the hatch arriving comparatively late — the best sport often falling in the first weeks of June. Keep an eye out for the Kennet Greenback, a unique form of wild brown trout with green flanks and few spots, found nowhere else on the chalk streams. Up to six rods can fish Park Stream, with the beat available on an exclusive group basis. On-site facilities include a brand-new shepherd's hut and a dedicated fishing hut for exclusive group use, and guided fishing, tackle hire, and catering from local chefs — riverbank or prepared in advance — can all be arranged. Barton Court has the unusual advantage of a train station just 64 metres from the fishery entrance, with parking available on Station Road or near the Dundas Arms at the lower end of the beat. Bookings for Barton Court give you access to all six beats.

River Kennet

Parsons Ditch

Parsons Ditch is a named carrier stream within the Barton Court Estate, set in the historic water meadow network between Hungerford and Kintbury in West Berkshire. The estate carries over three miles of bank across main river, carriers, and side streams, all criss-crossing and interlocking through classic Berkshire water meadows. Parsons Ditch itself is a willow-lined channel — the willows pollarded annually — that forms part of a restored and actively managed system. The wider estate is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Fishing is single dry fly and traditional upstream nymph for wild brown trout, and the beat is well suited to beginners. The estate is now purely a fly-fishing venue with an excellent head of wild brown trout. Olive hatches in spring are combined with grannom and followed by hawthorn, while the mayfly can be impressive and summer evenings bring caddis and adult olives returning to lay eggs. Barton Court is noted for one of the better mayfly hatches on the southern chalkstreams, arriving comparatively late, with the best sport often found in the first weeks of June. Keep an eye out for the Kennet 'greenback' — a green-flanked, near-spotless brown trout found nowhere else on the chalkstreams. Up to six rods can fish Parsons Ditch on an exclusive group basis. The estate offers guided fishing, tackle hire, and catering, with a dedicated fishing hut for exclusive group use and an on-site shepherd's hut. Parking is available on Station Road or near the Dundas Arms. Kintbury station is just 64 metres from the fishery entrance, making this one of the more straightforward chalk stream beats to reach by train from London or the wider south of England. Bookings for Barton Court give you access to all six beats.

River Kennet

Upper Park

The Upper Park beat sits on the Barton Court Estate on the River Kennet near Kintbury, Berkshire, where the Kennet runs not as a single channel but as a network of main river, carriers, and side streams twisting through old water meadows. This section carries a piece of angling history: it still holds the River Kennet pike record at 33lb 2oz. The beat is now fished exclusively as fly water, and up to six rods can fish it at once, making it well suited to group days. The fishery now offers an excellent head of wild brown trout, where anglers can experience authentic Kennet trout fishing. Methods are restricted to single dry fly and traditional upstream nymph — the classic chalk stream approach — and the beat is rated suitable for beginners, with varied sections that criss-cross through classic Berkshire water meadows, making it perfect for both confident chalkstream fishermen and those easing into the sport. Spring brings olive hatches combined with grannom and hawthorn, while the mayfly can be impressive, followed by good evening fishing through summer as caddis flies gather. The mayfly hatch arrives comparatively late compared to other rivers, with the best sport often found in the first weeks of June. Keep an eye out for the Kennet Greenback — a green-flanked, near-spotless brown trout found nowhere else on the chalkstreams. On-site facilities include a brand-new shepherd's hut and a dedicated fishing hut for exclusive group use. Guided fishing, tackle hire, and catering from local chefs — riverbank or prepared in advance — are all available to book. Parking is on Station Road, with an alternative near the Dundas Arms, a two-minute walk from the lower end of the fishery. The estate has the unusual advantage of a train station just 64 metres from the fishery entrance, making it one of the most accessible chalk stream beats in Berkshire for those travelling without a car. Bookings for Barton Court give you access to all six beats.

River Test

Beat Five - Wherwell Estate

Beat Five covers approximately 0.4 miles of the River Test on the Wherwell Estate, situated on the upper River Test just upstream from the village of Wherwell in Hampshire. Beat Five is one of the smaller carrier streams on the estate, and the water changes character along its length — open and meadow-fringed at the top, tightening into a more enclosed, shaded run lower down. Marginal cress beds kick the flow from side to side, creating varied current lanes and holding lies throughout. The beat is rated as suitable for beginners, making it a practical introduction to chalk stream fishing without sacrificing the quality of the water. The river holds good populations of wild brown trout and grayling alongside stocked fish, and anglers may keep a brace of stocked trout if they wish, though wild trout should be handled carefully and returned. Fishing is dry fly and small upstream nymphs only. May brings the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other upwinged species, while June sees blue-winged olives and medium olives come through. September sees the return of the large dark olive as temperatures cool, and the final weeks of the trout season into early October can produce excellent sport as fish feed hard before winter. The trout season runs 1 May to 15 October; grayling fishing starts mid-October and runs through to mid-March, with day rod prices from £85 for grayling and £218 for a trout day. The estate is easily reached from London — around one hour fifteen minutes by road or train to Andover. On the bank, each beat is serviced by its own fishing hut, suitable for the group to use for lunch. The fishery also provides a catch returns folder and access via electronic gates, keeping the day straightforward from arrival to sign-off.

River Test

Beat Four - Wherwell Estate

Situated on the upper River Test, just upstream from the village of Wherwell in Hampshire, Beat Four covers approximately 0.4 miles of carrier stream on the Wherwell Estate. Beat Four is one of several smaller carriers that make up the estate's eight-beat fishery, and its deeper, meandering character means trout hold confidently in well-defined lies — often visible from the bank before a cast is made. The river holds good populations of wild brown trout and grayling alongside stocked fish, and the beat is well suited to beginners getting to grips with chalk stream technique. Fishing is dry fly and small upstream nymph only, running from 1 May to 15 October. May brings the first mayfly hatch of the year alongside other upwinged species, while June sees blue-winged olives and medium olives come into their own. September sees the return of the large dark olive, and the final weeks of the season in early October can produce excellent sport as cooling temperatures push trout into an aggressive pre-spawning feed. A brace of stocked trout may be kept; wild fish should be returned carefully. Day rods are priced at £218 for the trout season (2026). Grayling fishing starts mid-October at £85 per rod from 1 November. Each beat is serviced by its own fishing hut, and the estate also provides a lakeside hut with kitchen facilities, electronic gate access, and a catch returns folder. The estate is around one hour fifteen minutes from London Waterloo by train to Andover, making it a practical day-trip destination from the capital.

River Test

Beat Nine Wherwell Estate

Running on the main River Test rather than one of the estate's smaller carriers, Beat Nine sits on the main river within the Wherwell Estate on the upper River Test, just upstream from the village of Wherwell in Hampshire. The beat covers just over a third of a mile of single-bank chalk stream — a section where traditional autumn fringing and potentially good spawning and juvenile habitat characterise the margins — making it one of the more open, less-managed stretches on the estate. The river here holds good populations of wild brown trout and grayling alongside stocked fish, and the beat is fished on a dry fly and small upstream nymph basis throughout its season, which runs from 1 May to 15 October. The hawthorn hatch arrives in late April, the mayfly from mid-May to early June, and summer brings a variety of caddis, olives, and terrestrials — September sees the return of the Large Dark Olive, and the cooling temperatures of early October can provoke trout into an aggressive feed as they build condition before spawning. A brace of stocked trout may be retained; wild trout should be handled carefully and returned. Grayling fishing is available from 1 November at £85 per rod. The trout day rod rate for 2026 is £218. The estate is easily reached from London — around an hour and fifteen minutes by road or train to Andover. On-bank amenities include fishing huts with a catch returns folder, a lakeside hut with kitchen, and electronic gate access — practical comforts that suit a full day on the water without distraction.

River Test

Beat Seven - Wherwell Estate

Beat Seven on the Wherwell Estate Fishing, near the village of Wherwell in Hampshire, is made up of two narrow parallel River Test carriers that converge at the lower end, giving a total bank length of 870 metres — just over half a mile of intimate chalk stream water. These carriers were originally part of the water meadow system, and while the fishery is stocked, the smaller channels hold a notably large population of wild brown trout. The deeper, slower character of the water provides ideal conditions for fish to hold and feed confidently, making it one of the more productive wild trout nurseries on the estate. Hatches begin from the season opener on 1 May, with medium olives and iron blue duns appearing early in the season, followed by the main mayfly event typically in the latter half of May and running into early June. The banks are well maintained by the river keeper, who manages weed cutting to encourage prolific hatches throughout the season. Dry fly and small upstream nymphs are the permitted methods, and the confined, tree-lined nature of the carriers rewards accurate, short-range casting — the upper Test's manageable width suits overhead casting well and makes Beat Seven a good choice for those newer to chalk stream fishing. Anglers may keep a brace of stocked trout; wild fish should be returned with care. The trout season runs from 1 May to mid-October, with grayling fishing available from mid-October through to mid-March. Day rod prices are £218 for trout (2026) and £85 for grayling from November 2026. Each beat is served by its own fishing hut, suitable for taking lunch. Access to the estate is via electronic gates, and catch returns folders are provided on the beat. The Wherwell Estate is within easy reach of London and the wider south of England, with Andover the nearest mainline station.

River Test

Beat Ten - Wherwell Estate

Beat Ten sits on the main River Test within the Wherwell Estate fishery, near the village of Wherwell in Hampshire's Test Valley. Beats 10 and 11 are on the main river channel, and at just over half a kilometre of double-bank water, this is one of the upper beats favoured by anglers looking for a larger river experience. The river widens noticeably here, with willow-lined banks offering access from both sides and plenty of room to work a dry fly upstream without feeling hemmed in. The river holds good populations of wild brown trout and grayling alongside stocked fish, and the beat is rated suitable for beginners — the open character of the main channel makes presentation straightforward compared to the tighter carrier beats elsewhere on the estate. Fishing is dry fly and small upstream nymphs only. From the 1st May opening, expect good hatches of smaller up-winged flies including medium olives and iron blue duns, with the main mayfly event typically starting in the latter half of the third week of May and running into early June. The riverkeeper manages weed cutting specifically to encourage prolific fly hatches throughout the season. The trout season runs 1 May to 15 October, priced at £218 per rod in 2026. Grayling fishing is available from 1 November at £85. Each beat has its own fishing hut, suitable for the group to use for lunch, and Beat Ten also benefits from access to a lakeside fishing hut with a kitchen. Electronic gates control site access. Catch returns are required and a folder is provided on the beat. Wherwell Estate is easily reached from London and many other towns in the south of England, whether by road or rail.

River Meon

Meon Meadows

River Itchen

East Lodge Beat

Set just south of Twyford in Hampshire, East Lodge is a beat on the River Itchen with a fishing history stretching back to the 17th century. The estate water covers two miles of double-bank chalk stream, comprising both the main river and a fast-flowing side stream called Rosemary's Leat, which bisects the surrounding water meadows. The Itchen carries the highest conservation designations, being both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), typifying the classic chalk river with only a narrow range of seasonal variation in physical and chemical characteristics — the water is naturally base-rich, of great clarity, and maintains a relatively constant temperature with dissolved oxygen levels at or near saturation. The water is varied and suits both novice and expert. The river is stocked with brown trout only, but also supports a very large population of wild trout and grayling, testament to the quality of habitat management on the beat. Insect hatches, particularly blue-winged olive and sedge, are prolific throughout the season, offering reliable dry fly action, while the mayfly period typically begins around 15 May and represents the most sought-after weeks on the water. As a general rule, warmer months favour trout fishing and the cooler months grayling. Mayfly hatches on the Itchen are generally lighter than on the River Test, but the river is well blessed with fly life throughout the season. The beat accommodates up to ten rods and is well set up for corporate and group days, with a fishing lodge, on-site catering, and equipment hire available — making it a practical choice for less experienced anglers coming to chalk stream fly fishing for the first time. The Itchen has its own place in fly fishing history: it was here that George Skues developed the principles of nymph fishing that remain central to the sport today. A 9 ft 5-weight is a sensible starting point; the gin-clear water rewards a careful, upstream approach — if you can see the trout, they can see you.

River Test

Grove Beat

The Grove Beat occupies roughly 0.6 miles of the lower River Test on the Broadlands Estate in Hampshire, just downstream from the town of Romsey. It sits as the lowest of the three trout beats on the estate, and the Test at this point is quite wide and deep in parts, with a fast flow that sets it apart from the more intimate upper valley. As the season progresses and flows drop back, the beat settles into lovely pools and long riffles. Up to three rods fish the beat, with double-bank access giving good coverage of the water. Brown trout and grayling are the primary quarry, with Atlantic salmon and sea trout also present on the estate. The fish population includes both wild and stocked trout and grayling, with an average size of around 1–2 lb, though larger specimens can be found in the deeper pools. Early season anglers will typically favour nymphing, though there can be good hatches of large dark olives, grannom, iron blue dun and hawthorn that bring fish up to the dry fly. Like much of the Test, Broadlands sees big mayfly hatches, and this far down the valley they tend to arrive a little earlier — usually from the first weeks of May, with the main spectacle through mid to late May. As cooler weather moves in and weed beds die back, the beat becomes a productive destination for shoaling grayling, with clean gravel runs and good pace offering prime nymph fishing. Fishing runs from 3 April to 15 October, upstream dry fly and nymph only, with flies kept to natural imitations and hook sizes no larger than 10. Two stocked trout of 14 inches and above may be killed per rod per day, with catch and release thereafter for up to four additional fish; all wild fish must be returned. A 9–10 ft rod for a 4–5 weight line suits most conditions, though the fast, deep water rewards heavier nymphs, particularly earlier in the season. The beat is rated suitable for beginners and is well set up for a day visit, with a fishing hut and toilet facilities on site. Ghillying can be arranged with the riverkeeper. Day rods run from £220 in early and late season to £300 at peak, with fortnightly rod options also available for those wanting a longer stay.

River Test

Lee Park Beat

Lee Park Beat sits on the lower River Test, just downstream of Romsey, within the 4.5 kilometres of the river that flow through the Broadlands Estate. It is one of five named trout and salmon beats on the estate, covering just under half a mile of double-bank main river chalk stream. This section of the Test is wide, fast and varied, and as the season progresses and winter flows recede, the beat settles into lovely pools and long riffles that lend themselves well to upstream presentation. The beat fishes dry fly and nymph only, with up to three rods, and is rated suitable for beginners — the double-bank access and wading allowance giving newcomers room to find their feet. Early season typically favours nymphing, though hatches of large dark olives, grannom, iron blue dun and hawthorn can bring fish up from opening day on 3 April. The estate is well known for its mayfly hatches, and this far down the valley the hatch tends to arrive a little earlier than upstream beats, with first appearances in early May and the main event running through mid to late May. Brown trout and grayling make up the resident population, with moderate stocking supplementing wild fish; all wild fish must be returned. Grayling on the estate typically average around 1 lb, though fish close to 3 lb are caught each season. Fishing runs from 3 April to 15 October, upstream dry fly and nymph only, with natural imitation flies and a maximum hook size of 10. Two stocked trout of 14 inches and above may be killed per rod per day, with catch and release thereafter for up to four additional fish. Day rods are available from £220 in early and late season, rising to £300 at peak, with fortnightly rod options from £1,100 for a half rod. A fishing hut — the famous Nissen Hut, a long-standing retreat for Broadlands anglers — is available on site, along with toilet facilities. The estate is around one hour fifteen minutes from London Waterloo by road or train to Southampton.

River Test

Moorcourt Beat

Moorcourt is the middle of three trout beats on the lower River Test, just downstream from Romsey on the Broadlands Estate in Hampshire. The estate accounts for 4.5 kilometres of the Test's 64-kilometre length, and this section of the river is wide, fast, varied and open — quite different in character from the intimate upper reaches. At just over half a mile of double-bank main river, Moorcourt offers a generous amount of water for up to three rods, with pools and long riffles, some broken up by islands, as flows drop back through the season. The river holds good populations of wild brown trout and grayling alongside moderately stocked trout, with sea trout and salmon also present. Both salmon and sea trout move from salt into freshwater lies in the lower reaches from spring onwards, making later-season visits particularly interesting. Trout fishing runs from 3rd April to 15th October, upstream dry fly and nymph only, with natural imitation flies and a hook size no greater than 10. The hawthorn hatch arrives in late April, with the mayfly following from mid-May to early June — the beat's peak season pricing of £300 per day reflects this window. Summer brings a variety of caddis, olives and terrestrials to keep fish looking up well into autumn. Sight fishing over bright gravel beds, picking out trout with a dry fly or a traditional nymph pattern between waving tails of ranunculus, is the defining experience here. The beat is rated suitable for beginners, and the open banks and double-bank access make it a forgiving introduction to chalk stream fishing. Up to a brace of stocked trout of 14 inches and above may be killed per rod per day, with catch and release thereafter for up to four additional fish. Wading is permitted in parts to give better access to rising fish. Day rods run from £220 in early and late season to £300 at peak, with fortnightly rod options available from £1,100. The famous Nissen Hut — a welcome retreat lined with photographs and trophies from visits by royalty, diplomats and film stars — serves as the shared fishing hut, with toilet facilities on site. Ghillying can be arranged with the riverkeeper, Jon Hall, who manages all three main river beats. Broadlands is around one hour fifteen minutes from London Waterloo by road or train to Southampton.

River Test

Rookery & Lord Louis Beat

Sitting on the lower River Test just downstream of Romsey, the Rookery & Lord Louis Beat is part of the Broadlands Estate's 4.5 miles of private chalk stream in Hampshire. This is a wide, fast and varied section of the main river — half a mile of single and double-bank water that fishes up to three rods. As the season progresses and flows drop back, the beat settles into lovely pools and long riffles, with wooden croys creating downstream scour holes that concentrate fish and give each pool a distinct character. Wading is permitted in parts, giving better access to rising trout. The beat holds native brown trout, Atlantic salmon, sea trout and grayling. Stocking is moderate, and all wild fish must be returned. Fishing runs from 3 April to 15 October on upstream dry fly and nymph only, with natural imitations on a hook no larger than size 10; up to a brace of stocked trout of 14 inches or above may be killed per rod per day, with catch and release thereafter. Early season typically favours nymphing, though steady hatches of large dark olives, grannom, iron blue dun and hawthorn can bring fish up to the dry fly. The beat is blessed with a good mayfly hatch each season; being low in the valley, it arrives a little earlier than upstream beats, with the first flies typically appearing in early May and the main hatch running through mid to late May. The beat is rated as beginner-friendly, making it a sound choice for less experienced chalk stream anglers, though the wider pools will reward a confident cast. Day rods run from £220 in the early and late season to £300 at peak, with fortnightly rods available on a shared or exclusive basis. The Nissen Hut — a well-known fixture on the estate — serves as the base for all rods, lined with photographs and fishing memorabilia. Toilets are on site. Ghillying can be arranged through the riverkeeper. A valid EA rod licence is required.

River Test

Tanyard's Beat

Tanyard's Beat sits on the lower River Test, just downstream of Romsey in Hampshire, forming part of the Broadlands Estate's 4.5-kilometre stretch of chalk stream. At just over half a mile of main river, the beat offers a variety of water — from deep bends and wide straights to gentle runs where fish are regularly feeding. As the season progresses and flows drop back, the beat settles into lovely pools and long riffles, and wading is permitted in parts to give better access to rising trout. The season runs 2 April to 14 October and targets brown trout, rainbow trout, and wild trout on a fly-only basis with upstream dry fly and nymph. Early season on the lower Test can mean a big, fast river — more akin to a salmon river than the sedate upper valley — with nymphing the favoured approach, though hatches of large dark olives, grannom, iron blue dun, and hawthorn can bring fish up to the surface. The beat is blessed with a reliable mayfly hatch; being this far down the valley, it tends to arrive a little earlier than upstream beats, with first appearances in early May and the main event running through mid to late May — reflected in the Mayfly Season day-rod rate of £300. The fish population includes both wild and stocked trout, with an average size of around 1–2 lb and larger specimens available in the deeper pools. The beat is rated suitable for beginners, making it a practical introduction to chalk stream fishing without sacrificing quality water. Up to three rods can fish the beat at once. Rules require upstream dry fly and nymph only, with natural imitation patterns and a maximum hook size of 10. Day-rod prices run from £220 in the early and late season to £250 through the main season. A fishing hut and toilets are on site. The estate is around an hour and fifteen minutes from London Waterloo by train to Southampton, making it a straightforward day trip from the capital.