TOP_WATERS_15_1425

2015 

OUR EXPERTS REVEAL 

THE UK’S TOP FISHERIES 

■ Value for money ■ Best quality fish ■ Facilities ■ Uniqueness 

■ Fishing experience ■ Friendliest staff ■ Efforts to meet angler needs

Welcome 

OUR stillwater trout fisheries vary so much but 

those waters going the extra mile to ensure quality 

and angler enjoyment deserve recognition. And 

that’s what this supplement magazine is all about. 

A panel of TF contributors and myself drew up the 

candidates based on uniqueness, facilities, value for 

money, overall fishing experience, friendly staff, fish 

quality and efforts to meet customer needs. 

You may not agree with every water that made 

the listing, or didn’t, and we’re always open to your 

opinions. Let us know, we will listen to you. 

I’m sure that few would argue with the top 10 

waters, they’re simply incredible places to fish. 

Then, the difference between all the rest is down 

to small things. Basically, if your local fishery has 

made the top 100 then it’s a damn good water. 

Simple as that. In my 17 or so years working for this 

magazine I’ve managed to visit most of the waters 

in the top 100 and a good deal of the other waters 

available in the UK. How many have you tried? I hope 

that you’ll feel inspired to visit more of them. 

I’m heartened to see that a great deal of the 

top 100 are Troutmasters waters – but all have a 

proactive attitude to their business. Of course, 

though, there’s always room for improvement 

in everything we do. Got an opinion? Email 

russell.hill@bauermedia.co.uk or post on the 

Trout Fisherman Facebook page. 

Russell Hill, editor 

TOP 100 

FISHERIES 

FINDER 

MAP 

54 

7 

31 

5 

39 

97 

50 

62 

72 

59 

89 18 

91 

90 

88 

24 

60 

69 76 

6 

35 

9 

42 95 

58 67 70 65 

63 

16 

49 

14 85 

11 

8 

81 

75 

80 

20 

47 

79 40 99 

53 

33 84 

36 

93 

92 

68 

15 

52 

45 

96 

57 

77 

43 

94 13 

3 4 

71 

87 

26 

100 

55 

61 

30 66 

29 

56 

74 

25 

19 

73 2 

98 21 78 

10 28 22 

82 

1 

12 

17 

86 27 

34 

46 

38 

1 Grafham 

2 Rutland 

3 Blagdon 

4 Chew 

5 Lough Corrib 

6 Lake of Menteith 

7 Lough Mask 

8 Llyn Clywedog 

9 Loch Leven 

10 Draycote 

11 Llyn Brenig 

12 Farmoor II 

13 Lechlade & 

Bushyleaze 

14 Graiglwyd Springs 

15 Stocks 

16 Garnffrwd 

17 Dever 

18 Tavistock 

19 Eyebrook 

20 Ellerdine 

21 Elinor 

22 Pitsford 

64 

41 44 

32 

8348 

23 

37 

2015 TOP FISHERIES 

51 

23 Bewl 

24 Innis 

25 Palm Springs 

26 Lockwood Beck 

27 Avington 

28 Ravensthorpe 

29 Carsington 

30 Ladybower 

31 Screebe Estate 

32 Chalk Springs 

33 Bellbrook 

34 Meon Springs 

35 Swanswater 

36 Lochter 

37 Brick Farm Lakes 

38 Albury Estate 

Fisheries/Syon Park 

39 Lough Leane 

40 Wimbleball 

41 Duncton Mill 

42 Linlithgow Loch 

43 Lenches Lakes 

44 Blackwool Farm 

45 Danebridge 

46 Barn Elms 

47 Bank House 

48 Chigboro’ 

49 Alderneuk 

50 Lough Sheelin 

51 Tenterden 

52 Pennine 

53 Blakewell 

54 Lough Carra 

55 Leighton 

Reservoir 

56 Roxholme 

57 Chatton 

58 Burnhouse 

Lochan 

59 Burns Trout 

Fishery 

60 Glen of Rothes 

61 Raygill 

62 Dungannon 

63 Coldingham Loch 

64 Frensham 

65 Tweeddale 

Millennium 

66 Press Manor 

67 Morton Fishery 

68 Langley Dam 

69 Carron Valley 

70 Glencorse Fishery 

71 Sharpley Springs 

72 New Haylie 

73 Thornton 

74 Foremark 

75 Lake Vyrnwy 

76 Orchill Loch 

Trout Lake 

77 Thrunton 

Long Crag 

78 Blackdyke 

79 Clatworthy 

80 Esthwaite 

81 Gludy 

82 Earith 

83 Thornwood 

84 Sutton Bingham 

85 Tan-y-Mynydd 

86 Sutton Springs 

87 Jubilee 

88 Bake Fishing 

Lakes 

89 Temple Trout 

Fishery 

90 Siblyback Lake 

91 Colliford 

92 Haddo 

93 Tullich 

94 Big Well 

95 Markle 

96 Loynton Hall 

97 Lough Melvin 

98 Packington 

99 Hawkridge 

100 Witton Castle 

Lakes 

TROUT FISHERMAN TOP 100 STILLWATERS IN UK & IRELAND 2015 3

TROUTMASTERS 

2015 WATER 

Witton Castle 

100 TOO good to not make the top 

100. Within picturesque parkland, this Durham 

fishery offers flyfishing on lakes of 2 and 5 

acres. There’s also a small ½ acre bait lake for 

junior anglers. Regularly stocked with quality 

rainbows and blues from 2lb, record 25lb 12oz. 

Ample car parking and purpose-built lodge, 

offering a range of flies and essential tackle, 

hot and cold drinks and fishing licences. 

99 haWkridge 

NEW to the top 100, this 32-acre 

upland lake run by Wessex Water rates as 

a scenic gem of a place near the Quantock 

Hills, Somerset. Hard-fighting rainbows, 

browns, tigers, golden, blue trout and now 

char are stocked regularly along with some 

home-grown doubles. Lodge with lounge 

NEW 

ENTRY 

and refreshments and there are six boats to 

accompany the bank sport. 

TROUTMASTERS 


98 

PaCkington trout 

Fishery 

A MULTI-lake complex offering trout and 

coarse fishing in a mature landscape on the 

Packington Estate in the Heart of England. 

The trout lakes are stocked with fin-perfect 

rainbowS and brown trout and the fishery 

records stand at 21lb 8oz (rainbow), 10lb 

(brown) and 12lb (blue). Fishery is permanently 

manned and tuition is available. 

97 

lough MelVin 

THE most important salmon and 

trout fishery in north-west Ireland and it 

borders with the north. At eight miles long and 

two miles wide it’s one of the few examples 

of a post-glacial salmonid lough and still in 

a reasonably healthy state. Fishing can be 

superb here with salmon, char, perch and most 

importantly brown trout of which there are four 

species – browns, ferox, gillaroo and sonaghan. 

TROUTMASTERS 


96 loynton 

NEW 

ENTRY 

NEW entry and deserves its place 

since the owner is trying hard to return the 

venue to its former glory as a big fish water. 

Three lakes offering different challenges and 

always the chance of a truly large trout. Onsite 

café proves extremely popular with anglers and 

locals alike. Decent parking and good facilities 

make Loynton a great place to fish. Top fly has 

to be the Loynton Guinea lure! 

95 

Markle Fishery 

EAST Lothian premier water 25 

minutes from Edinburgh. Established for 11 

years offering fly and bait trout fishing as well 

as coarse. Trout lakes are 5-acre Markle, 2.5- 

acre Monastery (fly only) and Kin Loch, a bait 

pool. A cage management system supplements 

weekly stocking from 2lb to 20lb. Holds 

rainbows, browns, blues to doubles, brooks and 

tigers. Lodge, car park, tackle shop. 

4 Top 100 sTillwaTers in uk & ireland 2015 TrouT fisherman

94 

TROUTMASTERS 


Big Well Fly Fishery 

UP one place due to good management 

this Monmouth small water is beautifully 

clear due to springwater and being fed by 

the Redbrook. Anglers enjoy quality trout 

fishing in a tranquil Wye Valley setting. 

Weekly stocking with rainbows, some 

blues and wild browns, the latter must 

be returned. Enjoy an all-day breakfast, 

friendly atmosphere, shop, hot/cold 

drinks, toilets and wheelchair access. 

“A Troutmasters 

fishery offering 

superb sport in the 

clearest water.” 

93 

tulliCh Fishery 

FRIENDLY fishery run by David 

and Doris Gill offering fair-priced fishing 

for rainbows. The owners are trusting and 

have even run an honesty box while not at 

the fishery. Located at Tullich, nr Ballater, 

Aberdeenshire the two lochs lie within 

attractive surroundings, where anglers enjoy 

all year fishing and superb dry fly sport. Tuition, 

refreshments, disabled access, release option. 

92 

haddo Fishery 

RELEASE only Haddo, near Methlick, 

Aberdeenshire is one of north-east Scotland’s 

finest small waters. Prolific fly life, 5 acres with 

5ft average depth. Browns, rainbows and blues 

from 1- 2lb with some 3-5lb, and larger. Boat 

only for up to 10 anglers – 19ft Leven wooden 

clinkers with two anchors, landing nets, seats 

and life-jackets. Open Fridays, and weekends. 

Free tea and coffee, tackle for sale or hire. 

91 

ColliFord lake 

CORNWALL’S premier brown trout 

water offers low-priced sport from bank 

only. At 900 acres, there’s plenty of areas 

from which to cast and move with traditional 

patterns – wading not advised. Fish are wild 

with some stocking and tickets are from the 

famous Jamaica Inn nearby. Grown-on fish to 

2lb regularly caught with occasional fish to 5lb. 

Kill and release tickets available. 

TrouT fisherman Top 100 sTillwaTers in uk & ireland 2015 5

TROUTMASTERS 


90 SIBLYBACK 

POPULAR with water sports and 

birdwatchers, 140-acre Siblyback, on the edge 

of Bodmin Moor, is run by the South West Lakes 

Trust and has six boats plus a Wheelyboat for 

the disabled. Stocked regularly with rainbows 

to 5lb, the fishing can be superb. Kill and 

release options, flies for sale, camping, EA 

beginners and family fishing days, onsite café 

and toilets. 

88 

BAKE LAKES 

A ONE-stop Cornish multi-lake 

location catering for coarse and game fishing. 

But don’t be fooled into thinking that the trout 

fishing is ‘half hearted’. The 5-acre Mirage trout 

lake is well designed with two arms and two 

platforms offering access to all areas. Fish are 

fully finned and well proportioned. Tuition, kill 

and release options, tackle shop, refreshments, 

friendly staff. 

87 

89 

TROUTMASTERS 


JUBILEE LAKES 

A POPULAR, well-maintained venue, Jubilee’s two lakes, totalling 

four acres, are home to rainbow trout, stocked daily with fish of at least 2lb 8oz. 

Evening stocking at this Co Durham fishery gives fish all night to adapt, and water 

from underlying rock strata helps maintain a steady temperature. A well-stocked 

tackle shop and heated anglers’ cabin are also on site. 

TEMPLE TROUT FISHERY 

TWO trout lakes nestled in an old china clay 

pit in Bodmin Moor. Mallard Lake is a 2.4 acre 

fly only rainbow and brown water with stock 

from 1.5lb up to double-figures, averaging 

2lb. Any method Teal Lake is 3.2 acres with 

rainbows and wild browns stocked mainly 

at 1lb with fish to 4lb. Disabled access by 

appointment. Well-stocked hut with cooker, 

tea and coffee, small tackle items for sale 

and toilet. The Temple Steelheads are an 

active local club. 

86 

SUTTON SPRINGS 

UP for sale now. Monster trout aren’t 

for everybody but catching a minimum 10lb fish 

is on most peoples’ agenda at least once. This 

Hampshire water, made up of Sutton Springs 

(day ticket water) and Testwood (reserved for 

parties of at least six anglers), lie in beautiful 

surroundings. Clear water stalking lakes for 

huge browns and rainbows. Largest trout to 

date is 37lb 2oz. 

6 TOP 100 STILLWATERS IN UK & IRELAND 2015 TROUT FISHERMAN

NEW FOR 2015! 

Café & Shop 

10% discount with this ad (terms apply) 

CHALK SPRINGS 

One of England’s top trout stillwaters for 

over 25 years, the fishery is nestled in a 

picturesque valley at the foot of the South 

Downs in Arundel, West Sussex. 

The four crystal-clear, spring fed lakes are 

stocked daily with Rainbows, Browns and Blues, 

averaging 2lb - 3lb and up into double figures. 

Tickets from £25. 

Open from 8.00am. 

Discounts for block/season tickets. 

Lakeside lodge with complimentary tea & coffee. 

Tackle shop and toilet on-site. Tuition available. 

Pre-booking advisable 

01903 883742 

www.chalksprings.com 

• Unbeatable Club/Group Concessions 

• Scenic 12 Acre Troutmaster Water 

• Challenging Boat, Bank or 

Stand Angling 

• Professional Instruction Available 

• Angler’s Lodge 

• Open 7 days a week 

T: 028 8772 8690 

E: parks@midulstercouncil.org 

W: www.midulstercouncil.org 

Park Lake Fishery, 8 Ballynorthland Demesne, 

Dungannon, Co Tyrone, BT71 7DS 

Exe Valley Fishery 

Spectacular Small Stillwater Fly Fishing 

River fed lakes stocked with home grown Rainbow 

& Brown Trout to double figures 

Five Permit Options from £25.00 

Close to the Exmoor National Park - 30 mins 

from J27 of the M5. Sat Nav: TA22 9AY 

Ample Parking | Clean Toilets | Tackleshop 

Fly Fishing School | Gift Vouchers | Tagged Trout 

OPEN 

ALL 

YEAR 

Tel: 01398 323008 

www.exevalleyfishery.co.uk

TROUTMASTERS 


85 TAN-Y-MYNYDD 

NEW 

ENTRY 

NEW entry and deservedly so. This 

is a popular, proactive, scenic small water 

near Abergele, Conwy, North Wales offering 

five lakes for varying abilities and excellent 

facilities. Well stocked with good browns, 

rainbows and tiger trout. The fishery has 

recently decided to be a barbless hooks-only 

water out of respect for the fish. A fishery that 

really looks after its customers. 

NEW 

ENTRY 

84 SUTTON 

BINGHAM 

NEW entry. A superb top 

of the water venue run 

by Wessex Water lying 

in the rolling hills of the 

Somerset/Dorset border. 

Particularly good early 

and late season with the 

main body of water by 

the dam producing well 

in spring and loch-style 

tactics in the southern 

arm scoring for the rest 

of the season. Quality 

stock ranging from 2lb 

to double-figures. The 

Sutton Bingham Fly 

Fishing Club run regular 

events. 

83 

THORNWOOD 

TROUTMASTERS 


TROUT FISHERY 

Rising nine places because it’s well managed 

and popular with purists who love the fullyfinned, 

streamlined, quality rainbows and 

browns to double-figures at this three-lake 

complex. One of the top small waters in Essex, 

close to Epping Forest and junction 11 of the 

M11. The spring-fed clear water lakes suit 

stalking and have prolific insect life due to 

the gravel, clay and chalk beds. Dry fly works 

almost all year here! 

82 

TROUTMASTERS 


EARITH LAKES 

A MIXED fishery in the 

Cambridgeshire Fens, Earith includes a 12-acre 

trout lake stocked with blue, brown and rainbow 

trout to double-figures. Fishing is mainly from the 

bank, but with a number of punts for hire (floattubes 

permitted for a small launching fee). A 

former gravel pit, the lake goes to 17ft and boasts 

clear water, an undulating bed and a rich habitat 

that produces handsome, hard-fighting trout. 

81 

GLUDY LAKE 

PURE catch and release allows the 

rainbows, blues and browns to develop full fins 

in as natural an environment as possible. The 

management allows only 10 anglers maximum 

a day, ensuring an enjoyable day’s sport and low 

angling pressure. Lying in the Brecon Beacons, 

the tree-lined, 7.6-acre, spring-fed lake has rich 

feeding to olives, buzzers, damsels, sedges and 

fry. Day lodge and tuition, as well as boats. 


TROUTMASTERS 


eSThwaiTe 

A 280-acre glacial lake in the Lake 

District, offering varied boat and bank fishing 

for rainbows and browns and excellent 

facilities. Stocked all season, the staff are very 

welcoming. Rowing or motor boats available, 

also a large on-site tackle shop and café. 

Tuition and guiding may also be booked. Pike 

and coarse fishing also available. 

Orchill lOch 

WIDELY known as one of the best 

small waters in Scotland’s central belt. The 

4.5-acres are home to rich feeding so it’s small 

wonder that it’s a great dry fly water. It’s an old 

estate water in a quiet setting. Stocked twice 

weekly with rainbows, averaging 2 to 2.5lb. 

Record 15lb with many in the 3 to 8lb range. 

Located near Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder. 

laKe vyrnwy 

FISHING is part of a wider sporting 

estate and managed by the estate team. This 

is one of the largest and most scenic trout 

fisheries in Wales. Flyfishing only and from 10 

boats for wild brown trout stocked from Loch 

Leven by the Victorians. Some rainbows are 

stocked offering fish to 9lb. Day tickets and 

inclusive fishing breaks available. 

77 

TROUTMASTERS 


NEW 

ThrUnTOn lOng crag 

ENTRY 

NEW entry. Fully equipped with a beautiful lodge and sturdy wooden 

fishing platforms these spring-fed lakes are gaining popularity in 

Northumberland. The fishing for browns, rainbows and blue trout 

is described as exceptional. A former brick works, careful planning 

was employed to make this one of the finest stillwaters in the region. 

Extremely proactive and, with three instructors, it’s the ideal place to 

learn to fly fish. 

NEW 

claTwOrThy ENTRY 

NEW entry run by Wessex Water. 

Scenic with lots of secret bays, Clatworthy is a 

flyfisher’s gem. Fish are stocked from 2lb with 

some 7-15lb fish to make things interesting 

- an average five-fish bag can weigh 10-18lb! 

Rainbows and browns reared from fishery’s 

own farm. Floating lines and Hi-D lines with a 

variety of flies work well. 

TROUTMASTERS 


BlacKDyKe 

OVER five-years this fishery has 

established itself as a premier small water in 

the eastern counties. The clear 8-acre lake at 

Hockwold-cum-Wilton near Thetford, Norfolk 

has grassy banks for ease of casting, a terrific 

lodge, toilets, hot and cold drinks/light snacks, 

Wheelyboat, a few rowing boats with 

float-tubes welcome. Prolific fly life 

with hard-fighting rainbows and browns 

from 2 to 12lb. 

“A superb fishery with a truly 

amazing lodge and views. 

Thoroughly recommended.” 


74 

FOreMarK 

A POPULAR 230-acre Derbyshire fishery run by Severn Trent Water 

and Ifor Jones. Famed for its quality rainbows and browns – with 

some extremely impressive bag limits caught over the years. 

Located between Ashby de-la-Zouch and Burton-upon-Trent the 

fishing is from bank and boat. Rich feeding to buzzers, fry and a little 

mayfly too. Guiding, 20 boats, lodge, car parks, varied ticket options. 

ThOrnTOn reServOir 

A UNIQUE lodge in the shape of an 

upturned boat! This peaceful, scenic 75-acre 

reservoir near the M1 and Leicester offers 

rowing boats, bank fishing and welcomes 

float-tubers. Ifor Jones has managed this 

water for 33 years. Opens early February to 

mid-November offering good rainbows. Tuition, 

toilets, car park, kill and release options. 

TROUTMASTERS 


new haylie lOch 

A 3.6-acre hillside loch on the Haylie 

Brae, Largs with stunning views over the 

Cumbrae isles of Bute and Arran. Browns, 

rainbows, blues and tiger trout plus some 

wild browns available. Flyfishing mostly with 

a small amount of bait fishing allowed at the 

top of the loch. Variety of release and kill ticket 

options. Lodge, tea/coffee, hot and cold snacks, 

toilet, tackle and flies for sale. 

Sharpley SpringS 

A POPULAR fishery offering a variety 

of outdoor activities including paint balling! 

Famed for its blues, browns and rainbows to 

20lb, with the fishery record being 23.6lb. 

There are seven lakes altogether including five 

fly lakes, a children’s worm lake and a tuition 

lake. The water is spring-fed, clear and from 

a limestone source. Fishing platforms, good 

disabled access, lodge, free tea and coffee. 


NEW 

GLENCORSE RSV ENTRY 

NEW entry and it’s easy to see why. 

A very popular Scottish fishery with stunning 

scenery and rainbow, blue, brown trout and a 

few brook trout. Only a few minutes away from 

Edinburgh at the foot of the Pentland Hills 

near Flotterson. Recently taken over by Bill 

Taylor, who manages other popular fisheries. 

Boat-only venue with timber cabin and snacks 

as well as some tackle items for sale. 

TROUTMASTERS 


NEW 

LANGLEY DAM ENTRY 

NEW ENTRY. Langley has gained a 

great reputation over the last 25 years and 

is now a premier water in the north east. 

Located eight miles west of Hexham in the 

Northumbrian hills it offers good value sport 

to rainbows and a few browns, blues and tiger 

trout. Stock ranges from 1lb 8oz to 6lb with 

larger 10-18lb fish stocked regularly. Five boats 

available and plenty of bank fishing space. 

69 

NEW 

CARRON VALLEY FISHERY ENTRY 

JUST a 10 minute drive from Stirling, Carron offers 

some of the best quality trout fishing in central 

Scotland, for stocked rainbows and wild browns. The 

1,000-acre loch is four miles long and ¾ of a mile wide 

and is widely celebrated as one of the most scenic 

reservoirs in all of Scotland . Boat and bank fishing is 

offered. The fish can reach huge sizes, which attracts 

anglers from far and wide. 

TROUTMASTERS 


MORTON FISHERY 

WITH plenty of facilities and large 

trout Morton, at Mid Calder, Livingston is 

beautiful and popular. At a roomy 22 acres 

there are 12 boats and ¾-of-a-mile of bank 

space with seven new fishing platforms. 

Despite depths to 40ft there’s extremely good 

surface activity and rich feeding. Fly and bait 

fishing offered with varied ticket options. 

Rainbows, blue and brown trout. 

PRESS MANOR 

A FORMER Victorian reservoir 

tucked away on the edge of the Peak District 

and covering 5.5 acres, now graced by a new 

lodge that completes this dependable water. 

Run by England international flyfisherman 

Bernie Maher, it’s stocked with rainbows, 

blues and browns averaging 2lb. Bank fishing 

is complemented by four boats including a 

Wheelyboat. Flies and tackle items for sale. 

TWEEDDALE TROUT 

FISHERY 

A HUGELY-popular three-pool venue, two of 

them fly-only. Regularly stocked with rainbows 

and browns from 2lb to doubles. Reintroduced 

its annual membership this season, costing 

£80. Fly anglers are allowed to retain doubles 

and in-season browns. A snack bar and tackle 

shop offers gear and a range of hot and cold 

food and drinks. Corporates welcome. 


COLDINGHAM LOCH 

THE North Sea lurks just over the ridge 

rising from the eastern bank of this charming 

22-acre loch in the Scottish Borders. One of 

Scotland’s oldest established fisheries, its 

spring-fed depths provide top quality flyfishing 

for brown, blue and rainbow trout from bank 

or boat. Stocking takes place throughout the 

season, with fish over 2lb. Comfortable lodge 

with self-catering accommodation. 

TROUTMASTERS 


“I cannot think of a more scenic 

water to fish. It’s beautiful here 

and it has the trout to match.” 

DUNGANNON PARK 

THIS beautiful boat and bank 

water of 12-acres lies within a large leisure 

park with visitor centre, caravan park and 

sports facilities. The management are highly 

proactive. The fishing can be top notch too 

with full disabled access via stands and a 

Wheelyboat. Run by Dungannon Park and South 

Tyrone Council the fish are of decent quality 

with varied ticket options. 

64 FRENSHAM 

TROUT FISHERY 

A COLLECTION of six stream-fed 

pools located in a quiet valley on 

the Surrey/Hampshire border. 

Kingfishers, a waterfall and ancient 

woodland add to its appeal. Find 

stocked rainbows, browns and wild 

browns. Two lodges offering light 

refreshments and tackle for hire and 

sale. Wildlife and History Trail plus 

other events. Lodge, refreshments, 

country clothing for sale. 

TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


RAYGILL 

CELEBRATING 25 years as a family 

business you won’t find a more unique small 

water setting. The site, near Lothersdale, 

Yorkshire is an old quarry and the stone cliff 

banks make an interesting backdrop. There 

are four well-stocked lakes with beautiful 

trout and coarse fish including some hefty 

pike. Indeed, the venue prides itself on offering 

variety. Refreshments and clothing for sale. 


60 

TROUTMASTERS 


GLEN OF ROTHES TROUT FISHERY 

THERE’S something for everyone at the ‘Glen’ including 

trout and coarse fishing. Located at Elgin, Morayshire there’s 

6-acres of multi-loch fishing amid Highland scenery. Stocked 

with rainbows (18lb), browns, blues and brooks averaging 2lb. 

Fly-only with two bait lochs. Mature lakes and top dry fly sport. 

Tackle for hire, tuition, hot food, tagged fish competition. 

TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


BURNS TROUT FISHERY 

TRANQUIL setting near Tarbolton 

in ‘Burns country’. Four lochs each offering 

something different. Main loch is fly-only, 

Triangle Loch has bait in certain areas. Small 

Loch is catch and release and there’s a large 

bait pond. All waters stocked weekly with 

rainbows and browns averaging 1.5 to 2lb plus 

some doubles. Small lodge, refreshments, 

parking, disabled access and toilets. 

BURNHOUSE LOCHAN 

LOCATED near Bonnybridge, 

Stirlingshire there’s a purpose-built 

Scandinavian bothy overlooking the 2.5-acre 

lochan. Expect rainbows, blues, tigers and 

browns from eight non-slip jetties or a boat 

on request. Special parking for disabled/OAP, 

toilet, kitchen, refreshments, free tea/coffees 

for regulars, good paths, and a holding tank 

ensuring proper acclimatisation of stock. 

CHATTON TROUT 

FISHERY 

OWNED and run by the Brown family, close to 

Chatton village, Northumberland. A quality 

trout fishery in relaxed surroundings and great 

views of the Cheviot Hills. The three lakes – 

Chatton Lake, Ross Lake and Dunnydeer Lake 

hold trout well into double-figures. Barbless 

hooks only. Lodge, tackle shop, eating area, 

hot/cold food, drinks, toilets and a car park. 

ROXHOLME GRANGE FLY FISHERY 

BASED at Carlton in Lindrick, North Notts, Roxholme 

is a family-run, well-maintained fishery. Browns, blues and 

rainbows from 2lb-16lb enjoy well-oxygenated water and rich 

fly life. Fishery ethos is to enhance and protect the trout’s 

environment. Lodge, toilets, snacks, hot and cold drinks, 

weather shelters, lakeside tables/fishing stations, tuition, 

tackle hire/sale and parking. 


Join the Angling Trust 

and Fish Legal 

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Love fishing? Then help us protect it! 

Whether you’re an individual angler, fishery owner or an 

angling club, become a member today. Help protect 

your sport and take advantage of a wealth of 

membership benefits and discounts: 

• Free specialist legal advice and assistance for 

clubs and fisheries who join Fish Legal 

• Over 30% discounted Civil Liability insurance 

from insure4sport for member fisheries 

• Support for clubs and fisheries from the 

Angling Trust Development Team 

• 50% subscription discount for fisheries who 

join our “10% Club” 

• Free advertising through the Angling 

Trust website and social media for 

fishery and club members 

• Individual members can 

save 25% on tackle 

insurance from 

Fishing Care, 

specialist angling 

insurance provider 

• Great discounts from a 

range of partner retailers 

Join or sign up for free e-news at 

www.anglingtrust.net 

or call 01568 620447

TROUTMASTERS 


LOUGH CARRA 

COVERING 1,560 hectares, Carra is 

Ireland’s largest marl lake and is part of the Great 

Western Lakes complex. The islands and ragged 

shoreline make for interesting fishing. Sadly, 

modern intensive agriculture caused a significant 

decline in the quality of the trout fishing but the wild 

browns are still free rising and there’s plenty of pike 

too. The Lough Carra Trout Anglers hold regular 

competitions. 

LEIGHTON RESERVOIR 

EXPOSED and large at 105 acres with 

depths over 100 feet in places, but bank-only 

Leighton attracts regulars in search of large 

rainbows and browns often well into doublefigures. 

Located at Masham, Wensleydale, 

Yorkshire and surrounded by stunning scenery, 

you’ll need exact change because the fishing 

hut runs an envelope system. Lodge, toilet, 

parking and disabled facilities. 

53 

BLAKEWELL TROUT FISHERY 

ARGUABLY Devon’s premier small water 

which also has its own fish farm and water 

garden centre. The 30-year-old established 

5-acre lake has varying depths and bays. 

Fully finned trout stocked from 2lb to 21lb – 

kill tickets only. Farm shop, family fishing, 

hot food and refreshments. Current record is 

22lb 13oz rainbow, brown 13lb 2oz. 

. 

TROUTMASTERS 


PENNINE TROUT FARM 

& FISHERY 

WITH one of the finest views a fishery could 

wish for, this valley side water in the Lancashire 

Pennines is immaculately maintained 

throughout. Two spring-fed lakes total five acres, 

with depths to 13m. Rainbows and browns from 

2lb to 20lb plus are stocked, the record catch 

being 29lb. Tackle for sale or hire, hot and cold 

snacks, licensed restaurant. 

TROUTMASTERS 


TENTERDEN 

TROUT WATERS 

THIS Kent venue was one of the first stillwater 

fisheries in South East England, and it enjoys 

an excellent reputation. Three lakes totalling 

5.5 acres are stocked regularly with rainbows 

and browns from 2lb to 12lb. Caught fish go in 

bankside retainer baskets and anglers select 

their limit at the end of the session, with all 

other fish returned. Release option. 


TROUTMASTERS 


lough shEElin 

A RICH limestone lough, 

approximately five miles long and two miles 

wide, in the Republic of Ireland’s Co Cavan. Its 

high pH factor and low average depth combine 

to endow it with the capacity to carry a bigger 

stock of brown trout than any other Irish lough. 

In recent years, stocks have reached over 

100,000 trout exceeding 8in, 40% of which 

were 2lb-4lb with some much bigger. 

aldErnEuk FishEry 

DUMFRIES & Galloway’s premier 

small water is a family-owned fishery run by 

dedicated anglers. Spring-fed, the water is 

clear enough to stalk trout from 3lb to 

8lb-plus. Average weight is a credible 4lb. Blue 

trout, browns and tiger trout accompany the 

rainbows. Staff are only too willing to assist 

and there’s complimentary tea and coffee 

available. A small amount of tackle on sale. 

48 Chigboro’ 

ONE of Essex’s popular small 

waters with excellent facilities, including 

on-site restaurant. Four lakes offer variety 

and vary from one acre to 16 acres, with 

depths averaging 6-10ft and trout between 

1lb 8oz and 4lb 8oz. Trades on high standard 

of maintenance, friendly atmosphere and 

satisfied customers. Rainbow record is 

19lb 12oz and brown 14lb 11oz. 

TROUTMASTERS 


47 

bank housE Fly 

FishEry 

WELL-formed, this 2.5-acre Lancashire gem 

was designed for anglers. Twelve small islands 

provide a network of slow swims and pools. 

Water flows evenly, so there are few if any 

‘dead’ areas once summer arrives. Even with a 

full quota of 16 anglers, it doesn’t feel crowded. 

Rainbows, blues, browns and tiger trout and a 

lodge and fully-stocked tackle shop. 

TROUTMASTERS 


46 

barn Elms Fly 

FishEry 

TRANQUIL Berkshire fishery. Averaging 8ft 

depth with abundant insect life, the six-acre 

lake is shaped like a four-leafed clover, offering 

nooks and crannies that can be targeted by 

novice or experienced rods. Stocked weekly 

with rainbows and browns around 2lb, although 

10% of weekly stock is up to 8lb. Norwegian log 

cabin lodge. Corporate days catered for. 

danEbridgE 

FishEriEs 

DELIGHTFUL Cheshire fishery at the foot of 

a hill, in the village of Wincle. Fishing on a 

summer’s evening is a joy. Fed by the River 

Dane, the lake is stocked with fish reared in 

the adjacent farm. A youngsters’ pond nearby, 

heated fisherman’s hut, complete with sofa 

and kitchen that includes a microwave, 

toaster and kettle. 


44 

blaCkwool Farm 

TWO lakes, each of 2.5 acres, enjoy a superb, parkland-style 

location in Sussex and are stocked weekly with rainbows and 

browns of a calibre that has set the fishery record to date at 

24lb 9oz. The fishery’s facilities have just been refurbished and 

the catering available makes it a superb choice as a corporate 

hospitality venue. Just 35 minutes’ drive from London. Tuition 

also available. 

TROUTMASTERS 


lEnChEs lakEs 

TWO spring-fed lakes at this 

Worcestershire fishery whose conservation 

ethos attracts lots of wildlife. The lakes, 

stocked with rainbows, blue and browns 

between 2 and 6lb, offer a variety of features. 

A Scandinavian-style clubhouse is licensed to 

sell alcohol and it’s being extended. Tackle and 

flies available. Certified Caravan Club Site, five 

pitches, tents and motorhomes welcome. 

linlithgow loCh 

PICTURESQUE Linlithgow lies 

between Edinburgh and Falkirk and is 

overlooked by the impressive Linlithgow 

palace. Was famous for large browns but now 

stocks rainbows weekly through the season. 

The ¾-of-a-mile long loch has rich feeding, 

helping fish to grow rapidly and gain condition. 

Nineteen boats to access islands, feeder 

streams, and depths from 2ft to over 60ft. 

dunCton mill 

BEAUTIFUL spring-fed location with 

everything a flyfisher needs for a relaxing day’s 

sport. Showpiece trout can be admired in the 

mill pond and there are excellent facilities and 

various ticket options. Four lakes stocked with 

quality rainbow, brown and tiger trout from 2lb 

upwards, all from their own trout farm. Two 

fully equipped clubhouses with complimentary 

refreshments, lounge seating and log fire. 


40 

TROUTMASTERS 


WiMBleBall lake Country park 

SoUTH West Lakes Trust’s multi-purpose venue offers bank and boat 

fishing for rainbows to 6lb and a catch and release option. Tuition as 

well as extensive facilities including a visitor centre. Season from 

March 15 – october 31, with bank sport till November 30. Mayfly 

hatch late June and buzzers throughout. Flyaking allowed – hire a 

kayak or bring your own. 

lough leane 

LARGEST of the three famous 

Killarney Lakes, Leane lies amid stunning 

scenery yet is a mile from the town centre. As 

well as excellent stock of browns, fished from 

February 15 – October 12, the lough holds spring 

salmon and grilse, fished from January 17 – 

September 30. Access is good and boats and 

guides available. Daily and weekly permits are 

available from tackle dealers in Killarney. 

TROUTMASTERS 


Syon park/alBury 

eState FiSherieS 

NO flyfishing in London? Set in the grounds of 

West London’s Syon House, the six-acre lake is 

regularly stocked with rainbows and browns, 

averaging 2lb 8oz and over 10lb. Or head to 

the three delightful spring-fed lakes that the 

Estate operates in Surrey, centred on Albury, 

near Guildford. All are well-stocked with 

rainbows from the Estate’s own fish farm. 

TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


BriCk FarM lakeS 

SERVED by one of the best lodges 

you’ll encounter, Brick Farm Lakes is located 

in open East Sussex countryside. Three lakes 

totalling around four acres are all stocked 

regularly with rainbow, blue and brown trout, 

ranging from 1lb 8oz to over 10lb. Records 

stand at 20lb (brown) and 18lb 6oz (rainbow). 

Involve the children at no extra cost – those 

16 and under fish on their guardian’s ticket. 

loChter FiShery 

CATERS for numerous outdoor 

activities, three lochs provide 14 acres of 

flyfishing for rainbows of 3-20lb (some browns). 

Stocking of ‘doubles’ recently increased 

and fishery aims to challenge and delight 

newcomers and experienced alike. Two bait 

ponds with smaller trout ideal for groups or 

children. For grown-ups, the Bothy Bar is on 

hand for relaxation afterwards. 

SWanSWater 

JUST five minutes yet a world away 

from the M9/M80 junction near Stirling, 

Swanswater offers flyfishing for top-quality 

trout on three ponds and via bank, boat or floattube 

(for hire or bring your own). The main 10- 

acre loch can host 36 bank rods and has three 

boats for hire. Fish (2-18lb) are stocked daily 

and comprise rainbow, golden, brown, blue and 

a few tiger trout, all reared on site. 


TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


Meon SpringS Fly 

FiShery & FiShing hutS 

HAMPSHIRE fishery offering kill and release 

options on three different waters. Its two main 

lakes, normally gin-clear, have rainbows from 

2lb. Once quota is filled, try the C&R Meon 

Beat, a small remote corner stocked with 1lb 

browns and rainbows, responding only to skilful 

angling. Spacious lodge, refreshments, tackle 

shop, on-site yurts and fishing cottages. 

BellBrook 

trout FiShery 

FAMED for its fishing and scenic setting, 

Bellbrook sits in a 40-acre valley, bordered by 

woodland and hilly meadows. The six lakes 

– all but one stepped down the valley, with 

water cascading from one to the next – all fish 

differently (rainbows, blue and browns) and 

include specimen-only lakes. All spring- and 

brook-fed with good supply of natural food. 

Chalk SpringS 

trout FiShery 

A HAVEN in a wooded valley on the Duke of 

Norfolk’s Estate at Arundel, West Sussex. Four 

spring-fed lakes totalling five acres, cool and 

clear water. Stalk quality browns and rainbows 

stocked daily. Controlled weed and abundant 

plant life guarantee insects. Try Damsels, 

Hare’s Ear, PTN and lead bugs – bright flies 

also effective, especially in the winter. 

31 

SCreeBe eStateS 

Co GALWAY’S Screebe House is the centre-piece for a flyfishing 

bonanza that takes in numerous loughs and rivers on the Screebe 

estate, offering anglers and their ‘other halves’ a luxurious getaway, as 

well as the chance of brown trout, sea trout and salmon alike. Screebe 

will take care of the required permits, traditional fishing boats are 

available and the services of a gillie can also be reserved. Screebe 

House itself is a Victorian fishing lodge that has become famous for its 

comfort, hospitality and fine cuisine. With landscaped gardens, antique 

interiors and views over Camus Bay, it’s a fishing lodge in the way that 

St Paul’s Cathedral is a church… 


LADYBOWER 

RESERVOIR 

IN the Peak District, 504-acre Ladybower offers 

13 miles of bank fishing, along with 15 boats, all 

at reasonable prices. Stocked rainbows (when 

it opened in the ‘40s, this was one of the first 

UK waters to stock rainbows) and browns, plus 

a head of wild browns are in this Y-shaped 

water. Nymphs, dries and lures do well. 

Scenic surroundings. 

28 

TROUTMASTERS 


RAVENSTHORPE 

A 100-acre Victorian reservoir, one of the 

country’s oldest trout fisheries, along with 

Blagdon. Lies in a sheltered valley offering 

boat and bank fishing for quality rainbows and 

browns. Huge pike also caught and often on 

fly. Terrific buzzer sport as well as damsels in 

June and sedge on summer evenings. Superb 

boat facilities and there’s a small lodge with 

hot drinks as well as flies and leader for sale. 

29 CARSINGTON 

BOAT-only 750-acre water set 

amid Derbyshire rolling hills. Anglers like the 

tranquillity, crystal clear waters and quality 

rainbows and browns stocked weekly to 5lb 

all season. There’s a fleet of 16 boats, plus 

two Wheelyboats. A small selection of tackle 

available on site as well as refreshments at the 

watersports centre/visitor centre restaurant. 

TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


AVINGTON TROUT FISHERY 

IF the Test and Itchen are jewels among 

Hampshire’s rivers, chalkstream-fed Avington 

enjoys similar status where its stillwaters are 

concerned. The three clear lakes are a stalker’s 

paradise. That the rainbow record stands at 28lb 

says it all. High quality rainbows, reared on site, 

are introduced daily, with browns added from 

spring onwards. 

LOCKWOOD BECK 

NORTH Yorkshire’s proactive 

stillwater with courses and competitions. Now 

in his 19th season, Gordon Byers ensures his 

60-acre water is the best it can be. Floattubes 

welcome, improved access for bank and 

disabled anglers, better facilities, extended 

lodge, winter bait fishing. But tradition is still 

upheld. Anglers enjoy tranquillity, rich feeding 

and quality fish from 1lb 8oz to doubles. 


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25 

PALM SPRINGS 

THE UK’s only small water salmon 

fishery. Fish farmer Ben Green lovingly 

rears quality hard-fighting salmon, 

stocking them into his one-acre lake 

near Greetham Golf Course, not far 

from Rutland. With clear water and 

15ft depths anglers watch magnificent 

fish cruise by. And when they take, 

you’re in for a treat! Stout leader and 

strong tackle required. Fish to 30lb 

taken – fly only. Lodge, parking. 

TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


INNIS 

ARGUABLY Cornwall’s premier 

small water – close to the Eden Project – 

with three mature lakes offering a variety of 

opportunities. Novice or experienced anglers 

feel at home here. Strong home-grown 

rainbows are an exciting quarry from open bank 

or wooden jetties as well as boats. Regular 

competitions, great facilities, corporates and 

teams welcome, tuition available. 

BEWL WATER 

THE South East’s premier trout 

reservoir, lying in Wealden beauty, caused a 

stir when it embraced ‘any method’ fishing to 

remain profitable. Nevertheless, good quality 

fly sport still exists with hard-fighting blues, 

browns and rainbows. The 770 acres has three 

arms with inlets and bays. Choose from 54 

boats or miles of bank. Regular match venue 

with friendly staff and superb facilities. 

PITSFORD 

AT 750 acres this is the third-largest 

of Anglian Water’s reservoirs and is separated 

by a causeway. Home to quality rainbows and 

browns, and with a boat fleet and facilities 

befitting an Anglian Water venue. Superb bank 

and boat sport with overwintered fish as well 

as terrific buzzer and damsel hatches. Tuition, 

lodge and tackle shop, plus a range of ticket 

options, including catch and release. 

TROUTMASTERS 


21 

ELINOR TROUT 

FISHERY 

AT 53 acres, Elinor is a rich Midlands 

stillwater producing cracking 

resident rainbows and browns. 

Home to many competitions, anglers 

respect manager Ed Foster and love 

the many bays and features offering 

varied sport. Huge damsel migration, 

terrific summer evening sedge sport, 

rowing boats, electric engines. Good 

facilities, toilets, parking. 


TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


ELLERDINE LAKES 

FOUR spring-fed lakes, each with its 

own character, make up this popular outpost 

in Shropshire. Rainbow, brown and blue trout 

average 3lb, but fish to 20lb are caught daily. At 

the fishery’s hub is a splendid new timber lodge 

that incorporates a shop and a seating and 

eating area, in the vicinity of a wood-burning 

stove. All lakes are designed for easy casting 

and are usually blessed with clear water. 

EYEBROOK FISHERY 

HISTORIC Eyebrook – a practice water 

for the famous WW2 Dambusters raid – has 

scenic rolling hills and woodland. Being just 

400 acres is partly its attraction. Andy Miller 

heads up a friendly team. Great facilities, lodge, 

and extensive tackle shop. Quality resident 

browns and rainbows. Famed for its floating 

line sport with average depths of 17ft. Attracts 

the discerning, imitative angler. 

DEVER SPRINGS TROUT 

FISHERY 

A STALKER’S paradise, Dever has the fish to 

reward your efforts. This picturesque corner 

of Hampshire sees 20lb-plus fish emerge from 

the two spring-fed lakes, totalling six acres, 

every season. Minimum size 4lb, stocked daily. 

Spacious lodge and you are free to fish the 

adjacent stretch of the River Dever. Recently 

introduced some incredible browns. 

18 

TROUTMASTERS 


TAVISTOCK TROUT FISHERY 

FOR 23 years, Tavistock’s delightful flyfishing lakes have 

been providing anglers with great sport on the edge of 

the Dartmoor National Park. Five lakes, totalling four 

acres, are fed by the River Tavy, whose waters keep the 

fishery’s weed growth to a minimum and its oxygen levels 

high. The fishery is stocked most days with rainbow trout 

and every week with browns and its record catches are 

31lb 11oz (rainbows) and 16lb 4oz (browns). You could 

even make the fishery the base for your next West 

Country holiday, with seven holiday cottages on site. A 

tackle shop by the lakes sells fishing permits, and has a 

selection of tackle for sale or hire. 


16 

GARNFFRWD TROUT FISHERY & COUNTRY HOLIDAY 

A BIG-FISH water in the Welsh valleys, Garnffrwd is 10 miles north of Llanelli, 

and home to formidable rainbow, blue and brown trout, many of them ‘home-grown’. 

When your fishing is done, you can stay in one of several home-from-home lodges on 

site. Tucked in a leafy hollow, the five-acre lake has an abundance of bays, bridges and 

islands – perfect for the angler who likes to think his way around a venue. Spring-fed, the 

lake teems with aquatic life. The fishery has its own shop, and permits can be bought for 

some of the UK’s best salmon and sea trout rivers within 15 minutes of the fishery. 

TROUTMASTERS 


STOCKS RESERVOIR 

STOCKS is North-West England’s 

largest fly fishery with 4.5 miles of fishable 

shoreline and 350 acres of open water, all at 

the head of the Hodder Valley. Very rich fly life. 

Well stocked with quality rainbows, blues and 

some huge browns reared in its own farms, this 

water is served by 30 boats, a lodge and well 

stocked tackle shop, a café selling hot and cold 

snacks and separate toilets. 

TROUTMASTERS 


TROUTMASTERS 


GRAIGLWYD SPRINGS & 

HOLIDAY COTTAGES 

SMALL lake, big fish; a formula that works 

at this scenic 2.5-acre water on the edge of 

Snowdonia. The lake is generally deep, with 

a large number of ‘doubles’ (average is 5-6lb) 

taken 10-15ft down. Rainbows, browns and 

blues reared on site, largest go in at 30lb. 

Lodge, toilets, tackle shop, free coffee/tea, 

fish storage area. 

LECHLADE AND 

BUSHYLEAZE 

ARGUABLY the UK’s top small water with 

thousands visiting annually. Close to the M4, 

expertly managed, great facilities including 

boats, lodge, tackle shop and on-site fish 

farm. Lechlade Lake contains incredible fish 

including double-figure browns, while larger 

Bushyleaze offers variety. A fishery that’s 

always looking to improve and expand. 

TROUTMASTERS 


FARMOOR II 

OXFORDSHIRE’S 400-acre Farmoor 2 

is the ultimate concrete bowl. Run by Thames 

Water, it’s fertile, with abundant insect life. 

After the nymph and dry fly tactics of spring 

and summer, daddies appear, prefacing a 

fry-bash that can last into December before 

bloodworm, snail and hoglice take over. 

Rainbows and browns. Boats available, but 

banks offer easy access to deep water. 

LLYN BRENIG 

RESERVOIR 

REGARDED as one of the best top-of-thewater 

venues, 920-acre Brenig is popular with 

competitions. Stocked with rainbows but home 

to wild browns. Fish are reared on site 

so acclimatise quickly, offering fine sport. 

Bank fishing available but boats are best, 

although pre-booking is advised. Main methods 

are dries, wets and the ‘washing-line’. 

27

drayCote water 

AN outlier in a region known more for 

coarse fishing, 600-acre Draycote waves the 

flyfishing flag with gusto. Its buzzer hatches 

and fry are exceptional. Run by Severn-Trent 

Water, Draycote has 30 boats available and 

both rainbows and browns are stocked. Bank 

anglers may pre-book parking permits for the 

perimeter road. Tuition/guiding arranged, and 

there’s a well-stocked tackle shop and café. 

9loCh leVen 

ONE of Scotland’s most famous flyfishing 

lochs and steeped in history. Mary Queen of 

Scots was imprisoned in the castle and the 

resident browns are of such amazing quality 

that they’ve been stocked all over the world, 

mainly at the time of the British Empire. Some 

truly incredible fish have been taken from 

this triangular shaped water spanning 13.3km 

square and 6km long. 

TROUTMASTERS 


8llyn Clywedog 

BUILT on the River Severn headwaters, 

615-acre Clywedog is arguably Wales’ premier 

trout water. Run by Llanidloes & District AA, 

all proceeds return to the fishery, resulting 

in modern facilities. Ticket prices are low due 

to an on-site fish farm stocking 30,000 trout 

annually. At 900ft above sea level winters can 

be a challenge but altitude is advantageous in 

summer. Produced some huge trout. 

4Chew Valley lake 

THE jewel in Bristol Water’s crown 

opened in 1956. At 1,200 acres the reservoir 

lies within the beautiful rolling Mendip Hills 

over what was once rich farmland and, being 

shallow (average 14ft), is home to some of the 

finest nymph and dry fly sport in the UK. The 

superbly rich feeding produces rainbows and 

browns of great quality. Famous for pike, which 

are regularly taken on fly to the tune of 30lb. 

2rutland water 

FEW would argue with 

Rutland Water being in the top 2. 

Since opening in 1976, this 3,100- 

acre reservoir run by Anglian 

Water has been flyfishing’s 

‘Wembley Stadium’ – its vast 

open water, many bays and 

scenic splendour are unrivalled. 

But most of all this rich water is 

home to abundant aquatic life 

which, in turn, produces superb 

quality rainbows and browns 

that are the stuff of angling 

dreams. Fly anglers flock from 

all over the UK in search of their 

prize – an overwintered Rutland 

fish. A thriving competition 

venue with 65 powered boats, 

excellent staff, extensive 

facilities and onsite tackle shop. 

A tough start this season puts 

Rutland in second this year. 

TROUTMASTERS 


3Blagdon lake 

CHEW’S neighbour, Blagdon – also run by 

Bristol Water – is one of the country’s oldest 

stocked trout reservoirs – operating for over 

100 years. Like Chew its 440 acres are shallow, 

so there’s rich feeding and trout grow on well, 

with nymph and dry fly the top methods. Its 

iconic lodge adds to the history, and fly anglers 

everywhere have heard of Blagdon. Eighteen 

rowing boats with trout reared on site. 


7lough mask 

CORRIB’S northern neighbour, Lough 

Mask, flows into Corrib via an underground 

stream and matches it in terms of the flyfishing 

offered. Located in Co Mayo, its 20,500 acres 

is home to quality wild brown trout and ferox. 

Just like Corrib, Mask is famed for its duckfly 

(buzzer), mayfly and olive hatches with anglers 

from all over the globe visiting each year. Book 

fishing via hotels and guides. 

6lake of menteith 

SCOTLAND’S premier boat-only stocked 

trout lake. Located on the Carse of Stirling, 

the ‘Lake’ is a regular competition water. It’s 

1.5 miles long and one mile wide with plenty of 

history – Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of 

Scots visited Inchmahome island monastery. 

Quality rainbows and browns, and there’s 

winter pike fishing. Spectacular views of the 

Menteith Hills dominate the skyline. 

5lough CorriB 

IN western Ireland, Corrib is the secondlargest 

Irish lake, behind Lough Neagh. Lying 

mostly in Co Galway, Corrib covers 176 km sq. 

and has some of the world’s finest browns. Its 

islands and bays offer varied fly sport, notably 

duckfly (buzzer) early season, then mayfly 

and olives. The dedicated troll for ferox with 

Ceri Jones’ Corrib record being 23lb. Fishing is 

associated with hotels and local guides (gillies). 

1 

TROUTMASTERS 


grafham water 

ConGraTuLaTions to Grafham. The 

1500-acre water tops the tree this year 

and when you see the fish quality it’s hard 

to disagree. okay, its circular form makes 

it difficult to fish in certain winds due to 

a lack of shelter. But many argue that 

Grafham’s rainbows are the uK’s finest due 

to the rich feeding – buzzer, fry and the 

invasive shrimp. again, superb staff, boat 

fleet and facilities. 


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Premier Fly fshery 

near Redbrook village in 

Gloucestershire, England, 

adjoining the border with 

Monmouthshire, Wales. It is 

located adjacent to the River 

Wye and is set in the heart 

of the Wye Valley Area of 

Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

The venue itself comprises 

3 main pools and a nursery 

pool. Main pool no. 1 or ‘Gin’ 

pool is crystal clear (spring 

fed) where stalking is the 

order of the day. Pools 2 & 

3 (middle & lower pools) 

are less clear, being stream 

fed, though vision through 

the water is still very good - 

wear those polaroids! 

The fshery is stocked 

weekly with 21/2-3lb 

premium trout maintaining 

a very healthy head of fsh. 

Also stocked are larger trout 

6-12lbs, as sporting fsh to 

be released, for our clients 

added pleasure. 

FACILITIES: 

æ Onsite parking 

æ 

æ 

æ 

æ 

æ 

æ 

Well equipped lodge 

with tackle shop 

Rods for hire 

Tuition available 

Pool side access for 

anglers with physical 

disabilities 

Accessible washroom 

facilities for those with 

physical disabilities 

Food including 

all day full Bigwell 

breakfast; Lunch time 

special; Sandwiches; 

Snacks; Cold drinks. 

Complimentary hot 

beverages for clients 

Proprietor: Gary Gray. Bigwell Flyfishery, Tinmans Green, Redbrook, Monmouth. NP25 4NB 

Tel: 01600 772904 | Email: info@bigwellflyfishery.co.uk | Facebook.com/bigwellflyfishery 

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