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Home » UK Fly Fishing Lakes & Rivers: The Best Spots for Anglers

UK Fly Fishing Lakes & Rivers: The Best Spots for Anglers

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, there are plenty of options for you to explore. Some of the most popular fly fishing destinations in the UK include the River Frome and River Stour in Dorset, the River Itchen in Hampshire, and the Lake District. Each of these locations offers something different, from coarse fly fishing for chub, grayling, and trout to premier trout streams and Stillwater fly fishing. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your preferences and skill level.

So, whether you’re looking to catch your first fish or you’re searching for a new challenge, the UK’s fly-fishing lakes and rivers are waiting for you. With so many beautiful locations to choose from, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the great outdoors and enjoy the thrill of the catch.

Fly Fishing Lakes & Rivers by County

Types of Fish in UK Lakes and Rivers

When it comes to fly fishing in the UK, there is no shortage of fish species to target. From the classic brown trout to the elusive sea trout, there is a wide variety of fish that you can catch in UK lakes and rivers. Here are some of the most common types of fish that you can expect to find:

Trout

Trout are the most common fish species found in UK lakes and rivers. There are several types of trout that you can catch, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and wild brown trout. Brown trout are the most widespread and can be found in almost every river and lake in the UK. Rainbow trout are also common and are often stocked in lakes and reservoirs.

Salmon

Salmon are one of the most prized fish species for fly fishermen in the UK. They are known for their incredible fighting ability and are often caught on large rivers such as the Tay, Usk, and Wye. Salmon can grow to impressive sizes and can weigh over 30lbs.

Char

Char are a type of salmonid that are found in some of the colder, more remote lakes in the UK. They are often caught by fly fishermen using small, lightweight flies. Char are known for their beautiful markings and are a prized catch for many anglers.

Grayling

Grayling are a type of salmonid that are found in many UK rivers. They are known for their delicate beauty and are often caught using small, lightweight flies. Grayling are a popular target for fly fishermen in the winter months when other fish species are less active.

Best Fly Fishing Seasons in the UK

The UK offers some of the best fly fishing in the world, with a range of rivers and lakes to choose from. But when is the best time to go fly fishing in the UK? Let’s take a look at the best fly fishing seasons in the UK.

Spring

Spring is a great time to go fly fishing in the UK. This is when the March Brown mayfly hatch occurs, which is a significant event for fly fishermen. The March Brown hatch usually occurs in late March or early April, and it is a great time to catch brown trout. The fish are often more active during the day, and they are more likely to take a fly.

Summer

Summer is also a great time to go fly fishing in the UK. The evenings are longer, and there is often an evening rise, where the fish are more likely to take a dry fly. This is a great time to catch brown trout and grayling. The fishing season in the UK usually runs from March to September, so summer is the peak season for fly fishing.

Autumn

Autumn is a good time to go fly fishing in the UK, especially in September and October. This is when the mayfly hatch occurs, and it is a great time to catch brown trout. The fish are often more active during the day, and they are more likely to take a fly.

Winter

Winter can be a challenging time for fly fishing in the UK, but it is still possible to catch fish. The fishing season in the UK usually ends in September, but some rivers and lakes are open all year round. Grayling is a popular fish to catch in the winter, and they are often more active during the day.

In conclusion, the best time to go fly fishing in the UK depends on the season. Spring is a great time to catch brown trout during the March Brown hatch, summer is the peak season for fly fishing, autumn is a good time to catch brown trout during the mayfly hatch, and winter can be a challenging time but still possible to catch fish. Keep in mind that the fishing season in the UK usually runs from March to September, but some rivers and lakes are open all year round.

Fly Fishing in England

If you are looking for a great fly fishing destination in the UK, England is home to some of the best spots. From the chalkstreams of Hampshire to the rivers of Yorkshire Dales, there are plenty of options for anglers of all levels.

One of the most popular fly fishing destinations in England is the Lake District. With its beautiful scenery and abundant fish, it’s easy to see why. Lakes like Windermere and Ullswater are home to brown trout and other species, making them great spots for fly fishing.

Another great spot for fly fishing in England is the River Eden in Cumbria. This river is known for its trout and grayling, and there are plenty of peaceful beats to hone your river fly fishing technique.

If you’re looking for chalkstreams, Hampshire is the place to be. The River Itchen is a premier trout stream, while the River Test is known for its large brown trout. These rivers are also home to grayling and other species, making them great for anglers of all levels.

Yorkshire Dales is another great spot for fly fishing in England. The River Wharfe and River Ure offer great fishing opportunities, while the town of Hawes is a popular spot for anglers looking to fish the East Lyn.

Finally, if you’re looking for coarse fly fishing, Dorset is a great spot. The River Frome and River Stour are home to chub, grayling, and trout, making them great spots for anglers of all levels.

Overall, England is home to some of the best fly fishing spots in the UK. Whether you’re looking for trout, grayling, or other species, there’s something for everyone.

Fly Fishing in Wales

Wales offers some of the best fly fishing locations in the UK, with plenty of rivers and lakes to choose from. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, there is something for everyone.

Rivers

Wales has a number of rivers that are perfect for fly fishing. The River Wye is one of the most famous and is home to a variety of fish, including brown trout, grayling, and salmon. The River Usk is another popular choice and is known for its large brown trout. The River Teifi is also worth a visit, with its clear waters and abundance of fish.

Lakes

If you prefer lake fishing, Wales has plenty of options. Llyn Clywedog is a popular choice, with its deep waters and large brown trout. Llyn Brenig is another great option, with its peaceful location and different varieties of hard-fighting trout. Aberystwyth Angling Association has several lakes to choose from, including Llyn Blaenmelindwr and Llyn Coron.

Fishing Guides

If you are new to fly fishing or want to improve your skills, hiring a fishing guide can be a great option. There are several guides available in Wales, including Fly Fishing Wales and Louis Noble Fly Fishing. They can provide expert advice and take you to the best fishing spots.

Licenses

Before you go fly fishing in Wales, you will need to purchase a fishing license. These can be purchased online or from a local fishing tackle shop. Prices vary depending on the length of the license and whether you are a resident or non-resident.

Overall, Wales is a fantastic destination for fly fishing. With its beautiful rivers and lakes, experienced guides, and abundant fish, it’s no wonder that anglers from all over the world come to fish here.

Fishing Spots: Lakes

If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing fishing experience, then fly fishing in one of the many lakes in the UK might be just what you need. Here are some of the best fishing spots for lake fishing in the UK:

Esthwaite Water

Esthwaite Water is one of the most popular trout lakes in the UK. Located in the Lake District, this lake is home to brown and rainbow trout, and is known for its clear waters and stunning scenery. With a maximum depth of 68 feet, Esthwaite Water is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Bassenthwaite

Bassenthwaite is another great lake for trout fishing in the Lake District. This lake is home to brown trout, as well as pike, perch, and roach. With a maximum depth of 70 feet, Bassenthwaite is a popular spot for both fly fishing and spin fishing.

Other Lakes

There are plenty of other lakes in the UK that are great for fishing. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Malham Tarn
  • Haweswater
  • Derwent
  • Blagdon
  • Ullswater
  • Redmire Pool
  • Windermere
  • Kielder

Whether you are looking for a peaceful day out or a challenging fishing experience, there is a lake in the UK that will suit your needs. So pack your fishing gear and head out to one of these beautiful lakes for a day of fishing.

Fishing Spots: Rivers

When it comes to fly fishing in the UK, rivers are some of the most popular spots for anglers. There are many rivers in the UK that offer great fly fishing opportunities, and each one has its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the best rivers for fly fishing in the UK:

River Wharfe

The River Wharfe is a popular trout river located in Yorkshire. It is known for its clear water and abundance of brown trout. The river has a mix of fast and slow-moving water, which makes it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers. The best time to fish for trout in the River Wharfe is from April to September.

River Tees

The River Tees is another popular trout river located in the North East of England. It is known for its clear water and large population of brown trout. The river has a mix of fast and slow-moving water, which makes it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers. The best time to fish for trout in the River Tees is from April to September.

River Wye

The River Wye is a popular salmon and trout river located in Wales. It is known for its clear water and large population of salmon and brown trout. The river has a mix of fast and slow-moving water, which makes it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers. The best time to fish for salmon in the River Wye is from June to September, while the best time to fish for trout is from April to September.

River Tyne

The River Tyne is a popular salmon river located in North East England. It is known for its clear water and large population of salmon. The river has a mix of fast and slow-moving water, which makes it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers. The best time to fish for salmon in the River Tyne is from June to September.

Overall, these rivers offer some of the best fly fishing opportunities in the UK. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, you’re sure to find a river that suits your needs. Just make sure to check the fishing regulations and get the necessary permits before you head out.

Fishing Spots: Streams and Ponds

When it comes to fly fishing in the UK, there is no shortage of streams and ponds to choose from. Whether you are looking for a challenging catch or a peaceful day by the water, there is a fishing spot for everyone.

Streams

Streams are a popular choice among fly fishermen as they offer a challenging and exciting fishing experience. Here are a few streams to consider:

  • River Test: Located near Hampshire, the River Test is famous for its brown trout. It is known as the birthplace of dry fly fishing and offers a beautiful and peaceful setting for fishing.
  • River Itchen: Another popular stream in Hampshire, the River Itchen is a premier trout stream and offers a variety of fishing opportunities. It is home to both brown and rainbow trout.
  • River Wye: Located in the Peak District, the River Wye is a wild brown trout stream that offers a challenging and rewarding fishing experience. It is also home to wild rainbow trout and grayling.

Ponds

Ponds are a great option for those who prefer a more peaceful and relaxed fishing experience. Here are a few ponds to consider:

  • Blagdon Lake: Located in the Mendip Hills, Blagdon Lake is known as the “home of still water trout fly fishing.” It offers a variety of fishing opportunities and is home to both brown and rainbow trout.
  • River Eden: One of the most popular river fly fishing spots in the Lake District, the River Eden is known for its trout and grayling. It offers dozens of beautiful and peaceful beats to hone your river fly fishing technique.
  • Llyn Clywedog: Located in Wales, Llyn Clywedog is a large reservoir that offers a variety of fishing opportunities. It is home to both brown and rainbow trout, as well as other species such as pike and perch.

No matter what your fishing preferences are, there is a stream or pond in the UK that is perfect for you. Just make sure to do your research and follow all local fishing regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience.

The Importance of Conservation in Fly Fishing

As an angler, you have a responsibility to protect the environment in which you fish. Conservation efforts are crucial to maintaining healthy fish populations and preserving the natural beauty of our lakes and rivers for future generations to enjoy.

One of the most important conservation practices in fly fishing is catch and release. This involves releasing the fish back into the water after catching them, rather than keeping them as a trophy or for food. Catch and release helps to maintain healthy fish populations by allowing them to reproduce and grow, ensuring that there will be plenty of fish for future generations of anglers to enjoy.

In addition to catch and release, there are other conservation practices that you can follow when fly fishing. These include:

  • Using barbless hooks, which are less likely to injure the fish and make it easier to release them back into the water.
  • Avoiding fishing in areas where fish are spawning, as this can disrupt their breeding and negatively impact their populations.
  • Properly disposing of any fishing line or other equipment that you may have used, as these can be harmful to wildlife if left in the water or on the shore.
  • Being mindful of your impact on the environment, and taking steps to reduce it. This can include things like using environmentally-friendly products, minimizing your use of motorized boats, and practicing Leave No Trace principles when camping or hiking near the water.

By following these conservation practices, you can help to protect the environment and ensure that our lakes and rivers remain healthy and vibrant for years to come. Remember, as an angler, you have a responsibility to be a steward of the environment and to do your part to preserve it for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the best trout fishing locations in the UK?

The UK is home to some of the best trout fishing locations in the world. The River Test and the River Itchen, both located in Hampshire, are renowned for their brown trout fishing. Other notable locations include the River Wye, the River Usk, and the Lake District.

What are the regulations around taking fish from UK rivers?

It is important to be aware of the regulations around taking fish from UK rivers. In general, it is illegal to take fish from rivers without a valid rod license. Additionally, there are specific regulations around the size and number of fish that can be taken. It is important to check the regulations for the specific river you plan to fish in before you begin.

When is the fly fishing season for UK rivers?

The fly fishing season for UK rivers varies depending on the location. In general, the season runs from early April to late September. However, some rivers may have different opening and closing dates, so it is important to check the specific regulations for the river you plan to fish in.

What are some of the top fly fishing lakes in the UK?

The UK is home to many excellent fly fishing lakes. Some of the top locations include Rutland Water in the East Midlands, Grafham Water in Cambridgeshire, and Chew Valley Lake in Somerset.

Are there any restrictions on fly fishing in certain UK rivers?

Yes, there may be restrictions on fly fishing in certain UK rivers. Some rivers may have closed seasons or specific regulations around the use of certain types of flies or fishing techniques. It is important to check the specific regulations for the river you plan to fish in before you begin.

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