Bristol is a city in the southwest of England, known for its maritime history, vibrant culture, and beautiful countryside. The area is also home to some of the best fly fishing spots in the country, with a variety of lakes and rivers to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in Bristol.
One of the most popular destinations for fly fishing in Bristol is Chew Valley Lake. This beautiful reservoir is located in the heart of the Chew Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque villages. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and pike, making it a great place to test your skills and try out different techniques. With plenty of access points and boat rentals available, Chew Valley Lake is a must-visit for any fly fishing enthusiast.
Another great option for fly fishing in Bristol is the River Avon. This iconic river runs through the heart of the city, offering a unique urban fishing experience. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub, and there are plenty of spots to explore along its banks. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day on the water or a chance to catch some big fish, the River Avon is a great choice.
Fly Fishing in Bristol
We are fortunate to have access to some of the best fly fishing in the UK right here in Bristol. Whether you prefer still waters or flowing rivers, there are plenty of options to suit your preferences.
Lakes
Bristol is home to several lakes that are perfect for fly fishing. Chew Valley Lake is one of the most popular destinations, known for its scenic beauty and top-quality fly-fishing. It is a large reservoir that offers a variety of fishing opportunities, including trout, pike, and perch. Day permits and season permits are available for purchase through the Bristol Water Fisheries online booking portal.
Blagdon Lake is another popular option, located at the foot of the Mendip Hills. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. It is stocked with high-quality trout and also offers the opportunity to catch perch, roach, and pike. Day permits and season permits are available for purchase through the Bristol Water Fisheries online booking portal.
Rivers
Bristol is also home to several rivers that offer excellent fly fishing opportunities. The River Avon is one of the most popular, known for its brown trout and grayling. It is a challenging river to fish, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The River Frome is another popular option, known for its large brown trout and salmon. Both rivers offer a variety of fishing opportunities, including dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing.
Tuition and Guides
If you are new to fly fishing or want to improve your skills, Bristol Water Fisheries offers tuition and local guides. The tuition is designed to encourage everyone to have a go at fly fishing and get outdoors. The local guides are experienced anglers who can provide valuable advice and tips on the best fishing spots and techniques. You can find more information about tuition and guides on the Bristol Water Fisheries website.
In conclusion, Bristol offers a wide range of fly fishing opportunities, from still waters to flowing rivers. With the right equipment and techniques, you can enjoy some of the best fishing in the UK right here in Bristol.
Lakes for Fly Fishing in Bristol
Bristol is home to some of the best fly fishing lakes in the UK. With stunning scenery and clear waters, these lakes offer a great opportunity for fly fishing enthusiasts to catch some of the best trout in the region. Here are some of the top lakes for fly fishing in Bristol:
Chew Valley Lake
Chew Valley Lake is one of the most popular fly fishing lakes in Bristol. Located in the beautiful Chew Valley, this lake offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both beginners and experts. With crystal clear water, this lake is home to some of the largest trout in the region. The lake is stocked regularly with brown and rainbow trout, making it a great place to catch your next big fish.
Blagdon Lake
Blagdon Lake is another great option for fly fishing enthusiasts in Bristol. This lake is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at the foot of the Mendip Hills. The lake is stocked with brown and rainbow trout, and offers a range of fishing opportunities for both beginners and experts. With clear water and stunning scenery, Blagdon Lake is a must-visit for any fly fishing enthusiast.
Barrow Tanks
Barrow Tanks is a series of four interconnected lakes located just outside of Bristol. These lakes are stocked with brown and rainbow trout, and offer a range of fishing opportunities for both beginners and experts. With clear water and plenty of fish, Barrow Tanks is a great place to spend a day fly fishing.
Litton Lakes
Litton Lakes is a set of three lakes located in the beautiful Chew Valley. These lakes are stocked with brown and rainbow trout, and offer a range of fishing opportunities for both beginners and experts. With clear water and stunning scenery, Litton Lakes is a must-visit for any fly fishing enthusiast in Bristol.
Overall, Bristol is home to some of the best fly fishing lakes in the UK. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there is a lake in Bristol that is perfect for you. So grab your fishing gear and head out to one of these lakes for a day of fly fishing fun!
Rivers for Fly Fishing in Bristol
If you are looking for a great fly fishing experience in Bristol, you should definitely consider the rivers in the area. Bristol has several rivers that are perfect for fly fishing, including the River Avon and the River Frome.
River Avon
The River Avon is a popular spot for fly fishing in Bristol. This river is known for its brown trout, which are abundant in the area. The river also has a good population of grayling, which can be caught year-round. The best time to fish for brown trout is from March to September.
The River Avon has several sections that are suitable for fly fishing. The upper section, which runs from Malmesbury to Bradford on Avon, is a great spot for brown trout. The middle section, which runs from Bradford on Avon to Bath, is known for its grayling. The lower section, which runs from Bath to Bristol, is a good spot for sea trout.
River Frome
The River Frome is another great river for fly fishing in Bristol. This river is known for its wild brown trout, which can be caught throughout the season. The river also has a good population of grayling, which can be caught from October to March.
The upper section of the River Frome, which runs from its source in the Cotswolds to the village of Frampton, is a great spot for brown trout. The middle section, which runs from Frampton to the town of Eastington, is known for its grayling. The lower section, which runs from Eastington to the River Severn, is a good spot for sea trout.
Overall, the rivers in Bristol offer a great fly fishing experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, you are sure to find a spot that suits your needs. Just make sure to get the necessary permits and follow the rules and regulations set by the local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good fly fishing spots in Bristol for lakes and rivers?
Bristol offers several excellent fly fishing spots for both lakes and rivers. Chew Valley Lake is a popular destination, known for its scenic beauty and top-quality fly-fishing. Blagdon Lake is another great spot, with its clear waters and abundance of trout. The River Frome is also worth checking out, particularly for those interested in urban fly-fishing.
What is the fishing season like for Blagdon Lake?
The fishing season at Blagdon Lake runs from March 15th to October 31st. During this time, anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and pike.
Are there any fishing reports available for Chew Valley Lake?
Yes, Bristol Water Fisheries provides regular fishing reports for Chew Valley Lake on their website. These reports offer valuable information on current fishing conditions, including water temperature, water clarity, and recent catches.
Can you recommend a fishing lodge near Blagdon Lake?
Yes, there are several fishing lodges near Blagdon Lake that offer comfortable accommodation and excellent fishing opportunities. Some popular options include the Blagdon Fishing Lodge and the Lake View Lodge.
Where can I find a map of fishing spots in Blagdon Lake?
Bristol Water Fisheries provides a detailed map of fishing spots in Blagdon Lake on their website. This map highlights the best areas for fishing, as well as the locations of boat launches and other amenities.
Are there any fly fishing lessons available in Bristol?
Yes, there are several fly fishing schools and instructors in Bristol that offer lessons for anglers of all skill levels. Bristol Water Fisheries offers fly fishing tuition, as do local clubs like the Bristol Reservoirs Fly Fishers Association. Private instructors are also available for those looking for one-on-one instruction.