Oxfordshire is a beautiful county located in the South East of England, known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque villages. It is also home to some of the best fly fishing lakes and rivers in the country. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to cast your line and catch some fish in Oxfordshire.
One of the best places to go fly fishing in Oxfordshire is Salford Trout Lakes, located in the Cotswolds. These privately owned lakes are spring-fed and offer a total of 8 acres of water set in parkland. Day visitors are welcome, and there is no ongoing membership required. Another popular spot is Lockinge Fishery, which is managed by Mark Tickner and his wife. This fishery is part of the Lockinge Estate and consists of a series of nine lakes, all interconnected by a stream, fed by springs, rising from the nearby Berkshire chalk downland, and offers fly fishing for both brown and rainbow trout.
Overall, fly fishing in Oxfordshire is a fantastic way to spend a day or a weekend, surrounded by beautiful scenery and wildlife. With so many lakes and rivers to choose from, there is something for everyone, whether you are looking for a peaceful day out or a challenging fishing experience.
Overview of Oxfordshire’s Lakes
Oxfordshire is home to a wide variety of lakes and rivers that provide excellent opportunities for fly fishing. From small ponds to large reservoirs, the county has something to offer for anglers of all skill levels. Here are some of the most popular fly fishing lakes in Oxfordshire:
Farmoor Reservoir
Farmoor Reservoir is a large, man-made lake located just west of Oxford. It is a popular spot for fly fishing due to the large number of trout that can be found in the lake. The reservoir is stocked regularly with both rainbow and brown trout, and there are also some wild brown trout to be found. Fishing is permitted from both the bank and boats, which can be hired from the onsite fishing lodge.
Lechlade Trout Fishery
Lechlade Trout Fishery is a picturesque lake located in the Cotswolds. The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout, and there are also some wild brown trout to be found. Fishing is permitted from both the bank and boats, which can be hired from the onsite fishing lodge. The lake is known for its clear water, making it an excellent spot for sight fishing.
Westlake Fly Fishing
Westlake Fly Fishing is located in Lockinge Fishery, near Wantage. The fishery has nine interconnected lakes, which are stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout. Fishing is permitted from the bank and boats, which can be hired from the onsite fishing lodge. Westlake Fly Fishing also runs a fly fishing school, making it an excellent spot for beginners.
Chimney Meadows
Chimney Meadows is a small lake located in the Cotswolds. The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow trout, and there are also some wild brown trout to be found. Fishing is permitted from the bank only, and there is no onsite fishing lodge. However, the lake is known for its peaceful surroundings and excellent fishing opportunities.
These are just a few of the many fly fishing lakes in Oxfordshire. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, there is sure to be a lake that meets your needs.
Fly Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Oxfordshire
When it comes to fly fishing in Oxfordshire, there are several lakes and rivers that are worth exploring. In this section, we will highlight two of the most popular spots for fly fishing in the area.
Farmoor Reservoir
Farmoor Reservoir is a popular spot for fly fishing in Oxfordshire. This large reservoir is located just a few miles west of Oxford and covers an area of over 400 acres. The reservoir is stocked with a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and pike. There are also several other species of fish that can be caught at Farmoor Reservoir, including perch, roach, and bream.
One of the main advantages of fishing at Farmoor Reservoir is the size of the fish that can be caught. The reservoir is known for producing some of the largest trout in the area, with fish weighing in at over 10lbs not being uncommon. Another advantage is the accessibility of the reservoir. There are several car parks located around the reservoir, making it easy to access the water.
Blenheim Palace Lakes
Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. The palace is surrounded by several lakes that are perfect for fly fishing. The lakes are stocked with a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and carp. There are also several other species of fish that can be caught at Blenheim Palace, including perch and roach.
One of the main advantages of fishing at Blenheim Palace is the stunning scenery. The palace and its lakes are set in beautiful parkland, making it a great place to spend a day out in nature. Another advantage is the quality of the fish that can be caught. The lakes are well managed, and the fish are known for being particularly large and healthy.
Overall, Farmoor Reservoir and Blenheim Palace Lakes are two of the best spots for fly fishing in Oxfordshire. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, these lakes offer a great opportunity to catch some impressive fish in stunning surroundings.
Highlights of Oxfordshire’s Rivers
Oxfordshire boasts some of the most picturesque rivers in the UK, which are perfect for fly fishing enthusiasts. Here are some of our favourite rivers in Oxfordshire:
The River Thames
The River Thames is the most famous river in Oxfordshire, and it is renowned for its wide, slow sweeps. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including chub, barbel, roach, dace, and grayling. Fly fishing is popular on the Thames, and there are plenty of fishing spots along the riverbank. The best time to fish on the Thames is during the summer months, when the water is warm and the fish are more active.
The River Windrush
The River Windrush is a small river that runs through the Cotswolds and Oxfordshire. It is a popular destination for fly fishing, and it is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub. The river is known for its clear waters, which make it easy to spot fish. The best time to fish on the River Windrush is during the spring and summer months, when the water is warmer and the fish are more active.
The River Cherwell
The River Cherwell is a small river that runs through Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. It is a popular destination for fly fishing, and it is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub. The river is known for its fast-flowing waters, which make it a challenging place to fish. The best time to fish on the River Cherwell is during the summer months, when the water is warmer and the fish are more active.
The River Thame
The River Thame is a small river that runs through Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. It is a popular destination for fly fishing, and it is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub. The river is known for its clear waters, which make it easy to spot fish. The best time to fish on the River Thame is during the spring and summer months, when the water is warmer and the fish are more active.
Overall, Oxfordshire’s rivers are a fly fishing paradise, and there are plenty of fishing spots to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, there’s something for everyone in Oxfordshire’s rivers.
Fly Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Oxfordshire
When it comes to fly fishing in Oxfordshire, there are numerous options to choose from. In this section, we will discuss two of the most popular rivers for fly fishing in Oxfordshire: the River Thames and the River Cherwell.
River Thames
The River Thames is one of the most famous rivers in the world, and it is also a great place to go fly fishing. The river flows through Oxfordshire, and there are several stretches that are perfect for fly fishing. Some of the most popular stretches include:
- Lechlade to St. John’s Bridge
- St. John’s Bridge to Rushey Lock
- Rushey Lock to Eynsham
The River Thames is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, chub, and pike. There are also several fishing clubs that offer access to private stretches of the river.
River Cherwell
The River Cherwell is another popular river for fly fishing in Oxfordshire. The river flows through the city of Oxford and offers some excellent fishing opportunities. Some of the most popular stretches for fly fishing on the River Cherwell include:
- Marston to Magdalen Bridge
- Magdalen Bridge to University Parks
- University Parks to the Trout Inn
The River Cherwell is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub. There are also several fishing clubs that offer access to private stretches of the river.
In conclusion, the River Thames and the River Cherwell are two excellent options for fly fishing in Oxfordshire. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, these rivers offer plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species.
What are some of the best fly fishing lakes and rivers in Oxfordshire?
Oxfordshire is blessed with several excellent fly fishing lakes and rivers. The River Thames, River Windrush, River Cherwell, and River Evenlode are all popular spots for fly fishing. In terms of lakes, Salford Trout Lakes and Lockinge Fishery are highly recommended.
What are the regulations for trout fishing in Oxfordshire?
Trout fishing in Oxfordshire is regulated by the Environment Agency. Anglers need to have a valid fishing license, which can be purchased online or from a local post office. There are also rules around the size and number of trout that can be caught, as well as the use of certain types of bait and fishing equipment. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these regulations before heading out to fish.
Are there any free fishing spots in Oxfordshire?
Yes, there are several free fishing spots in Oxfordshire. The River Thames and River Windrush are both free to fish, and there are also some smaller streams and ponds that are open to the public. However, it’s worth noting that some of the more popular lakes and rivers may require a fee or membership to fish.
Which fly fishing clubs operate in Oxfordshire?
There are several fly fishing clubs that operate in Oxfordshire, including the Oxford Fly Fishing Society and the Oxfordshire Fly Fishers Club. These clubs offer a range of benefits, including access to private lakes and rivers, coaching and mentoring, and social events.
Can I fly fish on any river in Oxfordshire?
While there are many rivers in Oxfordshire that are suitable for fly fishing, it’s important to check the regulations and obtain any necessary permits before heading out. Some rivers may be closed to fishing during certain times of the year, or may require a specific type of permit or license.
When is the best time of year for fly fishing on UK rivers?
The best time of year for fly fishing on UK rivers depends on a variety of factors, including the weather, water temperature, and the type of fish you’re hoping to catch. Generally speaking, spring and autumn are considered the best times for fly fishing, as the water is cooler and the fish are more active. However, with the right techniques and equipment, it’s possible to catch fish all year round.