Fly fishing in Rutland is a popular activity for both locals and visitors alike. The county is home to several lakes and rivers that offer excellent opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts to test their skills and catch some trout. Rutland Water, in particular, is well-known for its trout fishing and attracts anglers from all over the country and abroad.
Rutland Water is a man-made reservoir that covers an area of 3,500 acres and has a shoreline of 25 miles. It is the largest reservoir in England by surface area and is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and pike. The reservoir is surrounded by beautiful countryside and offers stunning views, making it an ideal location for a day out fly fishing. Other lakes in Rutland that are popular with fly fishers include Eyebrook Reservoir and Grafham Water. Both of these lakes offer excellent trout fishing opportunities and are well worth a visit.
In addition to the lakes, Rutland is also home to several rivers that offer great fly fishing opportunities. The River Gwash, for example, is a small river that runs through the county and is home to brown trout and grayling. The river is relatively shallow and narrow, making it an ideal location for fly fishing. Other rivers in Rutland that are popular with fly fishers include the River Welland and the River Nene. Overall, Rutland is a great destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of lakes and rivers that cater to all levels of experience.
Rutland Water: The Largest Artificial Lake
Rutland Water is the largest artificial lake in the UK, covering 3,100 acres of water and surrounded by 25 miles of shoreline. The lake was created in the 1970s by damming the River Gwash and the River Welland, and it is now one of the most popular destinations for fly fishing in the country.
The lake is home to a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and pike. It is renowned for its trout fishing, which is all done with fly fishing techniques. The lake is stocked regularly with fish from the Rutland Fisheries, and there are plenty of opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to catch a fish.
There are three main areas for fly fishing on Rutland Water: North Lake, South Arm, and the Peninsula. North Lake is the largest and deepest part of the lake, with depths of up to 100 feet. It is home to some of the biggest fish in the lake, including pike that can weigh up to 40 pounds. South Arm is a shallower area that is perfect for beginners, while the Peninsula is a secluded area that is ideal for those who want to fish in peace and quiet.
In addition to fly fishing, Rutland Water also offers predator fishing for pike and zander. This is done using a variety of techniques, including spinning and dead baiting. The lake is also a popular destination for other water sports, such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
Overall, Rutland Water is a fantastic destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. With its beautiful scenery, diverse range of fish, and excellent facilities, it is easy to see why it is one of the most popular lakes for fly fishing in the UK.
Rutland Water Fly Fishing
At Rutland Water, we offer some of the best fly fishing opportunities in the UK. Our lake is known for its stunning scenery and clear waters, making it the ideal location for fly fishing enthusiasts. We welcome clients from all over the country and abroad, and we’re confident that you’ll have a great time fishing with us.
Best Spots
Rutland Water is home to over 100 fishing spots, making it one of the best fly fishing locations in the UK. Some of the best spots for fly fishing include the following:
| Spot | Description |
|---|---|
| Normanton Church | A popular spot for fly fishing, located near the Normanton Church Museum. |
| Old Hall Bay | A secluded spot with plenty of fish, located near the Old Hall. |
| Fantasy Island | A deep spot with plenty of fish, located near the Fantasy Island theme park. |
Species to Catch
Rutland Water is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and pike. Our lake is predominately a fly fishing venue, and trout can only be targeted with a fly. However, we do open up to predator fishing with lures for pike, perch, and the plentiful zander over the autumn and winter months. All trout fishing is with fly only at Rutland Water.
We offer fly fishing lessons for beginners, so even if you’ve never fished before, we can help you get started. Our expert guides will show you the best techniques for catching fish and help you choose the right equipment for your needs.
Overall, Rutland Water is one of the best places for fly fishing in the UK. With its stunning scenery, clear waters, and variety of fish species, it’s no wonder that so many people come to fish with us. We look forward to seeing you on the water soon.
Rivers in Rutland for Fly Fishing
If you’re looking for a fly fishing destination in Rutland, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several rivers in the area that offer excellent fishing opportunities. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at two of the most popular rivers for fly fishing in Rutland: the River Chater and the River Gwash.
River Chater
The River Chater is a small river that is located in the east of Rutland. It is a tributary of the River Welland, and it is known for its clear water and abundance of wild brown trout. The river is also home to grayling, chub, and dace.
One of the best things about fly fishing on the River Chater is that it is relatively quiet, even during the peak fishing season. This makes it an excellent choice for anglers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet on the water.
River Gwash
The River Gwash is another popular river for fly fishing in Rutland. It is located in the south of the county, and it flows through a mix of agricultural land and woodland. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub.
One of the best things about fly fishing on the River Gwash is that it is a very accessible river. There are plenty of public access points along the river, and there are also several fishing clubs that offer day tickets for visitors.
Overall, both the River Chater and the River Gwash offer excellent fly fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’re sure to have a great time on the water in Rutland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the fishing prices at Rutland Water?
Our fishing prices at Rutland Water vary depending on the season and the type of fishing you want to do. For example, a full day of bank fishing during peak season costs £31 for adults and £16 for juniors. Boat fishing starts at £43 for a full day. You can find more information about our prices on the official website of Anglian Water Parks.
What is the best spot for fly fishing in Rutland?
There are many great spots for fly fishing in Rutland, and the best one for you will depend on your preferences and experience. However, some of the most popular spots include the Normanton bank, the South Arm, and the Old Hall Bay. You can also hire a fishing guide to take you to the best spots and give you tips on how to catch more fish.
Where is the fishing lodge located at Rutland Water?
Our fishing lodge is located on the Normanton bank, near the main car park. It is a modern and comfortable building with a restaurant, a bar, and a tackle shop. You can also hire fishing equipment and boats from the lodge, and book fishing lessons or guided trips.
What is the fishing shop like at Rutland Water?
Our fishing shop at Rutland Water is well-stocked with all the gear and accessories you need for fly fishing, including rods, reels, lines, flies, waders, and clothing. We also sell fishing permits, maps, and books, and our staff are knowledgeable and friendly. If you need any advice or assistance, just ask us!
Are there any carp in Rutland Water?
No, there are no carp in Rutland Water, as it is a trout fishery. However, there are plenty of other fish species you can catch, including brown trout, rainbow trout, pike, perch, and roach. We also have a catch-and-release policy for our trout, to ensure their sustainable management and conservation.
When are the fishing competitions held at Rutland Water?
We hold several fishing competitions at Rutland Water throughout the year, including bank and boat matches, fly fishing and lure fishing contests, and team and individual events. The dates and details of these competitions are announced on our website and social media channels, and you can also register online or at the fishing lodge.