As avid fly fishers ourselves, we know that Somerset is a prime location for fly fishing enthusiasts. With a multitude of lakes and rivers, there are plenty of opportunities to try your hand at catching a variety of fish species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Somerset has something to offer for everyone.
One of the most popular destinations for fly fishing in Somerset is the Wimbleball Reservoir near Dulverton. This vast water on Exmoor offers excellent fishing from both the bank and boat for hard fighting rainbow and brown trout. With plenty of areas to explore and stunning scenery surrounding you, it’s no wonder why Wimbleball Reservoir is a go-to spot for fly fishers.
Another great location for fly fishing in Somerset is the Burton Springs Fishery near Bridgewater. This mixed coarse and fly fishery consists of three lakes set in beautiful quiet countryside overlooked by the Quantock Hills. With crystal clear water and a variety of fish species including carp, trout, and more, Burton Springs Fishery is a must-visit destination for any fly fisher in Somerset.
Fly Fishing in Somerset
Somerset offers some of the best fly fishing locations in the UK. With a variety of lakes and rivers, there is something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros. In this section, we will explore some of the best fly fishing spots in Somerset.
Lakes
Burton Springs Fishery is a great place to start for those new to fly fishing. Set in beautiful countryside overlooking the Quantock Hills, this mixed coarse and fly fishery consists of three lakes. Carp, roach, rudd, and tench are just some of the species you can expect to catch here. Day tickets start at £9 for adults.
Wimbleball Reservoir is another popular fly fishing location in Somerset. This vast water on Exmoor offers excellent fishing from both bank and boat. With hard-fighting rainbow and brown trout, there are plenty of areas to explore, and you are always surrounded by stunning scenery.
Summerhayes Fisheries in Bridgwater is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed fishing experience. With five lakes to explore amongst 20 acres of Somerset countryside, you can take on the big carp, catch a full bag of silvers or teach the kids in a quiet spot here.
Rivers
If you prefer river fishing, then Somerset has plenty to offer. The River Tone is a popular location for fly fishing, with brown trout and grayling being the main species found here. The river is well-stocked, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch a big one.
The River Parrett is another great location for fly fishing. With brown trout and salmon being the main species found here, it is a popular spot for anglers of all levels. The river is well-maintained, and there are plenty of access points for fishing.
Finally, the River Exe is a must-visit location for any fly fisherman. With brown trout, sea trout, and salmon being the main species found here, it is one of the best rivers in the UK for fly fishing. The river is well-stocked, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch a big one.
Overall, Somerset is a fantastic location for fly fishing, with a variety of lakes and rivers to choose from. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, there is something for everyone here.
Somerset’s Lakes for Fly Fishing
When it comes to fly fishing in Somerset, there are several lakes that are worth exploring. Here are three of the best:
Chew Valley Lake
Chew Valley Lake is a large reservoir located in the Chew Valley, about 8 miles south of Bristol. It is known for its excellent trout fishing, with both rainbow and brown trout being present in good numbers. The lake is stocked regularly, and the fish are known for being hard-fighting and of good size.
There are several different areas of the lake that are popular with fly fishermen, including the North Shore, the Woodford Bank, and the Moreton Bank. The lake can be fished from the bank or from a boat, and there are several boat hire options available.
Blagdon Lake
Blagdon Lake is another popular fly fishing destination in Somerset. This 440-acre lake is located in the Mendip Hills and is stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout. The lake is known for its clear water and can be fished from the bank or from a boat.
There are several different areas of the lake that are popular with fly fishermen, including the North Shore, the South Shore, and the Dam Wall. There are also several fishing lodges located around the lake that offer accommodation for anglers.
Clatworthy Reservoir
Clatworthy Reservoir is a smaller lake located in the Brendon Hills, about 10 miles west of Taunton. The lake is stocked regularly with brown and rainbow trout, and there are also some wild brown trout present.
The lake can be fished from the bank or from a boat, and there are several boat hire options available. The lake is known for its clear water and can be a challenging but rewarding place to fish.
Overall, Somerset is home to some excellent lakes for fly fishing, and these three are definitely worth checking out. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, there is something for everyone on these beautiful lakes.
Somerset’s Rivers for Fly Fishing
If you’re looking for some of the best river fly fishing in the UK, then Somerset is the place to be. With a variety of rivers that are home to brown trout, grayling, salmon, and sea trout, there’s something for every angler.
River Exe
The River Exe is one of the most popular rivers for fly fishing in Somerset. It’s a freestone river that runs through the heart of Exmoor, and it’s home to a large population of wild brown trout. The river is also home to grayling, salmon, and sea trout, although these are not as abundant as the brown trout.
When fishing the River Exe, it’s important to note that the upper reaches of the river are more suitable for dry fly fishing, while the lower reaches are better for nymph fishing. The best time to fish the River Exe is from April to September, although fishing is possible year-round.
River Tone
The River Tone is another great river for fly fishing in Somerset. It’s a chalk stream that runs through the Blackdown Hills and the Somerset Levels, and it’s home to a large population of wild brown trout. The river is also home to grayling, although these are not as abundant as the brown trout.
When fishing the River Tone, it’s important to note that the upper reaches of the river are more suitable for dry fly fishing, while the lower reaches are better for nymph fishing. The best time to fish the River Tone is from April to September, although fishing is possible year-round.
River Parrett
The River Parrett is a large river that runs through the heart of Somerset. It’s a slow-moving river that’s home to a large population of brown trout, as well as grayling, salmon, and sea trout. The river is also home to a variety of coarse fish, including roach, chub, and bream.
When fishing the River Parrett, it’s important to note that the upper reaches of the river are more suitable for dry fly fishing, while the lower reaches are better for nymph fishing. The best time to fish the River Parrett is from April to September, although fishing is possible year-round.
Overall, Somerset’s rivers offer some of the best fly fishing in the UK. With a variety of rivers that are home to a range of species, there’s something for every angler. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, Somerset’s rivers are sure to provide you with an unforgettable fly fishing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best fly fishing spots in Somerset for catching trout?
Somerset has many great fly fishing spots for catching trout. The River Tone, River Brue, and River Parrett are all excellent options. Other great spots include the Chew Valley Lake, Blagdon Lake, and Thorney Lakes. These locations offer stunning scenery and a variety of trout species to catch.
What are the regulations for fly fishing on the rivers in Somerset?
The Environment Agency oversees the regulations for fly fishing on rivers in Somerset. You will need to obtain a rod license before fishing, and there may be additional restrictions on certain rivers. It is important to check the regulations before fishing to avoid any fines or penalties.
Which holiday parks in Somerset have the best fishing lakes for fly fishing?
There are many holiday parks in Somerset that offer great fishing lakes for fly fishing. Some of the best options include Northam Farm Holiday Park, Lakeside Holiday Park, and Diamond Farm Holiday Park. These parks offer well-stocked lakes and comfortable accommodations for a relaxing fishing trip.
Are there any guided fly fishing tours available in Somerset?
Yes, there are several guided fly fishing tours available in Somerset. These tours offer expert guidance and instruction, as well as access to some of the best fishing spots in the area. Some of the top providers include Neil Keep Fly Fishing, West Country Fly Fishing, and Somerset Fly Fishing.
What is the best time of year for fly fishing in Somerset?
The best time of year for fly fishing in Somerset depends on the species of fish you are targeting. Generally, the spring and fall are the best seasons for trout fishing, while the summer months are better for salmon and sea trout. However, there are opportunities to catch fish year-round in Somerset.
Can you recommend any fly fishing shops in Somerset for gear and supplies?
Yes, there are several great fly fishing shops in Somerset for gear and supplies. Some of the top options include Taunton Angling Centre, Exe Valley Fishery, and Shepton Mallet Angling Centre. These shops offer a wide selection of gear and knowledgeable staff to help you find what you need.