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Home » UK Fly Fishing Lakes & Rivers: The Best Spots for Anglers » Fly Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Suffolk: A Guide to the Best Spots

Fly Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Suffolk: A Guide to the Best Spots

Fly fishing in Suffolk offers a unique experience for anglers of all levels. With a range of rivers and lakes, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including trout and pike. Suffolk is known for its picturesque countryside and tranquil waterways, making it the perfect destination for a fishing trip.

One of the most popular fly fishing spots in Suffolk is the Suffolk Fly Fishing Club Trout Lake. This lake offers a beautiful setting, with clear water and plenty of fish. The club provides a range of amenities, including a lodge and signing-in shed, to ensure that anglers have everything they need for a successful day of fishing. Additionally, the Norfolk & Suffolk Flyfishers’ Society has been encouraging fly fishing in the region since 1974. Their fishery, situated in East Tuddenham, Norfolk, welcomes experienced and inexperienced anglers every day of the year from dusk till dusk.

For those who prefer a more natural setting, South Elmham Lakes offers fly fishing in a wildflower meadow with mature oak trees and views over open farmland. The lakes are home to abundant wildlife and teem with aquatic life. While most of the trout caught here are “plate size,” there have been some impressive specimens caught in the past. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there is something for everyone in Suffolk’s lakes and rivers.

Fly Fishing in Suffolk’s Lakes

Suffolk is home to some of the best fly fishing lakes in the UK. Here are two of our favourite spots:

Alton Water

Alton Water is a man-made reservoir located in the heart of Suffolk. It is a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts due to its abundance of fish and picturesque location. The lake is home to a variety of species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and pike.

The water is clear and well-oxygenated, making it the perfect habitat for trout. The lake is stocked regularly with fish, so there is always a good chance of catching something. The fishing is catch and release only, so be sure to bring your camera to capture any catches.

Hawstead Fishing Lakes

Hawstead Fishing Lakes is a family-run business located in the village of Hawstead, just outside Bury St Edmunds. The lakes are set in tranquil surroundings and are well stocked with a variety of fish, including carp, tench, and bream.

The lakes are suitable for all levels of fly fishing experience, from beginners to experts. The owners are friendly and knowledgeable, and are always on hand to offer advice and guidance.

There are three lakes to choose from, each with its own unique character. The lakes are well maintained and offer a peaceful and relaxing environment for fishing.

Overall, Suffolk is a great destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there is something for everyone. With its abundance of lakes and rivers, clear waters, and well-stocked fish, Suffolk is the perfect place to cast a line and enjoy the great outdoors.

Fly Fishing in Suffolk’s Rivers

When it comes to fly fishing in Suffolk, rivers are often overlooked in favour of the county’s numerous lakes. However, there are several rivers in Suffolk that offer excellent fly fishing opportunities. In this section, we will cover two of the best rivers for fly fishing in Suffolk: the River Stour and the River Waveney.

River Stour

The River Stour is a 47-mile-long river that flows through Suffolk and Essex. It is a chalk stream that is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub. The river is known for its clear water, making it an excellent location for sight fishing.

One of the best places to fish on the River Stour is the stretch that runs through the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This area is known for its stunning scenery and is a popular destination for anglers. The river is easily accessible in this area, with several car parks and footpaths along its banks.

When fishing the River Stour, it is important to use light tackle and small flies. The river is relatively shallow, and the fish can be quite skittish, so stealth is key. Dry flies, nymphs, and small streamers are all effective on the River Stour.

River Waveney

The River Waveney is a 52-mile-long river that flows through Suffolk and Norfolk. It is a slow-moving river that is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and pike. The river is known for its deep pools and slow runs, making it an excellent location for fishing with streamers.

One of the best places to fish on the River Waveney is the stretch that runs through the Waveney Valley. This area is known for its beautiful scenery and is a popular destination for anglers. The river is easily accessible in this area, with several car parks and footpaths along its banks.

When fishing the River Waveney, it is important to use heavier tackle and larger flies. The river is relatively deep, and the fish can be quite large, so you will need to use streamers or other large flies to entice them. It is also important to be aware of the river’s flow, as it can be quite strong in some areas.

Overall, the River Stour and the River Waveney are both excellent locations for fly fishing in Suffolk. Whether you prefer sight fishing or fishing with streamers, these rivers offer a variety of fishing opportunities. With their beautiful scenery and abundant fish populations, they are definitely worth a visit for any fly fishing enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find day ticket trout fishing in Suffolk or nearby areas?

There are several fly fishing lakes and rivers in Suffolk that offer day ticket trout fishing. The Suffolk Fly Fishing Club Trout Lake is a popular choice for trout fishing enthusiasts. The Norfolk and Suffolk Flyfishers Society also has two lakes that offer day ticket trout fishing. Additionally, there are several rivers in East Anglia that offer day ticket trout fishing, including the River Waveney and the River Lark.

What are the best rivers for fly fishing in East Anglia?

East Anglia is home to several great rivers for fly fishing, including the River Wensum, the River Stour, and the River Bure. These rivers are known for their diverse fish populations, including brown trout, grayling, pike, and roach. Each river has its own unique features and challenges, so it’s worth doing some research before heading out.

What are the most common fish species found in the River Stour in Suffolk?

The River Stour in Suffolk is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, chub, dace, and roach. Anglers can also find pike and perch in some areas of the river. It’s important to note that there are some restrictions on fishing in the River Stour, so be sure to check local regulations before heading out.

Are there any restrictions on fly fishing in the Au Sable River?

The Au Sable River in Michigan is a popular destination for fly fishing, but there are some restrictions on fishing in certain areas. For example, the river has several designated “no kill” zones where anglers are required to release all fish caught. Additionally, there are restrictions on the types of lures and flies that can be used in some areas of the river. It’s important to check local regulations before planning a fishing trip to the Au Sable River.