Everyone has a favourite spot – the one place that offers the serenity or action they go fishing for. We’ve reeled in the list of the most popular fishing spots in the UK and narrowed it down to the top five. Have a favourite that’s not listed here? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page or Tweet us telling us about it (include a picture if you have one!).
1. Sutherland, Scotland
Yes, ArdMoor is based in Scotland so we’re a bit biased with this one. But Sutherland offers a remote serenity that is unrivalled. The west and north coasts offer a number of lochs, where runs can be prolific. Equally as good, the east coast rivers are longer and provide more consistent runs that the spate rivers in the west.
Many of the rivers in this area are famous for their sea trout and provide ample brown trout. So pitch a tent and catch a few trout, then retreat to the Rnichonich Hotel on Loch Inchard for a good night of sleep.
2. Hampshire, England – River Test
Perhaps the most famous fly fishing spot in the world, Hampshire encompasses the River Test. This pre-eminent chalkstream river is known for its clarity and high alkalinity. Running 39 miles from source to estuary, the River Test has been a topic of literary works for famous writers such as Skues, Halfod and Plunkett Green.
For everyone from beginners to experts, the River Test is the place to go for fly fishing. Guided days and fly fishing tuition days are available in this area from Go Fly Fishing UK.
3. Argyll and Bute, Scotland – Loch Awe
Plain and simple – Loch Awe is renowned for its trout fishing. As one of the largest lochs in Scotland, Loch Awe spans 26 miles long, up to one mile wide and drops to a depth of nearly 300ft. Popular with anglers, this loch is also famous for its enormous ferox trout.
Looking to break records? While most wild brown trout are pan-sized or less, the current and past four British records were reached at Loch Awe. Brian Rutland has held this title since 15th March 2002 with a wild brown trout weighing in at 31lb 12oz!
4. Luton, England – River Lea
If you don’t want to stray too far from London, the River Lea (or Lee) is for you. While many debate on the spelling, the fact is this river is one of the closest to London where you can catch wild trout. The River Lea hosts a number of fisheries including the Amwell Magna Fishery, the oldest fly fishing club in the UK, and was featured in the 2009 BBC series Rivers.
5. Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire, Wales – River Teifi
Holding the title as the longest river running wholly in Wales, the River Teifi spans 75 miles in length. The Teifi is a unique spot for Wales, offering quality sporting for all species of game fish – salmon, trout and sea trout (or sewin as they’re known in Wales). In the upper reaches, you might even find the occasional grayling.
No matter where you fish, make sure you make the most of it.