Broadlands Estate, River Test – Chalkstream Fly Fishing

The Broadlands Estate is situated on the lower River Test, just downstream from the town of Romsey. It offers a wonderful variety of water on the on the wider lower part of the river. It has traditionally been a salmon and sea trout venue but also offers some of our favourite trout fishing on the whole river. It is a wonderful venue for chalkstream fly fishing day rods, guided trips and larger group days too all based from the famous nissen fishing hut.

Big River Chalkstream Fly Fishing

The River Test on the Broadlands Estate extends for some two and a half miles, it is divided into three trout beats and three salmon beats. The beats are all unique and offer fantastic variety of water, under the watchful eye of river keeper Jon Hall they are maintained perfectly to offer the best fishing possible. The river has great populations of wild brown trout and grayling along with stocked trout, the salmon beats have great holding pools and taking spots.

The trout fishing begins in early April on the estate when anglers can be faced with a big river, but the fish are strong and the hatches can be steady. As the weather warms up and the flows begin to drop back, each beat is left with lovely pools and long riffles some are broken up with islands. The estate also allows anglers to wade in parts to give better access to rising trout.

The salmon fishing season begins on the 17th January, and whilst many of the early season springers no longer make an appearance from April onward salmon enter the river. The fish like to sit in the deeper waters of Broadlands through the season, many of which spawn there in the winter. It can be possible to target these fish by sightfishing with nymphs.

For larger groups and corporate events it is possible to take the three continuous trout beats exclusively along with use of the nissen hut. This works best for groups of up to 10 anglers. These events are hosted by our excellent guide team and can be fully catered.

With demand for chalkstream grayling and pike fly fishing ever growing, broadlands is an excellent venue in the winter, with good number and some large specimens of both. The beats are perfectly suited for day rods, guided trips and group days for those ready to brave the cold. The season is only open 1st November to 28th February.

Easy Reach of London

Fly Fishing the River Test at the Broadlands Estate is in easy reach of London and many other main towns in the south of England. Whether you drive, fly or get the train it will not take long to reach the fishing.

For those looking for longer stays in the area, we can combine the Broadlands Estate with other fishing options in the area. There are numerous accommodation options suitable for all types of stay, from small B&Bs to full Country House Hotels.