Polhampton, River Test – Chalkstream Fly Fishing

The Polhampton beat on the River Test is the uppermost beat available for day tickets on the river, situated just a few hundred yards away from the source of the Test. It is a relatively short beat that enjoys the delights of a pure chalkstream, crystal clear water, flowing ranunculus and a healthy population of wild brown trout. This bank fishing and wading stretch is perfect for single anglers looking for chalkstream fly fishing day rods and guided trips.

Small River Wild Chalkstream Fly Fishing

The River Test at Polhampton extends for 600 metres and offers the ultimate wild trout chalkstream experience. Being so close to the source of the river the river flows with almost perfect clarity and brimming with nutrients that feed a healthy ecosystem of rananuculus and invertebrates. The swift flows and clean white gravel are the perfect habitat for many of our insects including a plethora of olives and caddisfly. The lack of silt this far up means there are very few mayfly each season, but this certainly does not hamper the fishing.

The average size of trout may only be 1/2 to 1lbs, there are some large wily trout in excess of 2 lbs. They are as wild as they come and will test an angler’s skill and nerve. The crystal clear flows mean that an angler must contemplate their every step and cast if they are to succeed but that is the thrill of this section. For much of the season it is the evenings that provide the most interest to the angler as insects hatch in numbers and return to lay their eggs during these golden hours.

For Anglers to make the most out of the beat, a stealthy approach is high recommended. a mixture of fishing from the bank and wading is often best. Be prepared for cold water as being so close to the source the river temperature rarely fluctuates through the season. Fishing is limited to one day per week to keep pressure low on this unique stretch of upper Test.

Like much of the River Test, this beat also belongs in fly fishing history as the place in which Oliver Kite made his final cast.

Easy Reach of London

Fly Fishing the River Test at the Polhampton 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 Polhampton 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.