River Kennet – Chalkstream Fly Fishing

Chalkstream fly fishing on the River Kennet is easily accessible from London and offer terrific season long action. The Kennet catchment stretches from the upper reaches of the Winterbournes above Avebury (west of Marlborough in Wiltshire) to Reading in Berkshire where the River Kennet flows into the Thames. The Kennet is known for offering wonderful dry fly fishing for both trout and grayling.

Classic chalkstream dry fly fishing

The River Kennet catchment is defined by the chalk uplands of the Marlborough and Berkshire Downs to the north and the Hampshire Downs to the south. Much of the area falls within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Many small tributaries feed the River Kennet but only the Dun and Lambourn can be considered as genuine trout fisheries.

Like the River Test, we have to thank the water engineers of the eighteenth century who created over 80 miles of fishable water although it is only some 22 miles from Marlborough to Newbury by road. The river below Hungerford near Kintbury usually experiences massive hatches of mayfly to rival and surpass anything that can be seen on the Test or Avon systems.

With demand for chalkstream grayling fly fishing ever growing, we invite you to try one of the finest winter sight fishing rivers available. The River Kennet is perfectly suited for day rods and guided trips for those ready to brave the cold. The season is open 1st October to 31st December.

EASY REACH OF LONDON

Fly fishing on the River Kennet 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 River Kennet with other chalkstream fly 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.