Wiltshire Streams – Chalkstream Fly Fishing

Chalkstream fly fishing on the Wiltshire Streams may not be as well known as their Hampshire neighbours but they are just as good. With Salisbury marking the coming together of five chalkstream rivers, there is a rich vein of fly fishing opportunity in Wiltshire. Each river, including the Avon and Nadder, offering a different challenge to the discerning fly fisherman.

Good fly hatches and wild trout

The Wiltshire streams are made up of the Ebble, Nadder and Wylye rivers to the west of Salisbury and the Bourne to the east. They all meet the River Avon which flows north to south through the cathedral city. Crystal clear waters flow on all sides of the city offer endless chalkstream fly fishing opportunities for wild brown trout and grayling.

With relatively little stocking throughout these valleys the native brown trout population has been allowed to thrive. Each year large fish can be found feeding during the many consistent insect hatches throughout the season. Due to the comparatively early opening to the season those willing to brave the conditions can be rewarded with good large dark olive and grannom hatches which are often missed on the neighbouring rivers.

The mayfly hatches in the area are famed for their prolonged appearance. It often starts at roughly the same time as the River Test but can continue well into June, with some hatches even witnessed in late September.

During the height of summer the Wiltshire streams can be a delightful place to fish. The long evenings see good hatches of olives and sedges that can have brown trout rising well into the darkness.

EASY REACH OF LONDON

Although slightly further than the River Test, chalkstream fly fishing on the Wiltshire streams 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 Wiltshire streams 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.