We extend a warm welcome to all trout anglers, whether beginner or expert. The range of fishing we offer ensures excellent sport for all anglers. Our still water rainbow and brown trout fisheries are among the best in the West, with natural, free wilderness sites offering an inexpensive, but maybe challenging, day out in beautiful countryside.
We are particularly keen to encourage young people and newcomers to take up the sport, and have a number of initiative and events planned during the season, including training courses and taster days. The Trust will be running a series of introduction days in conjunction with the Environment Agency and local qualified instructors - details are posted on the diary page. Under 12's may fish for free when sharing their parents' bag limit.
Boats, providing a loch-style alternative to bank angling are available at major sites on most days. These may be prebooked. You are advised to call in advance to check availability
Most of the major stocked fisheries provide facilities for disabled anglers. Wheelyboats are available which provide access to the water for less able anglers and wheelchair users. These boats must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
A number of the fisheries have local clubs associated with the waters. These are a great way to meet fellow anglers, as well as participating in competitions and social events. We organise three competitions during the season - one at each of the major sites: Wimbleball - boat, Kennick - bank, and Siblyback - team bank). Details and results are posted on the diary and news pages.
Please remember:
• permit fees cover the car parking charges made at some sites
• dogs may only accompany anglers with prior permission at some sites
• please take all your litter home and keep the countryside clean
• in the interests of hygiene and public safety we do not allow people or dogs to swim in the lakes
• catch returns must be completed on sites where available
• boat anglers MUST wear approved buoyancy aids (available on site) and follow the boat angling code of conduct
• anglers on all our waters must have a valid Environmnt Agency rod licence (available from post offices or via the Environment Agency on 08708 506506 or online:www.environment-agency.gov.uk). The only exception may be when attending a bona fide course or a coaching session with a qualified coach - please check beforehand.
We want you to enjoy your fishing, so if you have any suggestions for improvements, please contact Chris Hall on 01647 277587 or e-mail chall@swlakestrust.org.uk.
The South West Lakes Trust is a member of The Angling Trust and the Stillwater Trout Fisheries Association.