Trout Fishing

We extend a warm welcome to all trout anglers. The range of fishing we offer ensures excellent sport for all abilities. Our still water fisheries are among the best in the west and vary in size from around 50 to over 900 acres!

Our fisheries are picturesque and atmospheric lakes, including countless secluded bays, weedy shores and tree line margins to explore. We boast rainbows, browns and a large number of blues of the highest quality. Traditional fly fishing is the rule at our stocked fisheries, although other methods can be used at our free wilderness trout waters. 

Young People and Newcomers

We are working hard to encourage young people and newcomers to take up the sport. Under 18 fish for free with a paying adult and part of their bag limit. Throughout the season, we host open days and events where we offer free fly fishing tuition for all.

Boat Fishing

Boats are available at most of our waters which provide an alternative to bank angling. These must be pre-booked, either by calling 01566 771930 (8.30am - 5.00pm 7 days a week) or online by scrolling to the bottom of your chosen lake page.

You will need to sign a disclaimer before you can take a boat out. Once a year you will need to complete a boat induction – please watch the induction video here. 

Access for All

Most of the waters benefit from facilities designed for disabled or wheelchair anglers, either by platforms or Wheelyboats. These boats must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.

Clubs

A number of the fisheries have associated local clubs. These are a great way to meet fellow anglers, as well as participating in competitions and social events. We run several competitions during the season - more details of each of these are available on our competitions page.

Environment Agency Rod Licence

Anglers on all our waters must have a valid Environment Agency rod licence which are available from post offices or via the Environment Agency. The only exception may be when attending a bona fide course or a coaching session with a qualified coach – please check beforehand.

South West Lakes Trust

South West Lakes Trust is the managing charity of SW Lakes Trust Fishing. The charity is a member of The Angling Trust. In 2014, the South West Lakes Trust fisheries hosted the Commonwealth Fly Fishing Championships; Scotland took gold and England won silver. 

Reporting an Incident:

South West Lakes Trust manages a portfolio of nearly 50 lakes and other natural resources so it is not always possible for our wardens to be on the scene when issues occur. The very remote and rural nature of our estate, the thing that makes them so special, also means that modern mobile communications don’t always cover the areas we would like them to. This makes getting an immediate response to ongoing incidents very challenging.

Please use this form to report any incidents of poaching, illegal fishing or any other form of antisocial behaviour to the management team so that we are able to take appropriate action.

Complete Form

Peninsula Classic Results 2022

On Sunday 26th June, 23 anglers gathered for the Peninsula Classic bank competition on what turned out to be another enjoyable and successful day.  

The weather was promising in the morning but varied as the day went on with windy conditions making things tricky at times. The odd rain shower freshened up the water and there was plenty of activity observed on both the surface and sub-surface.  

Over the course of the day, 78 fish were caught with a rod average of 3.4. Coch-Y-Bonddu, Black and peacock, Diawl Bachs, Damsels, Hares Ears and Cats Whiskers used on floating and intermediate lines were popular techniques. Each of the fishing zones yielded a good number of fish: Zone A- 17, B- 17, C- 19, D- 25. 

The day ended with a BBQ (thanks Mark!) and a chance to chat and relax. We would also like to say a big thank you to Fly Fishing Tackle Crediton for being sponsors of the event and their generous contribution to the prizes. They are local stockists of a wide variety of fishing tackle and equipment (as well as friendly advice!) so it is well worth a visit. 

Results of the Competition: 

1st Prize: Darren Penfold- 8 fish (bag weight of 14 lbs 11 oz) winning a Kennick Season Permit worth £505. 

2nd Prize: Andrew Gooding- 8 fish (bag weight of 13 lbs 10 oz) winning a £100 voucher and Cortland Fo-Tech Fly-Line. 

3rd Prize: Mike Western – 8 fish (bag weight of 13 lbs) winning a £50 voucher and Cortland Fo-Tech Fly-Line. 

Heaviest Fish: Chris Bolt with a 2 lbs 10z fish, winning a £25 voucher and Cortland Fo-Tech Fly-Line. 

 

Thank you to everyone for a great day. 

 

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