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.
We are working hard to encourage young people and newcomers to take up the sport. Under 12s may fish for free when sharing their parents’ bag limit. Throughout the season, we host open days and events where we offer free fly fishing tuition for all.
Boats are available at most of our waters which provide an alternative to bank angling. These may be pre-booked and we advise calling in advance to check availability at each fishery.
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.
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 four competitions during the season with two singles, one pairs and one team of four competition. More details of each of these are available on our competitions page.
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 is the managing charity of SW Lakes Fishing. The charity is a member of The Angling Trust. In 2014, the South West Lakes fisheries hosted the Commonwealth Fly Fishing Championships; Scotland took gold and England won silver.
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.
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The jewel in the crown of fishing in the South West, this stunning 50 acre Dartmoor water offers fantastic views, a peaceful atmosphere and great fishing. Read more
Siblyback Lake is situated on Bodmin Moor, offering the striking backdrop of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). An especially atmospheric location, Siblyback embodies different moods as the seasons change: from wild and windy winters to flat calms in the summer, the lake is a special spot in Cornwall. Read more
Stithians Lake is a majestic water; as the largest inland water in West Cornwall, the reservoir is both full of activity and a tranquil retreat, boasting some inspiring views. Read more
On the edge of Dartmoor National Park, the trout fishery at Burrator is one of the most tranquil and picturesque natural angling venues in the South West. Read more
Colliford Lake is Cornwall’s largest inland water, offering an ideal spot to enjoy the peace and serenity of Bodmin Moor’s rugged countryside landscape – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Enjoy breathtaking views of this beautiful area of moorland, which is also the location of a nature reserve and an important site for birdlife. Read more
Set in the rolling Devon hills on the edge of Dartmoor, Roadford offers more than 700 acres of brown trout fishing to explore by boat or bank. Read more
Fernworthy Reservoir is a beautiful location comprising meadows, woodlands and moorland. Set on one of the highest points of Dartmoor, scenic lakeside views are complemented by a rich cultural heritage – including ancient stone cairns, Bronze Age hut circles and a submerged clapper bridge. Read more
Wistlandpound Reservoir is located on the edge of Exmoor National Park, close to Barnstaple. Surrounded by picturesque rolling hills and conifer plantations, the reservoir is a favourite for those seeking a natural and wild environment. Read more
This reservoir sits in open moorland on South Dartmoor. Toilet facilities suitable for disabled people are situated in the car park. The fishery provides free wilderness brown trout fishing for wild fish from the bank and is available to holders of a valid Environment Agency Rod Licence (non-migratory). Read more
Crowdy Reservoir is situated within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) on the northern tip of Bodmin Moor. This is a quiet and peaceful spot, boasting lovely moorland views and a soundtrack of birdsong. Read more
Meldon Reservoir is situated on Dartmoor National Park, with striking views over the Okement Valley, open moorland and dramatic tors. The countryside surrounding the reservoir combines industrial heritage with nature, and offers an experience of scenic tranquillity. Read more
Set midway between the Solent and Poole Harbour, Christchurch Harbour is a scenic natural harbour and a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Read more