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

Kennick Reservoir

Kennick Reservoir, Exeter, Devon EX6 7NZ

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. The reservoir is restricted to anglers only due to the narrow banks and anglers’ backcasts, although nearby Tottiford and Trenchford reservoirs boast a network of beautiful countryside walks for the public to explore; car parks and picnic areas are available.

Kennick is regularly stocked with rainbow trout from 2lbs to 6lbs. There is a resident head of wild brown trout up to 8lbs (all brown trout must be released if caught).

Traditional fly fishing only; ‘catch and release' is permitted but barbless hooks must be used.

The local fishing club, Kennick Fly Fishers Association, organises competitions, beginners’ days and social events based at the fishery.

Boats are available for hire, but booking is essential to avoid disappointment. For more information click here.

The best flies are: buzzers, montana, damsel nymph, hoppers and diawl bach.

CLICK HERE FOR AN ANGLERS' GUIDE TO KENNICK RESERVOIR

Fishery Information

Address: Kennick Reservoir, Near Christow, Devon. EX6 7NZ

Season Date: 3 March – 30 November

Fishery Size: 50 acres

Species: Stocked Rainbow Trout and wild Brown Trout (fly fishing only)

Best Flies: Buzzers, Montana, Damsel Nymph, Hoppers, Diawl Bach

Biggest Fish: 2018 - 13lb 10oz Rainbow

Day Permits: Available online or on 01566 771930

Evening Permits: Available from 3pm in April, September and October, 4pm in May and August and 5pm in June and July.

Season Permits: Available online or on 01566 771930.

Boat Bookings: online only. Please note that you will need to watch a boat safety and induction video before you can use a fishing boat on our waters. You will find a link to this in your confirmation email which you will receive once you have booked your boat.

Float tubing: Float tube permits are available to purchase online alongside your permit for £5 per day. View our Float Tubing Good Practise Guidelines

Contact: 01647 252898

Click here for the trout fishing rules

FIND SEASON DATES AND PRICES HERE

Tuition:

Dave Hoskin Tel: 01647 252244 [email protected]; www.dartmoorschoolofflyfishing.com
Richard Jackson Tel: 01647 246 65 [email protected]; www.devonflyfisher.com
John Hern Tel: 01392 464917 [email protected]
Andy Watson Tel: 07587 219 213 [email protected]
Geoff Stephens Tel: 0774 986 7393 [email protected], www.flyfishingdevon.co.uk
Dil Singh [email protected]; www.dsflyfishing.co.uk

Latest Catch Reports:

These reports are only possible if you fill out a catch return

kennick_weekly_catch_report_14th_april.pdf

kennick_weekly_catch_report_7th_march.pdf

Directions:

BOOK NOW

Searching Availability...

Whenever you leave the lakes, remember to Check, Clean, Dry

Invasive plants and animals can carry diseases that kill fish. Protect the environment and sport you enjoy by cleaning your kit before and after using the water.

Find out more here

Facilities:

Kennick Reservoir facilities include a car park and toilets at the Anglers’ Lodge. There is nearby accommodation at Kennick Sawmill.

Latest

Earth Day 2024

Monday 22 April is Earth Day! The theme for 2024, ‘planet vs plastic’, is aiming to raise awareness about plastic use worldwide and to ultimately reduce plastic use by 60% by 2050. Dartmoor Biodiversity Officer Morwenna discusses the use of plastic tree guards in our work, when they are necessary and how they can be substituted.
Locals month

We are offering 25% off equipment hire and camping in May to our local community as a thank you for your continued support.
Trout Fisheries March Report

Generally the weather for the opening month has been both mixed and challenging to anglers, with strong winds, rain, snow and hail, and cold temperatures. Fish have been feeding throughout the water column, with some already starting to feed near the surface, and many have been caught using floating line tactics. The very wet winter means that the water levels are full.
World Water Day 2024

Friday 22 March 2024 is the United Nations World Water Day! Dartmoor Biodiversity Officer Morwenna explains some of the projects she’s working on with South West Water to improve water quality at our lakes and reservoirs.

Royalty Fishery

Located in Christchurch, Royalty Fishery is a premier fishery with a long and distinguished history.
Siblyback Lake

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.
Stithians Lake

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.
Burrator Reservoir

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.
Colliford Lake

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.
Roadford Lake

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.
Fernworthy Reservoir

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.
Wistlandpound Reservoir

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.
Avon Dam

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).
Crowdy Reservoir

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.

Current reservoir levels

See the current water levels in our reservoirs.
Equipment Hire

Experience the ultimate family adventure by exploring the lakes at your own pace. We have a variety of watersports equipment available to hire including; kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards and more.
Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor

Wimbleball is a hub of colour and activity throughout all the seasons. Nestled within the rolling hills of Exmoor National Park, there are plenty of ways to get active at Wimbleball. With an array of walking and cycling trails winding around the 530 acre site, and a fantastic range of watersports and other activities available, this is the perfect location to spend a day outdoors – whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging expedition.
South West Lakes Trust Booking Confirmation

Thank you for your South West Lakes Trust booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email shortly with details of your booking.
Book Now
Self-launch and Launch Membership

Already have your own kit? You can launch your own kayak, canoe, dingy or stand up paddleboard at our lakes! And, if you are a regular visitor, you can even become a member and launch as often as you like at all five activity centres!
Wimbleball Campsite

Experience a family camping holiday like no other at Wimbleball Lake, nestled in the hills of Exmoor National Park. Create the ultimate camping break packed with adventure, creating lasting memories for the whole family.
Roadford Lake, Devon

Roadford Lake sits within the stunning surroundings of the Wolf Valley, close to Launceston on the Cornwall border. One of the biggest and busiest inland waters in the South West, the lake is surrounded by a variety of natural habitats, including Culm Grasslands, woodlands, old pastures and orchards.
Join the team

Current vacancies
Siblyback, Cornwall

Surrounded by the striking backdrop of Bodmin Moor, Siblyback Lake lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). There is a beautiful 5km round lake circuit, which is perfect for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bicycles. The path runs adjacent to the lake, and passes by the impressive Siblyback Dam and through woodlands.F