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 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.

Boat Fishing

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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. The wheelyboat for disabled anglers should be booked 48 hours in advance. For more information click here.

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

This is a £2000 BEST OF THE BEST WATER - see our competition page for more details

CLICK HERE FOR AN ANGLERS' GUIDE TO KENNICK RESERVOIR

Fishery Information

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

Season Date: 13 February – 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 onsite from the fishing lodge, online or call South West Lakes Trust 01566 771930.

Boat Bookings: online only

You must read the ‘Boat rules during Covid-19’ guidance before booking a boat – find out more: Kennick Boat rules during Covid-19

Float tubing: View our Float Tubing Good Practise Guidelines

Contact: 01647 252898

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_9th_may.pdf

kennick_weekly_catch_report_2nd_may.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

South West Invasive Species Forum

South West Lakes Trust and South West Water are hosting the South West Invasive Species Forum on Thursday 27 May, 10.00 – 13.30, with Forum members from across the South West region coming together, digitally, for a morning of talks and regional updates. This event is suitable for anyone working in the environment.
SW Lakes Weekly Trout Fisheries Round Up - W/E 9 May

A quieter week, not surprising given the changeable weather which unfortunately led to the rescheduling of the Best of the Best at Burrator until 18 September. The high winds forecast for the Saturday made this the most sensible decision and we do appreciate. There are still plenty of spaces left for qualifying.
Bird Hide Volunteering Event at Roadford

Join us for our first ever Conservation Crew Day(s) at Roadford to help our Ranger Team repair the damaged bird hide.
Bird Hide Volunteering Event at Roadford

Join us for our first ever Conservation Crew Day(s) at Roadford to help our Ranger Team repair the damaged bird hide.

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.
Meldon Reservoir

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.

Vote for your favourite photo competition entry

It's time to have your say!
Join the team

Current vacancies
SW Lakes Weekly Trout Fishery Round Up - W/E 25 April

Another great week on the water for anglers, ending with the Snowbee Team of 4 Event on Sunday 25 April. A brilliant day and more news to follow on that shortly. Please keep the catch reports coming in, we really do appreciate the depth of information they offer and it’s a great help to us. Thanks also for the great photos and videos we’ve received so far.
SW Lakes Weekly Trout Fishery Round Up - W/E 11 April

Despite trickier weather conditions, lots of fun was had and some great fish landed- in some cases during snow! Lots of surface action spotted and again, it’s great to hear of the social side of fishing being enjoyed, especially at the moment.
SW Lakes Weekly Trout Fishery Round Up - W/E 4 April

First and foremost, I would like to say a big thanks to all the anglers, bailiffs, volunteers and clubs for the warm welcomes I have received - it’s been great and l have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with you and look forward to doing more of the same!
SW Lakes Weekly Trout Fishery Round Up - W/E 2 May

Some great angling across the venues this week, despite changeable weather conditions ending with the Kennick Pairs on Sunday 2 May.
South West Invasive Species Forum

South West Lakes Trust and South West Water are hosting the South West Invasive Species Forum on Thursday 27 May, 10.00 – 13.30, with Forum members from across the South West region coming together, digitally, for a morning of talks and regional updates. This event is suitable for anyone working in the environment.
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.
SW Lakes Weekly Trout Fishery Round Up - W/E 21 February 2021

Our first full week of fishing has passed at Kennick and Siblyback. The fishing was mixed last week as many anglers battled with the constant wind and rain! The forecast this week is looking really nice – I expect the fishing to match the weather!
SW Lakes Weekly Trout Fishery Round Up - W/E 14 February 2021

We opened Siblyback and Kennick on Friday 12 for season permit holders and it was great to see some hardy anglers braving the conditions! The forecast for this week ahead is looking very good for fishing and we stocked a lot of fish into both the lakes so expect some cracking sport.