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Chalkstream fishing with Roxtons
The Estate at Wilsford cum Lake is a quintessentially English sporting estate, nestling in the famous Woodford valley on the river Avon - a setting of untouched rural charm, yet easily accessible from London via the M3 and A303. Roxtons is extremely fortunate in being able to offer this unique fishing venue.
The fishing comprises about a mile of double bank on the Avon plus an interesting side stream. The river is surprisingly wide for the upper Avon and wonderfully kept with a huge number of trout, from small wild fish to monsters in double figures - the result of a clever stocking and fishing policy instigated by the owner of the estate.
The river is stocked with fish of around 2lbs, although not necessarily every year, which grow on quickly in these food rich waters. The secret is that all fish caught of 4lbs and over are returned to the river, making it easy to spot fish of 5lbs or 6lbs and to catch shadowy glimpses of some real goliaths.
The fishing is for a maximum of 4 rods, although non fishing guests are welcome. It is available on a select number of weekdays from mid May through to mid June up to the weed cut and again for the first half of July. Mayfly on the Avon is generally prolific and lasts for a much longer period than many other rivers. The fishing is generally from 9.30am to 6.30pm.
At the estate
The superbly maintained estate has the added advantage of a spacious and immaculate 5 star, two bedroomed flat which may be taken with the fishing, on either a fully catered or self-catering basis.
In the surrounding area
Antrobus Arms Hotel
Church Street, Amesbury, SP4 7EU
01980 623 163
Stratford Lodge Hotel
Castle Road, 4 Park Lane, Salisbury, SP1 3NP
01722 325 177
White Hart Hotel
St John Street, Salisbury, SP1 2SD
01722 327 476
Rods
A 9ft rod for a 6wt line is the all-rounder we recommend, however many people, Americans in particular like shorter rods and lighter lines. As a guide, the lightest line we recommend would be a 4wt; otherwise it is difficult to cast into a strong headwind: and the shortest rod we recommend would be an 8ft which gives reasonable line control and enough power to cast a good distance.
Reels
These are generally not an issue with trout fishing on these rivers, but a balanced outfit gives you the perfect combination to maximise your casting.
Lines
Lines of suitable weight for your rod are very important, if your line is a 5wt with a 6wt rod, the rod will not load properly; conversely a 7wt line with a 6wt rod will deaden the action and make casting heavy work.
The ideal line for dry fly and nymph fishing is a weight forward floating line, with a high float profile. The weight forward line is an ideal shooting line and is easy to pick up off the water.
Some fishermen still prefer traditional double taper.
Terminal Tackle (Leaders & Tippet)
Nylon tapered leaders (9ft normally) 4x to 7x, approximately 2½lb to 6lb breaking strain.
Nylon tippet material 4x to 7x, approximately 2½lb to 6lb breaking strain.
nb Not Flurocarbon for dryfly fishing.
Flies
All traditional English dryfly patterns. Specific patterns such as Mayfly, Kites Imperial and Greenwell's Glory, all of which are easily obtainable in local tackle shops.
Fly Dressing
Floatants: Liquid, gels, sprays and powders are all used depending on the size, type of fly and personal choice.
Sinkants: Pastes and liquids are used for sinking and de-shining leaders and tippet.
General Tackle
Scissors, forceps or snips.
As per UK law, nets should all be knotless.
Insect repellents are generally not needed but it is always wise to have in case.
Polaroid glasses in yellow or grey. Yellow for cloudy dull days and grey for sunny days to cut out glare.
Footwear & Clothing
Wellington Boots are the normal footwear as wading is rarely needed or permitted.
Lightweight Waterproof (including leggings if available).
Warm sweater.
Hat of your own choice but long peaks like baseball caps do keep out the glare.
Southern England is a wonderful place to visit with a host of historic places to see such as:
- Stonehenge
- Winchester Cathedral
- Salisbury
- Romsey Abbey
Or alternatively you can just enjoy this tranquil estate.
Eating Locally
Haunch of Venison
1 Minster Street, Salisbury, SP1 1TB
01722 411 313
Ristorante Alpino
70 New Canal Street, Salisbury, SP1 2AQ
01722 338 932
The Winterbourne Arms
Main Road, Winterbounre Dauntsey, Salisbury, SP4 6EW
01980 611 306
The Royal Oak
Great Wishford, Salisbury, SP2 0PD
01722 790 079
The Woodford valley is situated between Amesbury and Salisbury, very close to the A303.
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Enquire now
Call one of our consultants to book now:
+44 (0)1488 689 788
Or alternatively fill in this short enquiry form and we'll get back to you shortly:
Our View
With unique stocking and management policies, the owners have created one of the best chalkstream fisheries in the UK.
Price Guide
Estate Days
£2,490 + vat per day for 4 rods including lunch and two ghillies.
£2,075 + vat per day for 4 rods including one ghillie and no lunch.
Availability
Please contact us regarding availability for this venue
