Chalkstream fishing with Roxtons

There are many places to stay near the historic city of Winchester. We would suggest:

Lainston House Hotel
A 5 star country house hotel
Tel: 01962 766 088

Hotel du Vin
5 star. The original Hotel du Vin, this is the smallest member of the hotel group.
Tel: 01962 841 414

Rods
A 9ft rod for a 6wt line is the all-rounder we recommend. 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. 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.

Just 10 minutes from the river bank is Winchester, an unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the South Downs. Winchester is England's ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great.

Today, Winchester combines the best of city life with the freshness of the surrounding countryside. One hour from London, this is England as it ought to be.

Eating Locally

Loch Fyne
Wonderful sea food
01962 872 930

The Chesil Rectory
Award winning restrant
01962 851 555

East Lodge is 15 minutes from the M3 motorway just south of Twyford.