Chalkstream fishing with Roxtons

Compton Chamberlayne Estate lies just west of the ancient city of Wilton on the Wiltshire chalk downs. The estate is beautifully kept with mature oak trees and untouched water meadows line the banks of this famous river.

The quality of the dry fly fishing here is simply wonderful and rods return year after year.

Compton Chamberlayne boasts some of the best dry fly fishing for brown trout. The river meanders through the ancient untouched water meadows which produce a haven for up-winged insects.

The estate is split into six main two rod beats which all have perfect access along the banks and a fishing hut to lunch in or simply to watch the river flow by. There are also numerous benches for observation and contemplation.

The character of the river varies between shallow runs, smooth glides and deep pockets. The river runs through both open meadows and wooded areas, the latter of which provides both shade and protection for the fish. Each beat produces its own challenges and requires stealth, patience and understanding of fly life and water conditions to produce the best results.

For a small group or individual fishermen Compton Chamberlayne is a magical venue that lends itself to both the experienced and the novice angler alike.

The Pembroke Arms Hotel
Minster Street, Wilton, SP2 0BH
01722 743 328

The Rose and Crown Hotel
Harnham Road, Salisbury, SP2 8JQ
0845 45 66 399

Salisbury Old Mill House
Warminster Road, South Newton, SP2 0QD
01722 742 458

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.

Eating Locally

The Lamb Inn
High Street, Hindon, SP3 6DP
01747 820 573

The Crown Inn
Church Street, Tisbury, Wilts SP3 6NH
01747 870 221

The Pembroke Arms
Shaftsbury Road, Fovant, Wilts, SP3 5JA
01722 714 201

Situated in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, west of Salisbury.