Edition: Friday 17 April 2026

Weekly River & Hatches Update

April signals the long-awaited return to the river! You are straining at the leash after months of confinement and there are new rods, lines, flies and assorted kit to be tried out for the first time. Successful fishing relies on stealth and matching the sporadic hatches, usually peaking between 10 am and 3 pm.

Weather:

The weather has certainly been keeping us on our toes! It’s been noticeably cooler, wetter, and a bit windy over the past few days, but brighter conditions are on the way. Expect some sunny spells this week, with temperatures feeling pleasantly warm, perfect for encouraging more hatches Pollen: Moderate UV: Moderate L: Pollution

River Flows:

According to the EA, our rivers are running at normal levels and are in excellent condition for the season ahead. A bit more rain wouldn’t go amiss, but overall we’re in a strong position and the trout are waking!!

Hatches:

April fly fishing calls for matching early spring hatches like Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and March Browns and other midges. In some instances, nymphs can also be used to target trout if there is no surface activity present. Always check the fishing rules for your beat ahead of your trip though.

Fly Patterns:

It's Dry Fly time: Parachute Adams (14-20), BWO CDC, March Brown spiders, Elk Hair Caddis. If you are early season Nymphing, try a classic Pheasant Tail (size 14-18) or a Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear. A Green Shrimp might also do the trick as stated in the feedback below. You can purchase the April/May Fly Pack.

Our Seasonal tips:

If this is your first trip of the season, take a moment to go over your gear before heading out. Clean and check your reel and fly line, rod, waders and glasses. Also be prepared for every weather eventuality. April = showers! In cooler temperatures it may be more challenging to tempt trout so be ready to swap tactics when things aren’t working. It's always worth taking a moment to slow down and observe the river life.

News, events and catch reports:

  • There’s still time to book yourselves into our Fly Fishing School, whether it is for a private lesson, a family day, a group booking, a Foundation Course or step up your skills on a Chalkstream Course.

  • Kanara: Mr Taylor had another 5 star day at Kanara, catching two wild browns on a Hares Ear and Green Shrimp.

  • Abbots Worthy: “Idyllic water, lovely scenery and plenty of great fishing to be had. Four brown trout caught and safely returned.” Grannom Patterns have been successful on the River Frome at Ilsington– “Picturesque, extensive, varied, challenging, relatively easy to access.”
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