Edition: Friday 19 September 2025

Weekly River & Hatches Update

As we head into the final stretch of September, we’re nearing the end of chalkstream trout season on many of our beats. So, it’s time to make the most of it! Recent rainfall has given the rivers a much-needed refresh, the fish are still feeding (though more selectively) and the changing of the seasons brings a new perspective on our chalkstreams.

Weather:

It’s looking fairly settled today, both dry and warm. However, heavy rain, strong South Westerly winds and changeable temperatures are expected over the weekend and into the coming week. Turning a lot cooler from Sunday onwards, some frost and fog patches are possible. Make sure to wrap up and take your thermos! Sunrise: 06:46 Sunset: 19:13 GMT. UV: Medium, Pollen: Low, Pollution: Low. Pressure: 1019mb, Falling

River Flows:

This recent rainfall has been a blessing for our rivers, significantly boosting water levels. Rivers such as the Kennet, Dove, Wye and Coln are still below normal, but we are hopeful that levels improve in the next week or so.

Hatches:

Check those cobwebs for Large Dark Olives like the Kite’s Imperial, Pale Waterys like the Tups Indispensable, Midges (Emerger and Adult), Sedges and Terrestrials.

Fly Patterns:

All about the Caddis fly this week. The Elk Hair Caddis Fly pattern was designed to imitate an adult Caddis or a Stonefly. It’s extremely popular during a hatch and will take trout in a variety of settings. Cast to feeding fish or drift through fast runs to induce a take!

Our Seasonal tips:

Dusk is a favourite time for surface feeders – be prepared to stay late and catch the rise! As the days are getting shorter, it’s a wise idea to keep a torch on you to tie on that fly in fading light. We all know how easy it is to lose track of time too!

News, events and catch reports:

  • Steve had a great day at Abbots Worthy, landing two small trout parr, 12-inch grayling, 2 1/5 lb brown trout using green nymph size 16 and size 18 beaded nymphs. “Quintessential English River in beautiful surroundings”.

  • Robert caught 12 amazing brown trout and a rainbow at Whitchurch Fulling Mill last week “Excellent managed beat, gin clear water for sight fishing with a wide variation across the beat. If I could only fish one place it would be Fulling Mill”.

  • Buy seasonal fly patterns: Order our bespoke seasonal fly packs with all the key fly patterns for September on our website, via email, or over the phone. We have a great selection to choose from.
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