Kimbridge Meadow Fishery

River level

The lowdown

• The Meadow Fishery was created in the early 1980s by diverting water from the main River Test. Cottage Stream is described as a true carrier of the Test, while Garden Stream, Alder Stream and Woodland Stream make up the rest of the fishery.
• Most of the fishing is double bank, with Cottage Stream the only single-bank section. There’s no beat system, so anglers can move freely around all four streams and pick a swim that looks bob on.
• This is chalk-stream fishing, so think clear, steady water and careful presentation. The estate describes the wider Kimbridge fishing as purist upstream dry-fly work.
• Upstream dry fly is the preferred approach. Upstream nymphing is allowed, but only when casting at an identified fish — no blind chucking about.
• The season runs from 1 May to 12 October, with fishing bookable on any available day. A bit of warmth and low, clear water should suit the dry-fly game, while a touch of colour can make fish less spooky.
• There’s no wading at all, so work the water from the bank and take your time over the glides and edges. Bridges are out of bounds too, and the fish farms must be avoided.
• A normal booking allows up to four individual rods. Exclusive private-group bookings can stretch to six rods, handy for a small club day or a tidy group outing.
• The gate opens at 8am and is locked at dusk. There’s an ample car park, fishing hut, picnic bench, BBQ area and riverside benches. The on-site toilet has no running water.
• You can buy flies from the riverkeeper for £2 each, and optional tackle hire is available for £20 per person. Don’t forget the Environment Agency rod licence, and rod sharing isn’t allowed.

Methods: Upstream dry fly is the main event here, with upstream nymphing only when you’re casting at an identified fish. Keep it neat, mobile and bank-based — no wading, no faff.

Access & tickets

Individual anglers and groups can book fishing days on any available date during the season. The standard day ticket is £125 per rod including VAT; exclusive private-group bookings allow up to six rods.

Fish the club names

trout

Named by Kimbridge Estate / Kimbridge on the Test across its waters, not for this stretch on its own.

Key rules

• Season runs from 1 May to 12 October.
• A current Environment Agency rod licence is required for every rod.
• Upstream dry fly is preferred.
• Upstream nymphing is permitted only when casting at an identified fish.
• Bag limit is four fish.
• All wild brown trout and fish under two pounds must be returned carefully.
• Complete the returns book in the fishing hut.
• Fishing from bridges is forbidden.
• Wading is strictly forbidden.
• Keep nets are prohibited.
• Fish farms are out of bounds.
• Dogs are not allowed.
• Rod sharing is not allowed.

Where it is