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Testcombe Beat

Plan a session

Testcombe Beat runs along the Upper River Test from the Mayfly Pub bridge to Chilbolton village. It’s a proper varied chalk-stream fishery, with peaceful traditional water, historic features, fast runs, deep pools and wild carriers.

Run by Testcombe Beat · checked 15 Oct 2026 · boundaries only partly described by the club

River level

Measured — Environment Agency

Chilbolton Side gauge

Nearest EA gauge we've matched — it isn't on this stretch, so levels on your peg will differ.

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We don't publish an "ideal level" — nobody can promise one. Flood water is dangerous: if it's up and coloured, stay well back from the edge. Open Chilbolton Side on Live River Levels

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The lowdown

  • The fishery is split into three bits: Home, Lower and Upper beats. So there’s plenty of variety, depending on the sort of day you fancy.
  • Home Beat is the quieter, traditional-feeling option. It includes the main River Test plus a parallel carrier, giving the water a lovely bit of character.
  • The Lower Beat has some cracking history around it, including an 18th-century boathouse and King’s Gate, linked with King George VI’s fishing.
  • Upper Beat is the more testing ground. Expect faster water, deeper pools and wild carriers, so it should keep experienced anglers properly switched on.
  • There’s a Grade 2 listed fishing hut dating from 1888, built by the Disraeli family. It can be used as a base for lessons and selected events — a handy bit of comfort on the bank.
  • The water is described as suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. Guiding can also be requested when booking, which is bob on if you want a hand reading the river.
  • Native brown trout are the principal named species. The Mayfly hatch is one of the standout moments of the season, adding a proper bit of buzz to the fishing calendar.
  • The published season runs from 6 April to the end of October. That gives a good spread of spring, summer and early-autumn fishing across the different beats.
  • Bookings cover 1–3, 4–6, 7–9 or 10-plus rods. Equipment can be requested too, so there’s less faff when sorting a tailored day out.
  • We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: The beat is promoted for tailored fishing experiences and lessons, with guiding and equipment available by request. The Mayfly period is a notable part of the season, but no specific fishing method is published.

Access & tickets

Day ticket

Book through the Testcombe Beat website enquiry form. Available for 1–3, 4–6, 7–9 and 10-plus rods.

Contact Testcombe Beat through its website enquiry form. Bookings are available for 1–3, 4–6, 7–9 and 10-plus rods, with payment completed after the operator responds to the enquiry.

Fish the club names

trout

Key rules

  • The published fishing season runs from 6 April to the end of October.
  • Bookings are made through the Testcombe Beat website enquiry form.
  • Guiding can be requested when booking.
  • Fishing equipment can be requested when booking.
  • The Grade 2 listed fishing hut is available as a base for lessons and selected events.

Coarse fishing on English rivers is closed from 15 March to 15 June inclusive. That's the law for coarse fish on rivers — it's not a club rule, and game-fishing seasons work differently.

GOV.UK — Freshwater rod fishing rules: when and where you can fish

Where it is

Pins mark the access postcode each club gives, not the bank itself. Exact boundary map: see rights holder.

Community reported

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