Fishing

Brown Trout Fishing

Fly fishing for wild brown trout is possible in a range of ponds and lakes on the estate. The trout breed naturally in the streams that rise from springs in the woods, and hence are abundant. There are ten ponds on the headwaters and tributaries of the river Stour. All are in peaceful, beautiful surroundings. A season's permit costs £100, a week's permit £30. The brown trout fishing season is from 22 March to 30 September.

Later in the season there can be a problem with blanket weed, particularly in sunny weather.

Totally secluded in woodland, this pond is named after a nearby gothic folly. Fish in a world of your own and forget the 21st century. You are sure of a bite from the numerous young trout which were bred here. However patience and cunning will be needed to catch one of the few veteran remnants of an earlier stocking: the biggest could be 10lb, but they do not hang around. Anything under 1lb can be kept if you wish.

If you do not have four wheel drive you will need to walk the last 200 metres.

With mature oak and ash trees on one side and ancient parkland on the other this is an attractive spot. Fish from here cannot readily breed, so the stock have all been introduced. They have had space to grow and there are some really fine fish: 5lb is the biggest in recent years. Catch and return. Access is possible in a normal car.

Gasper Ponds

A series of four ponds up a stream on the edge of the woods. Trout breed very readily here. Fish under 1lb may be kept. There is a five minute walk from where you can park.

Two ponds in a sheltered grassy valley. Recently dredged they should be excellent once they have settled. Catch and return.

Contact Sally Monkhouse   01747 840643, sally.monkhouse@stourhead.com.