Fly Fishing around London (The Ultimate Guide)

Fly fishing in the area of London, despite its urban size, presents a wealth of promising opportunities. Whether your passion lies in game or coarse fly fishing, London caters to anglers of every type.

I am Daniel O’Neill, a devoted angler with more than fourteen years of experience in the world of UK fly fishing. In this article, we will embark on a journey to uncover the finest fly fishing locations nestled around the busy area of London.

My Experience Fly Fishing around London

I’ve had the pleasure of visiting London on multiple occasions and have consistently been amazed by the multitude of fly-fishing opportunities available in and around this bustling city.

Located approximately 35 miles inland from the sea, London isn’t the go-to destination for saltwater fly fishing enthusiasts. However, based on my experiences, I can attest to the presence of superb rainbow trout fisheries, exceptional opportunities for catching resident brown trout, and an impressive range of pike that can be targeted with fly fishing techniques.

It’s worth noting that sea trout are also abundant in the vicinity of London, and you can even find them in the mighty Thames River.

Why Fly Fish around London?

I wholeheartedly recommend fly fishing in the vicinity of London. It’s not just about the exceptional fishing opportunities but also the fact that London provides a fishing experience that is truly one-of-a-kind and cannot be replicated elsewhere. 

There’s an intriguing and fantastic uniqueness in casting your line in such a vast urban city like London, making it an extraordinary and memorable experience for any angler.

10 Best Trout Rivers around London

The vicinity around London offers prime opportunities for river trout fishing. In the following section, I’ll introduce you to my top ten recommended river locations where I discuss the pursuit of wild brown trout in this region.

The River Thames 

The River Thames, which flows through the heart of London, is an unexpected oasis for fly fishing enthusiasts in the midst of the bustling city. It is conveniently accessible from a number of points throughout the city.

There are urban and rural areas along the River Thames, making for a distinctive fishing experience. As this river can fluctuate greatly, pay attention to tide timings for the most successful fishing experience.

For the Thames, the Clouser Minnow is a popular fly pattern amongst local anglers. The river Thames is home to a variety of species, such as perch, pike, and even chub.

The River Wandle 

The River Wandle is a hidden gem in South London and provides a unique urban fly fishing experience. A 4×4 is not required because it is close to towns and has easy-to-use public transit.

Anglers on the Wandle often succeed using fly patterns like the Griffith’s Gnat. The River Wandle’s once-polluted waters have been cleaned up and are now teeming with trout. 

The River Test

The River Test is a fly fisherman’s heaven and one of England’s most well-known rivers; it is located just outside of London yet is still easily accessible. A 4×4 is not required, and access is fairly easy. The slow-moving water makes it ideal for precise dry fly presentation.

To catch fish on the Test, use patterns like the Blue-winged Olive or the Mayfly. In addition to its brown trout and grayling, the River Test is renowned for its historic fishing cottages, some of which date back to the 19th century. 

The River Itchen 

Another well-known river close to London, the River Itchen, offers fantastic fly fishing opportunities. The stunning surroundings make the short drive from the city worthwhile.

The River Itchen had crystal clear water and stunning surroundings. Access is relatively easy and does not require a 4×4. For fishermen on the Itchen, patterns like the Klinkhammer work well. The River Itchen is credited with helping to create modern fly fishing, as it was here that the famous Halford’s Dry Fly was developed in the late 19th century. 

The River Lee (or Lea) 

The River Lee, which flows through Greater London and Hertfordshire, is a secret urban gem for fly fishers. It is conveniently close to cities and accessible by public transport even without a 4×4.

The water is often calm and the currents are controllable for nymphing. A popular fly pattern for the Lee is the Sedge. Many different species can be found in the River Lee. You might encounter kingfishers and water voles while fishing in this urban oasis.

The River Colne 

The River Colne, which flows through West London and Buckinghamshire can be reached by car and is close to towns without a 4×4. There are urban and rural areas along the River Colne. The water is typically calm and the currents are often mild. 

On the Colne, anglers frequently use the Elk Hair Caddis and Olive Dun patterns. The River Colne is a conservation area, and fly fishing helps support the preservation of this stunning natural environment.

The River Mole

Fly fishing on the River Mole, which meanders through Surrey and West Sussex, is relatively close to London. It is situated near some small local towns and a 4×4 is not required.

The body type of the River Mole includes both urban and more remote areas. Patterns like the Partridge and Yellow and the Zebra Midge work well. Brown trout and grayling are abundant in the River Mole, which makes it a perfect area for fly fishing.

The River Crane 

The River Crane in West London is a notable urban river for fly fishers. It is ideally positioned close to towns and transportation centers, and a 4×4 is not necessary.

Anglers on the Crane often have luck using patterns like the Black Ant and the Griffith’s Gnat. Significant restoration efforts have benefited the River Crane, and fishing in its urban canal can be fantastic sport for pike.

The Wey River 

The River Wey, which runs through Hampshire and Surrey and is close to London, is a great place for fly fishing. It provides a calm getaway from the city’s bustle and is accessible by car.

The body of the River Wey includes stretches through serene farmland. It is quite easy to access and does not require a 4×4. For successful angling on the Wey, try patterns like the Daddy Longlegs. Its banks are lined with lovely villages and historic water mills. 

The Stort River

Fly fishing is a peaceful pastime that can be done close to London on the River Stort, which flows through Hertfordshire and Essex. There are portions of the River Stort’s body that travel through rural areas. 

Access is relatively easy and does not require a 4×4. Anglers on the Stort can catch fish using patterns like the Olive Dun and the Sedge. The River Stort is home to a variety of animals, including kingfishers.

10 Best Trout Lake Lakes around London

Contrary to what most people may believe, there is actually fantastic fishing to be had around London, as indicated by the large number of lakes in the surrounding area. In this section, we will delve into some of the local lakes where trout fishing as well as some superb coarse fishing is possible.

Hampstead Heath Ponds

Situated in the center of London, Hampstead Heath’s ponds provide an exceptional opportunity for urban fishing. There is no need for a 4×4 to go to them from the city. 

In these calm, open waterways, fly fishermen frequently use atlas worms suspended under a bung. Historical documents from the 17th century mention these ponds, which have long been a favorite hangout for anglers.

Walthamstow Reservoirs

East London’s Walthamstow Reservoirs are a favorite fishing spot for local fly anglers. They don’t need a 4×4 and are reachable via public transportation. Anglers of all skill levels can catch fish in this open area using a variety of fly patterns. 

These reservoirs were built in the 19th century to supply drinking water to Londoners, but they have since turned into a tourist and fishing location.

Syon Park Lake

Syon Park Lake is situated in West London and is near the city centre. For brown trout fishing in this lovely, wide environment, traditional wet and dry flies frequently work well. When you’re not fishing, you may explore the beautiful gardens and historic palace at Syon Park, which is the London residence of the Duke of Northumberland.

Shepperton Lake

Brown trout fishing is popular at Shepperton Lake in Surrey, a suburb of London. Public transport can get you there, and a 4×4 is not necessary. 

In this open setting with good casting opportunities, anglers frequently utilize patterns like the damsel fly. Shepperton Lake is a multi-species angling destination since it has a wide variety of fish species, including carp and perch.

Virginia Water Lake

To the west of London in Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water Lake offers a tranquil environment for brown trout fishing. It can be reached by train and does not need a 4×4.

To provide a special cultural touch to your fly fishing experience, the lake has a magnificent 100-foot totem pole that was given to the area by Canada in 1958.

Wraysbury Reservoir

To the west of London, Wraysbury Reservoir is renowned for its brown trout fishing. Public transport can get you there, and a 4×4 is not necessary. 

Pheasant Tail Nymphs are popular fly designs used by fly fishermen in this wide setting with great casting opportunities. The Wraysbury Reservoir has a fascinating past because the RAF’s Dambusters Squadron tested the infamous “Bouncing Bomb” there in secret during World War II.

Frensham Great Pond

Frensham Great Pond, located in Surrey not far from London, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

You could come across uncommon reptiles like the sand lizard and smooth snake in the nearby heathland while brown trout fishing. It’s a location where fishing and conservation coexist, providing a special chance to see uncommon wildlife while fishing.

Stoke Newington West Reservoir

This reservoir, which is located in North London, is a good place to go brown trout fishing. No 4×4 vehicle is necessary, and public transport can get you there. The reservoir, which is a component of the Woodberry Wetlands nature reserve, offers fishermen a tranquil, natural setting right in the middle of the city.

Osterley Park Lake

Osterley Park Lake is a popular spot for brown trout fishing and is located in West London. It is simple to reach and does not require a 4×4. Your fishing trip will have a beautiful backdrop because to the lake’s location within the spectacular Osterley Park and House estate, an 18th-century palace with gorgeous gardens. It should be noted that fishing is only permitted in the middle lake. 

Stoke Newington East Reservoir

This reservoir, which is close to Stoke Newington West Reservoir, provides more options for fishing in North London. Public transport can get you there, and a 4×4 is not necessary. This reservoir, like its western counterpart, is a component of the Woodberry Wetlands natural reserve, offering a tranquil setting from the bustle of the city.

Saltwater Fly Fishing around London

You can find sea fish species up to the Thames tidal flood barrier in Woolwich, which is located in southeast London and is more than fifty miles from the North Sea. Remarkably, flounder and silver eels can also be found even farther upstream of this location.

Canvey Island

Canvey Island is approximately an hour and a half away from London’s city center, situated at the base of the Thames.

It’s an ideal location for saltwater fly fishing. You can catch fish species such as pollock, bass, and even mullet around Canvey Island.

Grays

Grays Wharf is an excellent spot for fly fishing, particularly when targeting bass. In this area, you can also catch other species like pollock, coal fish, and even pouting using fly fishing techniques. It’s crucial to avoid obstructing any ships while fly fishing in the wharf and approach the water with extreme caution due to changing undercurrents.

Woolwich

Woolwich is relatively far inland, and many species tend not to venture much further than this point. However, Woolwich can be an ideal location, under the right conditions, for catching a personal best mullet. Mullet are known to feed and grow to impressive sizes around Woolwich, earning them the nickname “UK’s bonefish” due to their fighting spirit.

Erith Pier

Erith Pier is the longest pier on the Thames and offers great opportunities during a flooding tide. Many microspecies can be caught on the fly around this pier, including pollock, whiting, garfish, and pouting. Keep in mind that this pier can get quite busy, so it’s advisable to avoid it on weekends.

Southend on Sea

Southend on Sea boasts the world’s largest pleasure pier, situated an hour and a half away from London. This pier is renowned for fantastic fishing, especially if you’re interested in catching mackerel on the fly. For the best results, use a sinking leader and fish it two hours after high tide.

London Fly Fishing – Fish Species

There is a wide variety of fish that can be caught around London. In this section, we will focus on the most commonly targeted species for fly fishing in the London area.

Brown Trout

The primary target for fly fishing in the London area is the Brown Trout. London boasts numerous rivers and lakes that are home to these elusive fish. Brown Trout can be found feeding almost year-round, but it’s essential to recognize that they are predominantly a seasonal catch.

Pike

Residing in the local lakes surrounding London, Pike can grow to impressive sizes and offer an exciting challenge for fly fishing enthusiasts. However, due to London’s urban nature, Pike populations are often vulnerable to poaching, leading to a reduction in their numbers.

To help conserve these fish, it’s advisable to target them during the colder months when their survival rate upon release is higher.

Perch

Fly fishing for Perch can be a delightful experience, and they can be encountered in many of London’s canals. These feisty fish put up a thrilling fight when they’re on the feed. Exercise caution when handling them, as they have sharp spines along their bodies.

Roach

Similar to Perch, Roach can be found in most of London’s waterways. These small but spirited fish can provide an enjoyable fly fishing experience, especially when they’re actively feeding.

Rudd

Rudd, much like Roach, are widespread in London’s waterways. These small fish can be a lot of fun to catch on the fly, particularly when they’re actively feeding.

Sea Trout

In the Thames River, you can target Sea Trout, which are considered an exciting catch for fly fishing enthusiasts in London. These fish are known for their vigorous fight due to their excellent condition.

They usually sport a silver coloration and are slightly larger than local Brown Trout. It’s worth noting that Sea Trout are not a distinct species but rather Brown Trout that have migrated to and returned from the sea.

Mullet

Mullet are often referred to as the bonefish of the UK. Despite their size, they put up an impressive fight and are a must-catch species while in London. However, they can be selective eaters, and some anglers spend an entire season trying to catch them on the fly, sometimes without success.

Pollock

Pollock are widely distributed along the UK coastline, including London. These fish can grow to substantial sizes and offer an exhilarating fight on fly fishing tackle. While they can be caught using light tackle, there’s also a chance of hooking a large Pollock from the shore.

Carp

Carp are stocked in specific areas around London, primarily in private or controlled fisheries that may require a fishing license. Tourists can potentially obtain day tickets for these waters, allowing them to pursue Carp in London’s urban fishing spots.

Best Flies For London

When fishing around London, you have access to an assortment of fly shops to enhance your angling experience. In this section, I’ve curated a list of my favorite fly picks to help you make the most of your fishing adventures in the area.

Dry Flies

In this section, we will discuss the best dry flies to fish in London.

• Aero Hawthorne: Late spring and early summer, realistic mayfly imitation, light dun and olive colors, selective trout
• CDC Elk: Caddis hatches, buoyant design, natural brown hues, adult caddisflies, irresistible to trout
• CDC Yellow Owl: Evening hatches, yellow body, and wings, imitate emerging mayflies, excellent visibility
• Adams: All-time classic, works well in mixed insect hatches, gray and brown, versatile design
• Parachute Olive: Overcast days, olive mayfly hatches, parachute style, easy to spot, imitates emerging mayflies

Wet Flies

In this section, we will discuss the best-wet flies to fish in London.

• Teal Blue and Silver: Early spring, March Brown hatch, silver body, blue highlights, nymphs of mayflies
• Sooty Olive: Dark-colored aquatic insects, dark olive and black hues, versatile choice, 
• Green Peter: Summer, sedges and green caddisflies, bright green body, red hackle, irresistible to trout
• Blue Winged Olive: Cool, cloudy days, small olive-colored mayflies, realistic imitation, game-changer
• Bibio: Black flies and beetles season, black body, red tag, effective year-round

Streamers

In this section, we will discuss the best streamer flies to fish in London.

• Cormorant Traffic Light: Aggressive trout, small baitfish, red, green, and black colors, powerful strikes
• Muddler Mini: Low-light conditions, resembles various prey items, muddler-style head, enticing surface disturbances
• Nobbler Black: Imitating leeches or large terrestrial insects, dark coloration, streamer profile, attracts predatory fish
• Cats Whisker: Stillwater trout, reservoirs, marabou tail, flashy body, entices big trout
• Stealth Cormorant: Clear waters, cautious trout, subtle coloration, slim profile, imitates small fish

Nymphs

In this section, we will discuss the best nymph flies to fish in London.

• Ronans Brown: Early spring stoneflies, brown and yellow body, resembles aquatic insects
• Hares Ear Olive: General attractor, olive and natural mottled colors, effective year-round
• Prince: Faster-moving waters, flashy appearance, peacock herl body, white wings, draws strikes
• Copper John: Midge and mayfly hatches, trout feeding near the bottom, copper-colored body, weighted design
• Ronans Hotspot: Highly visible pattern, bright hotspot, attracts trout’s attention, rivers and still waters

Saltwater Flies

In this section, we will discuss the best saltwater flies to fish in London.

• Bass Clouser: Bass and saltwater species near coastal areas, bucktail and flashy materials, lifelike baitfish imitation
• Bus Ticket: Sea trout and migratory fish in estuaries, white and chartreuse colors, mimics baitfish, effective
• Sparkle Minnow: Tidal waters, mullet, and seatrout, flashy appearance, minnow-like design, triggers aggressive strikes
• Salty Clouser: Saltwater angling, coastal regions, traditional Clouser design, natural colors, effective for saltwater species
• Gotcha Stealth: Flats fishing, coastal areas, subtle colors, realistic shrimp profile, irresistible to bonefish and flats species

London Fishing Season

London’s prime fly fishing season spans from June through September. In this section, I will provide a breakdown of the species you should target and the corresponding months in and around London.

London Fly Fishing in June

June is an excellent month for fly fishing around London, especially for brown trout. These local waters are teeming with brown trout during this time. In the evenings, you’ll witness a spectacular rise in trout activity. This phenomenon is particularly prominent on warmer nights when numerous insects land on the lakes, creating ideal conditions for trout feeding.

London Fly Fishing in July

July brings a thrilling change as Atlantic salmon have made their way upstream in the rivers, promising an unforgettable fishing experience. These salmon are often still silver from their time in the sea, making them a sought-after catch. Additionally, July offers fantastic opportunities for targeting mackerel and pollock along the coastline.

London Fly Fishing in August

August is a bustling month for fishing across rivers, lakes, and the sea. The warm water temperatures attract a wide variety of fish, with many species migrating inland. Salmon, which have spent some time in the river system, may begin to develop their brownish coloration during this period.

London Fly Fishing in September

September maintains its reputation as a great month for fishing. However, mullet can start dispersing along the coast, so it’s wise to plan your fishing locations accordingly. Additionally, keep in mind that the pike fishing season is just around the corner, adding another exciting dimension to the angler’s calendar.

London Fishing Report

My latest venture to London was met with stormy weather, which isn’t uncommon for England, making it less than ideal for fishing. I embarked on a journey just thirty minutes away from London to a well-stocked trout fishery, where my primary targets were brown and rainbow trout.

Despite the inclement weather, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the peace and tranquility that this location offered, especially given its proximity to such a large and bustling city.

The fishing itself turned out to be quite rewarding, with several trout being landed during a four-hour session. Most of these catches were made using woolly buggers and various small green streamer patterns.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed my recent outing in London and was once again impressed by the kindness of the locals upon my arrival.

Best Fly Shops in London

There are great fly fishing stores in London. In this section, we will discuss some excellent options, highlighting some of the best shops available.

Farlows

• Address: 9 Pall Mall, London, SW1Y 5NP
• Website: https://www.farlows.co.uk/
• Phone Number: 01544 322311

Farlows is one of the leading fly fishing stores in all of London. They have a huge selection of fly fishing gear and a great collection of fly rods in store ready for purchase. 

First Tackle

• Address: 10 Pennine Parade, London, NW2 1NT
• Website: https://www.firsttackle.co.uk/
• Phone Number: 020 8455 7778

First Tackle is a reputable store located in London with excellent online reviews. They boast an impressive collection of fly fishing gear and maintain a well-stocked inventory of flies in-store.

London Fly Fishing Licenses

A rod license is required to fish around London. Adults pay £30 to £45 for an annual license. Juniors (under 18) tend to pay £6 to £10 annually. Seniors (65+) and disabled individuals usually pay £20 to £30 annually. 

However, if you are a tourist, shorter licenses are available, like a single-day pass for £6 to £10 or an eight-day permit for £12 to £20. Prices may vary by location around London and in some instances fees may be required for the specific body of water you are fishing.

FAQs About Fly Fishing in London

In this section, we will address the most frequently asked questions from tourists coming to London for fishing. We aim to provide comprehensive answers that will quickly fulfill your informational needs for your fishing trip here.

Conclusion

London is undoubtedly one of the busiest cities I’ve ever visited, bustling with a diverse array of people, vibrant food markets, shopping centers, restaurants, and attractions. The city has an abundance of experiences to offer, making it a truly dynamic destination.

Furthermore, London serves as an excellent starting point for fly fishing enthusiasts. Whether your goal is to catch trout or pike, London provides a wide variety of opportunities for anglers. The city’s proximity to various water bodies and fishing spots makes it an attractive hub for those seeking diverse fishing experiences.

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