It is no secret that the chalkstreams of England are the holy grail of trout fly fishing. Not only do they offer world-class trout fishing in the UK, they are also the very birthplace of fly fishing itself. Just as Wimbledon defines tennis, St Andrews shapes golf, and Lordβs epitomizes cricket, the chalkstreams are the crucible where upstream dry fly fishing and nymphing techniques were forged.
The crystal-clear waters and bright gravel beds that define these rivers are teeming with wild trout β fish that are as wily as they are beautiful. Fishing the chalkstreams demands a level of finesse unmatched in any other discipline of the sport. Combined with a deep understanding of entomology, fish behaviour, and watercraft, upstream dry fly fishing on the chalkstreams is nothing short of an art form.
Mastering these skills takes days to learn, years to refine, and a lifetime to perfect. So enthralling is the journey that many guides and river keepers have devoted their lives to the chalkstreams of the UK.Β
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Just like the ghillies of Scotland, Iceland, and Norway, or guides of Alaska, Montana, and Wyoming, there is no one who knows their river more intimately than those who live and breathe it. The UK chalkstreams are no exception.
A fly fishing guide comes fully equipped with tackle, flies, and expert knowledge for your trip β but their value goes far beyond equipment. They possess an encyclopedic understanding of everything the chalkstreams have to offer: the insects, the seasonal fly life, the behaviour of wild brown trout, and even the best local pubs for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you are sight fishing on a tiny headwater stream or casting a long line on the sweeping River Test, your guide will provide the insights and tips that could make all the difference to your day.
For these reasons and many more, we always recommend taking a guided fly fishing trip on the chalkstreams, whether you are a seasoned angler or discovering this extraordinary sport for the first time. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the timeless tradition of UK trout fishing.
I have spent many happy years as a fly fishing guide, riverkeeper, and fishing agent on the UK chalkstreams, and Iβm delighted to now offer private guided fly fishing trips in my home county of Hampshire and across the southern chalkstreams.
Having fished almost all of these iconic rivers, including the legendary River Test, I can recommend the best waters for your skill level, whether you are a seasoned chalkstream angler or discovering UK trout fishing for the first time.
On the day of your trip, I will come fully equipped with all tackle, flies, waders, and equipment. I can meet you at the river, collect you from your accommodation, or pick you up from the train station β whichever is most convenient. Cigars and light refreshments are included, and for lunch you can enjoy a riverside picnic or a visit to a local pub.
To learn more about my services and book a guided chalkstream fly fishing trip, please get in touch. I look forward to helping you experience an unforgettable day on some of Englandβs most iconic rivers!
My love for fishing began in my childhood, casting for mackerel and bass with my dad in the Exe estuary, then for trout across Devonβs rivers and lakes.
While he was always the sailor, I was drawn to freshwater β the peaceful flow of rivers and the thrill of chasing wild brown trout. As a boy, I spent every spare moment exploring the River Exe, cycling miles with a rod strapped to my bike, crafting floats from goose quills, and learning the art of angling firsthand. That early obsession grew into a lifelong calling.
When I discovered the chalkstreams of Hampshire, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to these crystal-clear chalkstreams. Today, as a fly fishing guide and river keeper in Hampshire, I share my passion for chalkstream fly fishing and conservation β helping others to experience the beauty, challenge, and serenity of Englandβs most iconic trout rivers.
βJamie was once again amazing. He went over and beyond to help me, he was patient and I had a wonderful time. He exceeded my expectations!β
βThanks again for your expert tuition and experience last week β it was very much appreciated both by our guests, as well as us.β
Iβm a tea, coffee, and custard creams man.
Octopus or a good ribeye steak, medium rare!
I have been to New Zealand, so Alaska.
Up close and personal sight fishing.
A size 16 Olive Klinkhammer.
The Dever, a tap-clear tributary on the upper River Test.
I have many but hold a gun to my head and Iβll say FM Halford!
Where the Bright Waters Meet – Harry Plunket Green.
It has to be the day we brought 10 enormous Blue Fin Tuna to my friendβs boat off the coast of our very own Devon shores.
Watching a big old wily trout finally slurp up my clientβs fly, and thunder off beneath the surface when they lift up into the perfect strike.
Brown Trout: 01 April – 30 October
Grayling: 16 June – 14 March
All Year Round 365
We will send you a full booking confirmation by email, along with any maps, directions, travel arrangements, and arrival instructions required, plus the contact information for your Guide.
Our guides will come equipped with all the tackle, equipment and flies required at no extra cost.
We suggest bringing a picnic or if you prefer, we can take you to the local pub. For something special, our delightful range of riverside hampers are also available to preorder.
The million dollar question! Of course it depends on the season, but generally we suggest a good mix of dry flies and nymphs in the S14 β S16 range. Your fishing guide will come with all the flies required for your day, but if you would like to bring your own, our boxes will always feature a generous pinch of Blue Winged Olives, Parachute Adamsβ, Sawyers Pheasant Tail Nymphs, and Peeping Caddis.
Your fishing guide will come fully equipped with all the tackle and equipment required, but if you have your heart set on using your own, we suggest a rod in the 3 to 5 weight range, paired with an arbor reel, and a floating fly line. It is also wise to carry a pouch of tapered leaders in the 9ft to 12ft / 4x to 6x range to cover all basis.
Gratuity is not obligatory, but always very much appreciated. As a guideline, 10% to 15% of your guide fee is a good starting point.Β Β
Sadly, we cannot cancel or postpone your booking under any circumstances. However, if you are unable to attend your day, please let us know at your earliest convenience and we will endeavour to resell the booking for you. If we are successful, you will be eligible for a credit to the full value of your booking, valid for 24 months, or a refund minus a 25% admin fee.
Charter the chalkstreams in style and come equipped with one of our top of the line tackle outfits. Simply pick one of our bespoke chalkstream tackle packs; the Halford, the Walton, or the Greene, and let us do the rest!
