Fishing in Berkshire

Berkshire, nestled in the heart of southeast England, is an angler’s paradise, offering diverse fishing opportunities amidst its scenic landscapes. From pristine chalk streams teeming with trout to serene lakes brimming with carp, Berkshire caters to all levels of experience and interests. The county’s rich waterways provide a unique blend of fishing venues, including tranquil rivers, historic canals, and modern fisheries, which are perfect for pleasure anglers who want to enjoy the quiet countryside.

Coarse Fishing

For fishing enthusiasts, Berkshire boasts several recommended Berkshire fisheries that promise both enjoyment and a chance at landing impressive catches. The picturesque Avon Canal and the well-stocked Royal Berkshire Fishing Lakes are two prime examples of the fantastic fishing opportunities available in this beautiful county.

The Avon Canal, known as the Kennet and Avon Canal, meanders through the lush Berkshire countryside, offering miles of uninterrupted fishing opportunities. Home to various coarse fish species, such as bream, roach, tench, and perch, the canal provides anglers a peaceful and relaxing experience, surrounded by nature’s beauty and is perfect for day ticket fishing with plenty of car parking along its bank.

Royal Berkshire Fishery is a renowned fishing venue that caters to anglers of all skill levels. With multiple well-maintained lakes on-site, this fishery offers diverse species, including carp, tench, and bream. The serene environment and dedicated swims at Royal Berkshire Fishery make it an ideal location for a coarse fishing day, whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner.

Finch Farm Fishery, located in the picturesque countryside of Berkshire, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a peaceful and well-stocked venue. This charming fishery features three well-maintained lakes catering to various fishing preferences, including coarse, carp, and catfish angling. The lakes teem with fish species such as carp, tench, roach, bream, and even Wels catfish, providing ample opportunities for anglers to land impressive catches. With its tranquil setting, diverse species, and comfortable facilities, Finch Farm Fishery is a delightful retreat for both seasoned and novice anglers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and excitement of Berkshire’s fishing scene.

With a wealth of fishing venues, stunning landscapes, and abundant fish species, Berkshire is a true angling haven. Whether you are looking to target specific species or enjoy a relaxing day by the water,

Carp Fishing Lakes In Berkshire

There are loads of excellent carp fishing lakes in Berkshire. We will now review a few of the ones we recommend you try.

Wraysbury Lakes: Wraysbury Lakes is renowned as a top Carp Fishery in the UK. The complex consists of three lakes: Wraysbury 1, Wraysbury 2, and South Lake. Wraysbury 1 is a great carp lake, famous for its historic carp, with some specimens reaching up to 50lbs. The lake features many islands, bays, and gravel bars, providing various angling opportunities. Wraysbury 2 and South Lake also offer excellent carp fishing, with a fine stock of carp up to 40lbs in these waters. It is one of the best carp fisheries in the country.

Washing Fisheries: Wasing fishery is a picturesque venue near Reading, featuring two lakes and a chalk stream river. The Old and New Lakes contain a good head of carp, with some reaching up to 40lbs. The venue is also known for its specimen pike, with fish reaching 27lbs. The beautiful surroundings, well-maintained swims, and a diverse range of species make this venue a popular choice for anglers.

Dinton Pastures Country Park: Located near Reading, Dinton Pastures Country Park offers a range of waters for carp fishing. One of the most notable lakes in the park is White Swan Lake, known for its sizable carp, with fish regularly caught over 30lbs. This carp lake features a range of swims and depths, providing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Other lakes within the park, such as Black Swan Lake and Lavells Lake, also offer carp fishing opportunities.

Night Fishing

Seven Lakes: Night fishing is available at Seven Lakes throughout the year. Go on their website and register to get yourself a ticket.

Fly Fishing

Trout fishing is a popular in Berkshire, with brown trout (Salmo trutta) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) found in the region. Here are some notable locations and tips for trout fishing in Berkshire:

River Kennet: The River Kennet is one of the most famous chalk streams in the UK and is home to a thriving population of brown trout. It is a tributary of the River Thames. The river is managed by several fishing clubs and organizations, which often offer day tickets or memberships. Some well-known spots along the Kennet include the Denford Fishery, Padworth Mill, and Barton Court.

River Lambourn: Another chalk stream, the River Lambourn is a tributary of the River Kennet and is known for its crystal-clear waters and healthy population of wild brown trout. Access to the Lambourn can be obtained through fishing clubs, such as the Newbury Angling Association.

Stillwater fisheries: Berkshire also offers several stillwater trout fisheries, providing opportunities for anglers to target rainbow and brown trout. Some popular fisheries include:

Felix Farm Trout Fishery: Felix Farm Trout fishery is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of London for a day. It’s just a 30-minute drive away from Thames Valley, providing great fishery services for all anglers.

Sportfish Game Centre: Sportfish is angling heaven for both beginners and experienced fishermen, set on sprawling 45 acres of gorgeous countryside in the Berkshire region.

Barn Elms Fly Fishery: Barn Elms Fly Fishery is the perfect place to experience fly fishing, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Each week the lakes are stocked with Rainbow, Brown, Blue and Gold trout with high-quality energy. There is also ample parking.

Fishing Clubs in Berkshire

If you want to meet other fishing enthusiasts and learn more about the sport, joining a fishing club is great. Berkshire has plenty of great fishing clubs that cater to all experience levels.

NameAddressWebsiteFB
Barton Court FisheryEast Lodge, Kintbury, Hungerford. Berkshire RG17 9SA UKFB
Reading & District Angling Association19 Conifer Drive Long Lane; Tilehurst Reading Berkshire RG31 6YU UKWebsiteFB
Southlake Angling Society181 Wokingham Rd, Earley, Reading RG6 1LT UKWebsiteFB

Reading and District Angling Association: RDAA offers excellent fishing for an affordable price that will please any angler. Their more giant lakes are home to carp, bream, tench, and roach competing for the record catch, while many of our other smaller pools also produce sizable catches regularly. 

Farnham Angling Society: Farnham Angling Society offers a wide variety of still waters, including picturesque estate lakes, large gravel pits, and small ponds. With over 160 acres of Stillwater fishing and 7 miles of river fishing, there is something for everyone.

Fishing Shops in Berkshire

Berkshire has plenty of great fishing shops if you need supplies or want to chat with other anglers.

We have put together a list of Berkshire fishing shops here.