RIVER TEST CHALKSTREAM, LONGSTOCK PARK AND TESTSIDE LAKES

Leckford Estate owns and manages 16 fishing beats on the world famous River Test which runs through the middle of the Estate, with Leckford village to the east and Longstock to the west. The beats are open to fisherman from May to October. We also have two river fed lakes that are available all year round for fishing.

The four full time river keepers strive to keep this exceptional stretch of the River Test in pristine condition and give visiting anglers the true chalkstream experience.

Our beats are surrounded by almost 500 acres of water meadows and reed beds; all of which are included in the Test Valley SSSI. This gives a very special environment in which to cast a Dry Fly to our own reared Brown and Rainbow Trout and see a variety of plants, insects and animals particular to this ecosystem.

With a history of fishing dating back to the 18th century, it has been a place of tranquility and relaxation for many years, where people come to relax and take in the beauty of the villages of Leckford and Longstock and the surrounding countryside..

ABOUT LECKFORD FISHING

The Longstock Fishing Club was based in the village of Longstock in 1809, its members dissolved the club in 1827 when they lost the fishing rights and joined the newly formed Houghton Club in Stockbridge.

The River travels through almost one thousand acres of Water Meadows, which provide a sanctuary for a wide variety of plants and animals. Fishing at Leckford is a truly special experience, a chance to fish the famous River Test surrounded by the unique Chalkstream habitat. Sit quietly on a bench watching for a Trout to rise and you have every chance of seeing Kingfishers, Watervoles and maybe a Hobby catching insects. It is often said that “ there is more to fishing than catching fish” and never has this been more true than at Leckford.

FISHING H.Q

The new Fishing H.Q is positioned at the Farm Shop and Nursery site in Longstock. It provides a central meeting place for Anglers visiting the Estate and gives somewhere to Check the Rules, Sign In and meet with members of the River Keeping Team. To comply with Biosecurity measures, all Anglers should disinfect Boots and Nets before setting off for the Beats, the Foot and Net Dip is sited on the Verandah.

The close proximity to the Farm Shop will enable Anglers to use the Toilet facilities and the Café. There is also the option to order Picnic Hampers for your day on the River or Lake and collect them on the morning you fish. Details are available from the Farm Shop and the H.Q.

Flies and other small items of fishing kit can be purchased.

Up to date information on Fly Hatches, successful Fly Patterns and general points of interest are displayed on the Notice Board.

FISHING CONTACT

The River beats and both Lake venues can be fished as Season Rod- Full or Half and Day Ticket.

The Lakes are also available for Corporate Entertainment.

Please contact us to discuss your individual requirements as we can tailor days to suit any level of experience.

Catering can be arranged through the Farm Shop.

To book please contact:

Fishing Secretary 01264 811305

Fishing Manager 07860 541 933