About Our Rivers

Chalk stream fly fishing in Hampshire UK

Fly Fishing in Hampshire UK

Rivers Test, Itchen & Meon

Interested in flying fishing in Hampshire, UK? Thousands of anglers in the UK are drawn to the sport of fly fishing each year, attracted by the challenge, the connection with nature, and the opportunity for relaxation and reflection. With their historical significance and excellent fishing, the three principal chalk streams in Hampshire, the Test, Itchen Meon Rivers, together with their tributaries, are amongst the most sought after destinations for both novice and experienced anglers.

With its gentle meanders and lush surroundings, the Test offers a quintessentially English setting for fly fishing. The Itchen, though smaller, is equally revered for its challenging yet rewarding fishing. The Meon is oft overlooked, but its seclusion and tranquillity also hide the challenge of a smaller river.

Chalk Stream Fly Fishing in Hampshire UK

Chalk streams are amongst some of the rarest habitats in the world. Predominantly found in England, these rivers are renowned for their crystal-clear, mineral-rich waters, steady flow, and cool, stable temperatures. These exceptional conditions provide the perfect habitat for trout, grayling and Atlantic salmon. The chalk stream salmon, has recently been classified as a subspecies of wild Atlantic salmon, but sadly, along with its northern cousins, its survival is in the balance.

The chalk stream habitats of the Test, Itchen and Meon rivers support a rich diversity of aquatic life. Their clear waters, steady flow, and high levels of dissolved minerals create a unique ecosystem that sustains an abundance of invertebrates, the primary food source for trout. This makes these rivers prime locations for dry fly fishing, where the challenge lies in mimicking these insects on the water’s surface.