Posted on 05/05/2016 by David
If you’re a fan of fly fishing, North Wales is the place to be. There are many public lakes on which fly fishing is allowed (though some are registered as private or reserved for scientific study – so, be sure to check first), but there are also many fisheries out there, just waiting for you to let fly.
Your gear is packed, your flies are bright, and your car is fuelled up and ready to go. North Wales and its brilliant fly fishing awaits – but where will you cast your line?
Here are 7 great North Wales fly fishing destinations …
1. Llandegla Fishery
Llandegla Fishery has two trout pools – home to a variety of trout species, including Rainbow, Tiger, Hold and Brown. There is also a natural stock of Rudd – and with recorded catches of up to 15 lbs., Llandegla Fishery is truly a fisherman’s delight. If you’re not a seasoned fisher, there is also a tackle shop on the grounds, where you can rent everything you need – even if you just want to give fishing a go!
2. Cregennan Lakes
Owned by the National Trust, Cregennan Lakes is a beautiful fishing location in an idyllic setting. For those who lead hectic day-to-day lives, Cregennan Lakes is a spot that specialises in peace and quiet. Although both lakes are small, each is frequently restocked with new fish population, so there will always be fish to catch! Fishing starts at 8am and runs until one hour after dusk, so it’s the perfect lake for fishers who love to spend the whole day lakeside, catching as many fish as possible. There is a charge for fishing (details on the website) – but no surcharge on fun!
3. Tan-Y-Mynydd Trout Fishery
Tan-Y-Mynydd offers a variety of fishing pools filled with trout, including Rainbow, weighing up to a whopping 21 lbs. The ‘family’ pool is a multi-method pool allowing for both bait and fly fishing – a great pool for anglers who like to vary their fishing styles. Like Cregennan Lakes, there is a tackle shop on the grounds, but there are also a range of other facilities and services, including seated fishing pegs and tuition (if you need it!) – not to mention free hot drinks.
4. Llyn y Gors, Anglesey
If you’re looking for variety, Llyn y Gors can definitely deliver. With 7 lakes, a tackle shop and 25 acres of land to explore, Llyn y Gors is a place where anglers can spend days and days on end! This lake, located on the isle of Anglesey, also offers designated BBQ areas, so why not bring the whole family along to eat, relax and explore the scenic landscape, whilst you do what you love most – fly fishing!
5. Llyn Trawfyndd, Snowdonia
Llyn Trawsfynydd is a popular fishing lake located in the heart of Snowdonia. Measuring in at 5 miles long, there is plenty of room for all keen fishers! This is a great place for anglers who enjoy different types of fishing; there are banks for bait and fly and separate areas for fly fishing alone. And if you want to have a different fishing experience, there are boats available for hire!
6. Llyn Crafnant, Llanwrst
Located in Llanwrst, nestled in the Gwydyr Forest, this is the perfect setting for a whole day of trout fishing. The surrounding areas are great for a walk, and if you need something to keep you going, the Lakeside Café is open daily for delicious homemade meals. There are even special offers for father and child outings, so tear your son or daughter away from their phone for a day!
7. Rossett and Gresford Fly Fishers' Club
A short distance from Chester and Wrexham, the club has access to nearly 3 miles of the River Alyn. Rising in the Clwydian hills the water flows across limestone making it alkaline and more fertile than most of the rivers in North Wales which tend to be acidic.
Enjoy some of the best grayling and brown trout fishing in the area with day tickets which can be bought online (only 2 visiting anglers' tickets available each day), see their website for more information.
It’s safe to say there are plenty of locations throughout North Wales that are perfect for fly fishing! Why not spend a week in one of our cosy cottages whilst touring the local fisheries and lakes, and, perhaps, try some sea fishing too? Happy angling!