Did you know that you can fish at our Langford Lakes nature reserve? The Wylye is one of England's finest chalk streams. This two-thirds of a kilometre stretch is part of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's Langford Lakes nature reserve and provides fishing for wild brown trout in spring and summer, and grayling in summer, autumn and winter. A great place to relax and take in the tranquil surroundings!

We aim to manage the river as a sustainable wild fishery. The fishing is 'catch and release' only, and no stocking takes place. Instead, conditions for wild fish are encouraged. Diversity has been enhanced by adding groynes, current deflectors and riffles. These provide better feeding and spawning opportunities for fish and provide a diverse habitat for other wildlife.

The fishing is often challenging where there are low branches (which are part of the habitat for fish and fly life). Access is best afforded by wading (permitted until 30 November) but beware of a few deep hollows. 

There are toilets on site and there is ample parking on the reserve. 

To book, call 01380 725670 or email: [email protected]

Langford Lakes Fishing map

Rules of Fishing at Langford Lakes nature reserve

  1. The ticket issued entitles the holder to fish the river only, not the lakes. 
  2. Two rods maximum are permitted on any one day. 
  3. You must use barbless hooks or hooks with flattened barbs. 
  4. Catch and release only - all fish caught are to be returned unharmed to the river. No, keepnets are allowed.
  5. All litter and line must be taken away after fishing. 
  6. No wading in the river after 1st December (see table) to protect spawning salmon and trout. 
  7. See table for restrictions on flies and bait according to season. 
  8. 'Natural' baits (maggots, worm etc) can be used only from 1 December to 14 March. No ground baiting.
  9. Payment for a permit to fish is considered to be acceptance of these rules. 
  10. At the end of the day, please complete the catch return provided. This is for monitoring purposes, and nil returns are also required. 

Wading and access

Wading is recommended at the permitted times but take care. Beware of variations in depth and unseen obstacles. There is no wading in the weir pool where the water is very deep and can be turbulent. Keep out of the fenced area at the weir. In times of flood, wading or access generally may be disallowed for safety reasons. 

Fishing is undertaken entirely at the angler's own risk.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust accepts no responsibility for vehicles or property, or for personal injury suffered while using the premises or its facilities.  

To book, call 01380 725670 or email: [email protected]

Directions

Langford Lakes is 1/2 a mile off the A36, eight miles west of Salisbury and two miles from the A303.

Turn off the A36 to 'The Langfords'. By the church, turn south onto Duck Street, signposted for 'Hanging Langford'. Langford Lakes is the first turning on the left just after the bridge across the River Wylye. 

Please park in the main car park opposite Fishery Cottage. 

The map shows the route of the riverside path. This path is not open to visiting public, except for the East Clyffe beat. 

Langford Lakes, Duck Street, Steeple Langford, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 4PA

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust works in partnership with the Salmon and Trout Association, Wild Trout Trust,
 Wiltshire Fishery Association, Game Conservancy Trust, Environment Agency and Natural England.