How to Go Trout Fishing in Wales

Wales has around 15,000 miles of running water, with wild brown trout in most rivers and sea trout, known locally as "sewin", in abundance for several months of the year. From lowland lakes to mountain pools, Wales has a wide variety of fishing opportunities, making it the perfect place for a trout fishing holiday.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Select a location. You will find wild brown trout in all the rivers of Wales, except those ending on the far north-east coast. Sea trout can also be found in many of the smaller streams when the water levels are high. There is an excellent search engine on the Fishing Wales website with numerous fisheries in every region.

2. Find a fishery. When you've selected an area, contact a local fishery. Be sure to ask for their rules, as these tend to vary between fisheries.

3. Choose your dates. The sea trout season lasts from early April to September, depending on the area. June is the high season for brown trout.

4. Arrange an instructor or guide to give you advice about your equipment and technique. They can book a guided fishing trip for you, or simply provide coaching for those with more experience.

5. Make your travel plans. The main airports for Wales are in Cardiff and Swansea. If you've engaged a guide, they should be able to advise you of the best place to arrive.

6. Book accommodation. There are plenty of hotels, guesthouses, cottages, B&Bs and self-catering apartments throughout Wales. Your fishing guide may be able to arrange accommodation for you, or you can get suggestions from the Fishing Wales website.

7. Get a fishing licence. Everyone over the age of 12 needs an Environment Agency Rod Licence which you can buy from any post office or licence agent, the Telesales Service on 0870 1662 662 or online at the Environment Agency's Website.

8. Pack your equipment. You will need warm clothing, waterproofs and waders, as well as your rods, reels and flies. You may also want to bring a net, a torch for night fishing and insect repellent to keep the midges and mosquitoes at bay. If you have booked a guide, they may be able to give advice on your equipment.

Tips & Warnings

• The best time to catch sea trout is after dark.
• Children under 12 do not require a Rod Licence.
• Concessionary licences are available for senior citizens and disabled people.
• If you are buying fishing equipment for the trip, it may be cheaper to get a ready-made kit with all the essentials.
• After your trip, complete the Catch Return form attached to your Rod Licence.
• If you get caught fishing without a valid Environment Agency Rod Licence you could be prosecuted, and there's a maximum fine of £2,500.
• Fly fishing is permitted in all fisheries, but there are restrictions on bait fishing and spinning in some areas, so be sure to check the fishery rules.

Resources

• Fishing Wales has all the information you'll need on fishing in Wales including a regional list of fisheries, fishing schools and guides.
• Buy a Rod Licence from the Environment Agency.