We invite you to visit us in the heart of Wessex chalk stream country to fish the fabled waters of the Rivers Test and Itchen—surely some of the finest dry fly fishing in the UK.

Chalk stream dry fly fishing is the ultimate fishing experience and the prime beats of these rivers are highly coveted. Much of the fishing is in the hands of private syndicates and there is comparatively little 'day ticket' fishing available. At Orvis, we are fortunate to actually own two beats ourselves and also offer fishing on a selection of other exclusive stretches. Trust in our 30 years of experience to help you find the right fishing with the very best local guides.

We are accepting enquiries for bookings in the 2022 season.

Please contact us directly on sportingadventures@orvis.co.uk , or call Sporting Adventures at 01264 349515.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Our procedure for booking our river beats for the day are as follows: (1) To reserve a day on one of our beats, please call Sporting Adventures on 01264 349515, and we will be delighted to discuss the correct beat according to your requirements and ability; (2) We require at least two-days notice, but prefer a week, subject to beat and Guide availability; (3) All bookings will be confirmed in writing.

Payment

Payment for our fly-fishing trips is required 14 days prior to the day booked, by valid credit card or cheque.

Cancellations

Cancellation in good time gives other clients the chance to fish. All cancellations must be made one month in advance to guarantee no charge. Orvis reserves the right to charge up to the full amount for late cancellations of our fly-fishing schools and trips. A 50% refund will be given if cancellations are made 14 days prior. We will, however, treat each instance fairly, based on late cancellations of our fly-fishing schools, day lettings or trips.

Meeting

Generally, we ask you to meet your Guide at our shop in Stockbridge at 9 a.m., where he will be happy to give you advice on suitable terminal tackle, such as tippet, leaders and flies for the beat you are fishing. However, alternative meeting arrangements may be made with prior agreement.

Environment Agency Rod Licence

The responsibility for obtaining this (non-migratory trout) licence is the liability of each individual fisherman. These can be bought for a day, month, or annually, and can be obtained at any Post Office, or directly from the Environmental Agency website .
Important: It is a legal requirement to be in possession of a valid EA licence before you commence fishing.

Dogs

We would request that you do not bring your animals for the day, as this can create difficult situations on the riverbank.

The Guide

Our Guides combine the role of gillie, qualified instructor, amiable companion and riverside valet, their joint knowledge would be the envy of any trout fisherman. Your Guide is there to assist you as much or as little as you may require. He will help you set up your tackle and generally advise you what flies are suitable for the particular beat. Our guides normally accompany you between 9.00am and 6pm. If you want to fish on into the evening, please just let the fishing department know when you book.

Fishing Course Bookings

These can be made through Sporting Adventures, who will be able to guide you to the correct course according to your ability and requirements. A deposit will be required for each booking as a confirmation of your booking. All cancellations must be made one month prior to date of advertised course to guarantee no charge (see cancellations). Please contact Sporting Adventures on 01264 349515 or email sportingadventures@orvis.co.uk to make your booking.

The Non-Fisherman

If members of your family do not fish, they are certain to find the area charming and fun to explore. The area offers excellent sight seeing: Danebury with its Iron Age fortress, and Stonehenge with its mysterious standing stones; the cathedrals at Salisbury and Winchester; the Norman Abbey at Romsey, and great houses such as Wilton and Broadlands.