Discover some of the finest river fishing in the UK, from salmon-rich Scottish beats to coarse-fishing havens in England and Wales. We’ve included booking links for day-ticket swims so you can plan your next trip with ease.
This iconic Scottish river is celebrated as one of Western Europe’s best salmon rivers. Premier beats like Islamouth and Taymount offer world-class salmon angling from late spring to early autumn. Access is via estate-permits, often requiring advance booking with private beat operators.
Running through scenic limestone cliffs, the Wye is a firm favourite for coarse species such as chub, grayling, bream, and barbel. The Stretch at Symonds Yat offers day tickets at around £10, bookable through the Hereford DAA and selected tackle shops.
Book a day ticket (Hereford DAA)
This legendary barbel pool offers powerful fishing and often produces prolific catches. Collingham Weir is managed by Collingham AA, where enthusiastic anglers can expect a challenge in strong currents and rewarding results.
Known for its excellent chub and big perch, this section of the Soar is a peaceful fishing venue. Day tickets (around £5) are sold via Loughborough Soar Angling Society and local tackle shops like Soar Tackle.
This intimate stretch of the Nidd is popular with mixed-fish anglers, offering chub, roach, dace, and perch. Controlled by York & District Angling Association, day permits can be bought online.
The Brue delivers excellent coarse fishing with stocks including chub, dace, roach, bream, tench, perch and trout in upper reaches. Tickets are available via Glaston Manor Angling Association.
The tidal reaches around Padstow and Wadebridge are known for sea trout and flounder fishing. Managed by Wadebridge anglers’ syndicates, permits are required and often limited.
One of England’s most famous chalk streams, the Itchen is revered for its clear water and trout fishing. Sections between Wharf Mill and City Mill in Winchester do not require a permit—perfect for free fly fishing anglers seeking wild brown trout and grayling
Flowing into Whitby Harbour, the Esk offers both rod fishing and boating opportunities. Local associations provide fishing access to approximately eight miles of bank water. Permits are generally required via Esk Fishery Association.
– Species diversity: target everything from trout and grayling to barbel and salmon.
– Landscape & access: many spots offer picturesque settings, easy car or train access, and well-managed swims.
– Value for anglers: day tickets are affordable (£5–£12), especially for coarse fishing.
– Booking is straightforward: many venues allow online or mail-in booking via clubs or estates.
– Check season dates: Salmon and trout seasons open at different times.
– Buy tickets in advance: Popular beats sell out quickly—especially in summer.
– Follow catch rules: Some waters are catch-and-release only or have conservation limits.
– Respect local regulations: Carry a valid rod licence (England & Wales) or landowner permit.