If you like large strong rainbows then Avington Fishery in Hampshire, fed by the iconic river Itchen is the perfect place to visit. Gilly Bate, Fly Odyssey UK Director and fishing guide has been looking after corporate clients and private fishermen for around 10 years at the fishery and highly recommends Avington for its professional approach and high level of service. From solitary fishermen to large groups, the fishery delivers exceptional days.
Fin perfect, feisty specimen rainbows patrol the three large, gin clear lakes in the bucolic Hampshire countryside. This is sight fishing with plenty of fish taking off the top and nymphing just under the surface. The banks are mown and there is easy back casting in the majority of places with seats positioned for a well deserved rest from the action. Fish range from 4 lb up to 20 lb in the lakes and they fight hard.
‘Six long hours spent patiently stalking a monster brown trout finally paid off for Marc Ruddle when he landed a new Avington Trout Fishery record brown trout weighing 22lb 8oz. The brownie, affectionately nicknamed ‘Jack’ by fishery staff, was tempted from Lake Three at the Itchen Abbas, Hampshire venue.’
There is also a delightful carrier running the length of the lakes holding spotty wild browns and grayling.
The onsite tackle shop sells everything that you would need for your day of fishing including snacks and soft drinks. There is also a well equipped weighing, gutting and filleting room and hands on advice from the staff members. Fishermen may buy a day rod or half day and the venue is extremely popular for corporate days. All equipment may be hired from the tackle shop and fish can be packed and filleted ready to take home at the end of the day.
Groups start the day with a cooked breakfast on arrival then each guest is fully loaded with equipment for their day of fly fishing. Mid morning drinks are delivered around the lakes to thirsty fishermen by quad bike and caught fish collected and returned to the weighing room for collection later. Lunch is usually a social affair with a lakeside BBQ in the well appointed fishing lodge with licenced bar. The day normally finishes with afternoon tea and very happy fishermen.
