Fly fishing in the United Kingdom is a cherished tradition, offering diverse opportunities across its rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Here’s a guide to help you explore fly fishing in the UK:

1. Popular Fish Species

Trout (Brown, Rainbow, Sea Trout)
Salmon (Atlantic Salmon in Scotland and Wales)
Grayling (Known as the "Lady of the Stream")
Pike (Larger waters, often targeted with streamers)
Coastal Species (Bass, Pollock, Mackerel)

2. Best Fly Fishing Locations

England 

River Test & Itchen (Hampshire) – Famous for wild brown trout and dry fly fishing.
River Derwent (Yorkshire & Derbyshire) – Great for wild brown trout and grayling.
Lake District (Cumbria) – Stillwater trout fishing in lakes like Windermere & Ullswater.
Chalkstreams (Southern England) – Exclusive spring-fed rivers with prolific hatches.

Scotland 

River Tay & Tweed – Legendary for Atlantic salmon.
River Spey – Famous for Spey casting and big salmon.
Lochs (Loch Lomond, Loch Leven) – Excellent for wild brown trout and pike.

Wales 

River Wye & Usk – Prime for salmon, trout, and grayling.
Llyn Brenig (North Wales) – A top stillwater trout fishery.

Northern Ireland

River Foyle & River Bann – Renowned for salmon and sea trout.
Lough Erne – Great for wild brown trout and pike.

3. Best Times to Fish

Trout: April–September (Mayfly hatch in late May/June is iconic).
Salmon: Varies by river (spring in Scotland, summer/autumn in England & Wales).
Grayling: Best in winter (October–March).
Sea Trout & Bass: Summer months.

4. Essential UK Fly Fishing Gear

Rods: 9ft 5wt (trout), 7-9wt (salmon/pike), 10ft 3wt (grayling).
Flies:
Dry flies: Adams, CDC Dun, Klinkhåmer
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear (GRHE)
Streamers: Woolly Bugger, Muddler Minnow (for pike/bass)
Salmon flies: Willie Gunn, Ally’s Shrimp, Cascade

Waders & Boots: Essential for river fishing.
License: Required in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (free in Scotland but check permissions).

5. Regulations & Permits

England & Wales: Environment Agency License (Mandatory).
Scotland: No license but private permits needed (e.g., FishPal).
Northern Ireland: DAERA License.
Always check local rules (catch limits, seasons, barbless hooks).

6. Fly Fishing Clubs & Guides

Wild Trout Trust (Conservation & fishing advice).
Game Angling Instructors Association (GAIA) – Certified guides.
Local clubs (e.g., Wye & Usk Foundation, River Dee Trust).

7. Conservation & Etiquette

Catch & Release encouraged for salmon & wild trout.
Respect private waters (many rivers are privately owned).
Use barbless hooks to minimize harm.

Final Tip

The UK offers some of the world’s finest fly fishing, from serene chalkstreams to rugged. Scottish salmon rivers. Hiring a guide can greatly enhance your experience, especially for salmon fishing.
Would you like recommendations for specific rivers or fly patterns? 🎣