A world-class destination for trout fly fishing, Rutland Water regularly plays host to top-level international angling competitions. Don’t be intimidated though – absolute beginners are welcome, and experienced anglers are always happy to share their wisdom.
The largest man-made body of water in the country, Rutland Water is one of the best places in the UK to go fishing by bank or boat. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or you’re just getting started, this huge expanse of water is well-maintained, easily accessible and a joy to explore.
You can access boats, permits, tackle and tuition at Rutland Water Fishing Lodge at Normanton, where staff (and friendly local regulars!) are well equipped to give advice on the fishing and all aspects of Rutland. Once you’ve stocked up at the tackle shop, you can pop to the Waterside Café above the lodge if you’re in need of refreshment.
Rutland Water can be easily sliced into three distinct areas, North Arm, South Arm and Main Basin, which is often how competition anglers would divide the lake when practising for competitions. A general rule is to fish the North Arm early and late in the season, and the South Arm during the late spring and early summer before the water temperature gets too warm.
Trout Fishing
Trout Fishing can take place from both bank and boat until 31 January each year.
Rutland Water has an excellent reputation internationally for trout fishing. Here’s why:
- The large water area combined with natural food mean that Brown Trout live longer here, so they get much bigger. While 10lb is considered an achievable catch, the record catch is a whopping 17lb!
- A catch is generally 95% rainbow trout and 5% brown trout.
- 70k trout is stocked each year at 2lb.
- Founded in 1978, Rutland Water Fly Fishers has 150+ members, and hosts regular events and competitions.
- Rutland Water Fishing Lodge has 65 boats in its fleet, including a Wheelyboat that is accessible for wheelchair users.
Predator Fishing
Over the autumn and winter months, Rutland Water opens up to Predator Fishing [boats only] with lures for pike, perch and the elusive zander.
- Fly fishing: 1 May – 31 January
- Lure fishing: 1 September – 31 January
- Sea deadbait: 1 October – 31 January
Anyone is welcome to fish Rutland on a day ticket or a season ticket. Season ticket holders receive free parking, tackle discounts and can enjoy unlimited visits to the fisheries through the season.
Follow the link to book your boat and check the latest fishing reports at www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk/rutland-water-park/fishing
Fishing Courses and Holidays
Rutland Water host courses in fly-fishing and boat handling, designed to build your skills and confidence on the water. Set against one of the country’s most renowned fisheries, you’ll learn essential techniques in a supportive and inspiring environment. As a new angler, you’ll also enjoy exclusive benefits, including discounts on selected season tickets for two seasons, special tackle offers, and access to a dedicated beginner’s day ticket if you’re not quite ready to commit to a full season. It’s the ideal way to get started, improve quickly, and become part of our thriving angling community.
The fly-fishing boat packages offer fantastic value for those looking to spend 3 or more consecutive days here, an ideal reason to book Rutland as your next getaway.
Fishing Clubs
Joining a local club or coming along to one of their gatherings as a visitor offers a valuable opportunity to learn more about the local area, improve your technique, and glean valuable tips from fellow anglers.
Rutland Water Fly Fishers (RWFF) is a great local club, which offers support, events, and a real sense of community. Tim Lawson (Club Chairman) is always happy to welcome new faces. The RWFF website rwff.org.uk is a treasure trove of information, and even provides the following downloadable resources free of charge:
- Rutland Water Maps
- Rutland Water Bank Anglers’ Guide
- Rutland Water Boat Anglers’ Guide
Members of RWFF are given free printed copies of both guides which can be collected at members evenings and events. Produced and published by Friends of Rutland Water, they provide tips from experienced anglers along with full descriptions of the different areas of the reservoir, they’re sure to help readers quickly understand how to fish this beautiful reservoir.
Why not come along to one of RWFF’s winter meetings, which run from October until March. The Winter Meeting Programme comprises a brilliant mix of talks, demonstrations, and good company at Empingham Cricket Club (from 7:30pm, with a bar and usually a buffet too!). Guests are welcome to pay £5 on the night, or better yet, you could join the club for £20.
Beyond Rutland Water
In addition to the man-made and mighty reservoir, Rutland is home to four rivers (Eye Brook, River Chater, River Welland, River Gwash) and boasts a variety of still-water and river fishing spots for visiting and local anglers.
Anglers can enjoy open coarse fishing at Stretton Lakes on a day ticket basis, from dawn until dusk, all year round. An idyllic setting surrounded by woodland and open farmland, fishing is free for guests staying on site and at Victory Cottage in the quiet village of Cottesmore nearby. If you’d like to make the most of the peace and tranquillity by staying on site, accommodation is available in luxury log cabins as well as in a 5* touring park set around the beautiful fishing lakes.
