Grayling Fishing at Wherwell (on Test)

Saturday 11th - Sunday 12th Oct 2014

Wherwell Lodge

Wherwell Lodge

Eight members and three guests spent a thoroughly enjoyable weekend at Wherwell. We were in the capable hands of Hugh O’Reilly and his wife Eileen. Eileen fed us a huge English breakfast and lunch each day and kept us well supplied with tea and coffee. Hughie was happy to give us advice on fishing the various beats regarding tactics and flies. I know that we all appreciated the effort that they put in to making our trip so enjoyable.

Wherwell 6

On the Saturday the rain cleared and as the mist lifted we had sunny intervals and it got quite warm mid afternoon. Lunch time saw an exchange of views regarding the different beats and where fish were lying. Fishing ended at 18:00 and most people had caught fish either browns or grayling. As most had come for the grayling there was some disappointment that “I only caught browns” but Sunday was still to come and todays experience will help.

Early evening on Beat 5

Early evening on Beat 5

After settling into the Travel Lodge for the night we went off to the Furze Bush Inn for yet another meal. Trying to find a light snack proved impossible but the food was excellent. The Lasagna FBI Special caused some discussion as to whether it was a secret American recipe until it was point out that it was the name of the Inn! There was also a Cheddar Brewery ale on tap called Gorge Best! – the pun to end all puns. We retired to the bar for a night cap and a few fisherman’s tales and after a very enjoyable evening back to the Travel Lodge.

Furze Bush Inn

Furze Bush Inn

After Eileen’s breakfast on the Sunday it was back on the grayling trail. Cloudy and cooler today but still a grand day to fish on such superb water. The morning proved productive for most and all were ready for Roast Lunch. Hughie was offering advice to those still looking for their grayling and was happy to spend some time on the river giving instruction. It grew cooler late on and the rain started around 16:30, by then most were making their way back to the lodge. Everybody caught fish, the weather was kind and the company great, ticks all boxes!.

A wonderful experience which should be (must be) repeated next year so get your names in quickly!