River Test (Romsey)

River level

The lowdown

• The fishery runs bridge to bridge, and fishing is allowed from all banks along that section.
• All islands are in play too, giving you a few different angles on the water. The far bank is reachable from the car park via the bridge or islands.
• There’s also access to the far bank from the downstream lay-by. Handy, but don’t go tramping through gardens — that’s specifically off limits.
• The cottage garden is excluded, so leave that bit well alone and stick to the recognised access points.
• This is a clear chalk-stream reach, so expect classic Test-style water rather than a big, pushy river. Look for steady glides and changes in pace around the islands and bridge areas.
• The water holds carp, grayling, roach, chub, perch, dace, pike, eels and gudgeon. A proper mixed bag, with plenty to keep you interested.
• There are only three tickets available per day, and every member has to book individually for each date. Don’t just turn up on the off chance — the club says not to visit unless you’re booked.
• Fishing is from dawn to dusk, with the stated season running from 1 November to 14 March. The annual night-fishing ticket is listed separately at £40.
• Keep it tidy and careful: barbless hooks only, no wading, no spinning, and every fish must be returned. Salmon and trout must be returned too.
• Watch out for the overhead power cables. They’re a stated hazard, so keep rods down and give them plenty of respect.

Methods: This is bank fishing only, with no wading or spinning allowed. A careful float or feeder approach suits the mixed coarse-fish water, while barbless hooks and full catch-and-release rules apply.

Access & tickets

You need to be a member and book the River Test date in advance. Bookings require your member number and date of birth, then a combination-lock code is issued for the booked angler.

Fish the club names

carp, roach, chub, perch, pike, eel

Key rules

• Tickets must be booked in advance, with only three available per day.
• Members must book individually for each fishing date.
• No guest tickets are allowed.
• No spinning.
• No wading.
• Fishing is from dawn to dusk, with the stated season from 1 November to 14 March.
• Barbless hooks only.
• All fish must be returned, including salmon and trout. Do not access the river through gardens.

Where it is