Chilham Mill Stretch – River Great Stour

River level

The lowdown

• This is clear, flowing chalk-stream water near Chilham, with plenty of aquatic plants adding a proper natural feel.
• The River Stour forms the southern boundary of the estate, then keeps running through the property alongside several small tributaries.
• There’s a mix of water to get your eye in on. Deep pools are noted for sea trout, while the shallower streams hold brown trout.
• Brownies are both wild and stocked. The estate says the stretch will be stocked regularly with hard-fighting brown trout too.
• It’s very much a fly-fishing venue rather than a coarse-fishing sort of place. Think fly rod, careful wading decisions and working the glides and pools.
• The estate describes the fishing as among the best chalk-stream fly fishing in south-east England, so this is one for anglers who fancy a more focused session.
• Chilham Mill itself is a historic mill on an island in the Great Stour, and the wider setting has long had an angling connection.
• The fishery has recently come under the estate’s control. Fishing isn’t something to just turn up and wing; it must be arranged with the estate first.
• Four syndicate membership places were stated to be available when checked. That’s the main route into the fishing, with no ordinary day-ticket offer confirmed.
• The website doesn’t set out a peg count, bank-by-bank access, parking details, night-fishing policy or full rule list, so get the latest arrangements before making the trip.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Fly fishing is the name of the game here, working the shallow streams, glides and deeper pools for brown trout and sea trout. The clear chalk-stream character calls for a tidy, considered approach rather than a heavy feeder-style setup.

Access & tickets

Fishing enquiries should be made with Vince Leader via leader@chilhammillestate.co.uk or info@chilhammillestate.co.uk. The published telephone number is 07748 767882; four membership places were stated to be available when checked.

Fish the club names

trout

Key rules

• Fishing is exclusive fly fishing.
• Fishing must be arranged with Chilham Mill Estate before attending.
• Syndicate membership is available for access.
• Relevant Environment Agency rod-licence requirements apply.
• The published website does not provide a full set of fishery rules, so confirm current arrangements with the estate.

Where it is