Dolgau Beat

River level

The lowdown

• This is classic Upper Wye country in Powys, with a mix of single-bank and double-bank fishing. The single bank is above the bridge, while below it you can fish both banks.
• There’s about a mile of water to explore, with several proper salmon pools tucked into the beat. Bank fishing is available along most pools, so there’s plenty to get stuck into.
• The riverbed is a mix of bedrock and gravel. That gives the water a lovely varied feel, but some pools are extremely deep, so don’t go charging in while wading.
• Wading opens up extra water, especially where the bank doesn’t quite give you the line you want. Felt and studded soles are recommended for a steadier footing.
• The Upper Wye is particularly noted for its grayling. Late summer and early autumn can produce specimen fish of 50cm or more, which is a pretty serious bit of sport.
• Salmon fishing is generally best later in the season, with the beat’s classic pools offering the kind of water salmon anglers will want to pick apart carefully.
• It’s fly fishing only, keeping things nicely focused. Work the pools methodically, cover the creases and seams, and make the most of the extra water wading can open up.
• Parking is roughly 35 metres from the river, with maintained access from the parking area. Handy enough, so there’s no massive faff getting tackle down to the bank.
• The beat is capped at four tickets per day, helping keep things from feeling rammed. All fishing is catch-and-release, and dogs aren’t allowed on the fishery.
• The beat operates a wash-off policy. Give kit a proper clean before and after fishing, particularly when moving between waters.

Methods: Fly fishing only. Fish the deeper pools and seams carefully, with wading giving access to additional water; take extra care over the deep sections.

Access & tickets

Tickets are marketed through The Wye & Usk Foundation’s Fishing Passport. A maximum of four tickets can be sold per day.

Fish the club names

trout, pike, barbel, catfish, zander

Key rules

• Catch-and-release applies to all species.
• Fly fishing only.
• Dogs are not allowed.
• The beat operates a wash-off policy.
• Maximum of four tickets can be sold per day.
• Some pools are extremely deep, so care is required when wading.
• Felt and studded soles are recommended.
• Professional guides must book a rod for themselves as well as for clients.

Where it is