April 2026: Early-season trout & grayling report
April 2026: Where trout and grayling are already firing
Overview
Regional keepers across the United Kingdom report encouraging early-season fishing in April 2026. Reservoirs are high and surface temperatures sit at 5–8°C, conditions that favour subsurface tactics for brown trout and grayling (Thymallus thymallus). Dry-fly action remains limited while nymphs and deep presentations are producing reliable sport.
Chalk streams
Southern chalk rivers such as the Test, Hampshire Avon and Wye are producing grayling and early trout in seams and tail-of-pool runs. Target shallow to mid-depth water of 0.3–1.2m with upstream or downstream nymphing. Use tungsten-beaded pheasant tail and hare's ear patterns in sizes 14–18 on a 10–12ft leader, light split shot placed 30–60cm above flies, and long, soft presentations to avoid spooking wary fish.
Lochs and reservoirs
Scottish lochs (Loch Awe, Ness system, Lomond) and upland reservoirs are fishing well from boats. At water temps of 5–8°C trout hold deeper on bars and slopes; target 4–8m with sinking-tip or full-sink lines and weighted tube or blob patterns. Keep drifted or anchored approaches steady, use echo sounder to locate fish marks, and run double-nymph rigs or a single large pattern on a long fluorocarbon leader.
Exact spring-day approach
Begin by confirming 5–8°C surface temps and plan subsurface setups. On chalk streams favour two-fly nymph rigs with small droppers and long leaders; in lochs choose sinking-tip lines, 12–18g leaded flies and slow, pulsed retrieves. For reservoirs launch from sheltered bays where high levels permit easy access. Safety kit, polarised sunglasses and a strong landing net speed play and improve catch survival.
Recommended: portable fishing boat