April 2026 Regional Trout & Salmon Reports
April 2026 regional trout & salmon reports — where rivers and reservoirs are firing
Overview
Spring turnover and late spates have put trout and Atlantic salmon on the move across the UK. Southern chalkstreams such as the Test and Hampshire Avon are producing barbel-sized trout and early sea-run browns in clear water; the Wye and Severn are reporting fresh grilse in holding pools. Scottish rivers and lochs — Ness, Awe and Loch Lomond — show rising activity as water temperatures climb from 4°C in the Highlands to 8°C in southern chalk rivers.
Rivers firing this month
Classic pools on the Test, Itchen and Hampshire Avon remain productive at depths of 0.5–2.5 m. The Mill Pool produced a notable spring salmon: an 8 lb fresh-run fish took a 1½ in Black-and-yellow Tosh late afternoon, fought for approximately five minutes and was returned vigorously. Anglers should watch tails of pools after light rain and concentrate on runs downstream of riffles.
Reservoirs and lochs
Lowland reservoirs and lochs are holding fish between 4–8 m as thermal layers begin to form; surface temperatures typically range 6–10°C. Trolling small lures or fishing deep with a sinking line to 5–7 m can locate trout and sea-trout feeding on emerging plankton and fry.
Practical adjustments – low flows
When flows drop, fish narrower lies: tailouts, margins and shaded seams. Reduce fly size, favour natural profiles and longer leaders (10–12 ft) with 4X–6X tippet for trout. Employ Euro-nymphing or lightly weighted nymphs fished high in the water column to avoid snagging gravel patches.
Practical adjustments – high flows
In stain or coloured water, upsize to meatier wet flies, ally with heavier beadhead nymphs and increase shot. Fish deeper pools at 1.5–2.5 m and slow the retrieve; target slack water behind boulders and tail of the pool where salmon and trout hold.
Gear notes
Cold water demands robust knots, sealed waders and a reliable landing net for quick, low-stress returns. Light sinking tips and a spare spool with heavier backing are recommended for loch and tidal mouth work.
Recommended: fast sink flyline