Test Morning Briefing
Stockbridge: caddis-driven rises on the River Test this morning
Brown trout are rising on the gravel runs and slick glides below Stockbridge, showing selective takes to surface sedges and caddis. Local reports note a Red Sedge doing the damage through the early‑June sedge window.
Best water is shallow gravel lanes, broken seams and tail‑outs rather than broad glassy sections. Fish are tucked in softer seams and on the tail‑ends of runs where the flow eases and naturals collect.
What is biting and how to present it
Adult caddis and sedge activity is the trigger: look for short, regular rises rather than long feeding wakes. A precise, drag‑free cast on the first drift beats heavy mending in these lanes. Accurate line control and a light presentation win the day.
Start with dry fly sizes around #12–#16, a long tapered leader and 4X–5X tippet; go finer only if takes go spooky. Stand on the edges of the runs and target the slight speed changes and tailouts rather than the big mid‑river flow.
Water is typical chalk‑stream clear and shallow this morning; trout feed hottest in the cool first light and again as sedge activity peaks at dawn. A Red Sedge eased across a gravel tailout will be the most convincing sight for the next hour.
Recommended: strong fine tippet