The River Wye, Wales’ crown jewel, winds over 200 miles through breathtaking landscapes, offering some of the finest fly fishing in the UK. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, thriving fish populations, and stunning scenery, it draws anglers worldwide in pursuit of wild brown trout, grayling, salmon, and more.
Journey of the Wye: From Source to Sea
Originating in the Cambrian Mountains, the Wye flows through Powys, Herefordshire, and Monmouthshire before merging with the River Severn. Its tributaries—the Lugg, Arrow, and Monnow—add to the river’s diversity, providing excellent fishing spots for grayling and wild brown trout.
Top Fishing Beats Along the Wye
With over 60 distinct beats, the Wye caters to every angler’s preference:
- Upper Wye: A wild brown trout haven, with fish reaching 3 lbs, plus grayling and sea trout. Summer calls for dry flies, while winter favors streamers.
- Hay-on-Wye: A scenic stretch teeming with grayling, brown trout, and summer sea trout runs.
- Builth Wells: Prime for salmon and sea trout, especially in summer and fall, with wider waters ideal for wet flies.
- Rhayader: Fast rapids and deep pools challenge anglers targeting wild trout and grayling.
- Lower Wye: The most popular beat, known for salmon, sea trout, and brown trout in wide, slow-moving waters.
Diverse Fish Species
The Wye boasts an impressive lineup:
- Wild brown trout (1–2 lbs)
- Grayling (up to 3 lbs)
- Salmon (peak runs from late November)
- Sea trout (summer catches)
- Bonus catches: barbel, chub, and pike!
Mastering the Wye: Techniques & Tips
- Summer: Dry flies (mayfly, caddis) rule.
- Winter: Streamers and nymphing with strike indicators excel.
- Adapt to water levels—heavy rain can make wading dangerous; bank fishing is safer.
Licensing & Regulations
Rules vary by beat and season. Check Fishing Passport UK for up-to-date info before your trip.
Target Species Spotlight
- Atlantic Salmon
- Barbel
- Brown Trout
- Chub
- Grayling
- Perch
- Pike
- Sea Trout
Whether you’re chasing trophy salmon or testing skills against wild trout, the River Wye delivers an unforgettable angling adventure.
Mark Hopkins 
