Hanningfield Reservoir re-opens for fishing on Saturday 9 March, and anglers are already booking up their boats for the opening weekend of the season!
In response to feedback from customers a new 12 fish full-day permit is being introduced this season, costing just £40.
Fly fishing tuition days will be taking place across the season for newcomers or those who want to hone their skills. Costing £69, the day includes theory and casting lessons, lunch and an afternoon of fishing. Dates for the fly fishing tuition days are -
• 27th April
• 11th May
• 8th June
• 13th July
• 21st September
• 5th October
The reservoir has been fully restocked with trout in preparation for the new season, and there are 38 boats available for hire, including two which are adapted for disabled anglers.
Boats and course bookings can be booked now by phoning 01268 712 180.
Last year more than 10,000 anglers visited Hanningfield, catching nearly 24,000 fish, and hiring boats more than 2,000 times. The largest trout caught in 2018 (should this be 2018 or do we have a 2018 size we could use) weighed in at a whopping 11lbs 5oz, while the largest pike was 15lbs.
Early risers will be pleased to hear that the Reservoir is open from 7am, so there is plenty of time to get out and enjoy the UK′s premier any-method trout fishery.
Jim Norquay, Senior Ranger at Hanningfield Reservoir said: "We′ve been very busy re-stocking for the start of the new season over the past few weeks, and we can′t wait to welcome everyone back to Hanningfield on Saturday 9 March. We′ve listened to our customers and introduced our new 12 fish day permit for just £40, so get your boats booked now!"
Free fishing for those under 18-years-old when with their parents or guardians and sharing their catch limit is available at Hanningfield, together with a loyalty card scheme offering a free days fishing after seven visits.
The reservoir also supports a thriving waterside ‘Cafe on the Water′, which has recently been refurbished and is open seven days a week all year round (excluding the Christmas period). Full details of opening times are available on the website listed below. The café will be open from 7.30am at weekends, with special offers on food and drink for anglers before they head out on the water.
For more information on fishing at Hanningfield visit https://www.eswater.co.uk/your-home/leisure.aspx or email go.fishing@nwl.co.uk. The fishery is also on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hanningfield.
Guides can be requested from 0345 155 0236 or by emailing info@watersideparksuk.com
Swimming in Hanningfield Reservoir can be dangerous and is not permitted, except under careful supervision at events. For more information about safety by reservoirs please visit Essex & Suffolk Water′s website: https://www.eswater.co.uk/your-home/learn-about-water/water-safety.aspx.