Top 10 Best Fishery Companies in West Devon

West Devon: A Destination for Anglers

West Devon is surrounded by water. The River Tamar forms the border with Cornwall, while its tributaries, including the Tavy, Lyd, Thrushel and Wolf, wind through wooded valleys and farmland. Dartmoor feeds countless streams, and several large reservoirs provide stillwater fishing for trout and coarse species. These waters support salmon, sea trout, brown trout and a wide range of coarse fish, making the district one of the most rewarding angling areas in the South West.

Fishery companies here include lake operators, fishing hotels, conservation organisations and nearby commercial fish suppliers. Together they support tourism, local employment and the health of the rivers. Below are ten of the best fishery companies and destinations in and around West Devon.

Top 10 Fishery Companies and Destinations

1. South West Lakes Trust

South West Lakes Trust manages many of the region's reservoirs for recreation, including Roadford Lake, the largest inland body of water in the South West, located in West Devon. Its fisheries offer fly fishing for brown and rainbow trout as well as coarse fishing, with day tickets, season permits and angling events available.

2. The Arundell Arms

The Arundell Arms in Lifton is one of England's most famous sporting hotels. It holds fishing rights on miles of the Tamar and its tributaries, offering salmon, sea trout and brown trout fishing. Its fly fishing tuition has introduced generations of anglers to the sport.

3. Burrator Reservoir Fishery

Set in a dramatic Dartmoor landscape near Yelverton, Burrator Reservoir offers natural brown trout fishing in a peaceful setting. It is managed for anglers who appreciate wild surroundings and a more traditional fly fishing experience.

4. Westcountry Rivers Trust

The Westcountry Rivers Trust is a conservation charity that works to restore and protect rivers across the South West. Its projects improve habitats for salmon and trout, reduce pollution and work with farmers on river-friendly land management, directly benefiting fisheries throughout West Devon.

5. Tamar Fishery Associations and Angling Clubs

Local angling associations on the Tamar, Tavy and Lyd manage stretches of river for members and visiting anglers. These clubs maintain banks, record catches, support conservation and help preserve the traditions of river fishing in the district.

6. Simpson Valley Fishery

Near Holsworthy, just north of West Devon, Simpson Valley Fishery is a popular coarse fishing venue with several well-stocked lakes. Its carp, tench, bream and roach attract both match anglers and pleasure fishers, and it is valued for its well-kept swims and welcoming atmosphere.

7. Anglers Paradise

Anglers Paradise near Halwill Junction is renowned for its specimen coarse fishing and varied lakes stocked with carp, golden tench and unusual ornamental species. It combines fishing with holiday accommodation, making it a favourite for angling breaks.

8. Plymouth Trawler Agents

Plymouth Trawler Agents operates the fish market at Plymouth, close to West Devon. It handles fish landed by the regional fleet and sells it to wholesalers, restaurants and processors, supplying fresh seafood to businesses across the area.

9. Brixham Trawler Agents

Brixham Trawler Agents runs one of the most valuable fish markets in England by value of catch. Fishmongers and restaurants serving West Devon frequently source sustainable, high-quality fish through Brixham's daily auctions.

10. The Wild Trout Trust

The Wild Trout Trust provides advisory visits, habitat improvement projects and practical guidance for river owners and clubs. Its work on Dartmoor streams and Tamar tributaries helps protect wild brown trout populations for future generations.

Trends in the Fishery Sector

River health is the dominant issue for fisheries today. Concerns about agricultural run-off, sewage discharges and warming water temperatures have increased the focus on conservation and catch-and-release practices, particularly for salmon and sea trout. Stillwater fisheries are investing in better facilities, accessible platforms and online booking, while fishing tourism continues to grow as visitors seek peaceful outdoor experiences. On the commercial side, sustainability certification and traceability are increasingly important to restaurants and consumers.

Choosing a Fishery or Supplier

Anglers should consider species, season, permit requirements, accessibility and any rules on catch limits or methods. Remember that a valid Environment Agency rod licence is required for freshwater fishing in England. Businesses buying seafood should look for traceable supply, consistent quality and suppliers committed to sustainable fishing practices.

Fishing Seasons and Local Etiquette

Understanding seasons is essential for anyone fishing in West Devon. Migratory fish such as salmon and sea trout have defined open seasons on the Tamar and its tributaries, and many associations encourage or require catch-and-release, especially early in the season. Sea trout fishing, often carried out at night during the summer months, is a celebrated local tradition on rivers such as the Tavy and Lyd. Brown trout seasons on rivers and reservoirs differ from stillwater rainbow trout fisheries, which may be open for much of the year.

Coarse fishing on rivers has a statutory close season in spring to protect spawning fish, although many stillwater lakes remain open year-round. Anglers should always check current byelaws and permit conditions before setting out. Good etiquette also matters: respect private land, close gates, give other anglers space and take all litter, including discarded line, home. Many fisheries welcome beginners, and booking a session with a qualified guide or instructor is an excellent way to learn techniques, understand local waters and fish more responsibly.

Final Thoughts

West Devon offers anglers a remarkable variety of waters, from historic salmon rivers to tranquil coarse lakes and dramatic moorland reservoirs. Supported by dedicated conservation organisations and nearby fish markets, the district's fishery sector remains a vibrant part of local life and tourism.