Folds Farm Fishery River Avon
Our Folds Farm fishery is by far our longest, downstream of Salisbury, and lies on one of the largest river bends on the entire river, sweeping from the foot of the New Forest plateau in the east, right across to the edge of Fordingbridge and back again, over a length of around two miles – it is a fantastic prospect for the wandering angler who loves solitude and wide open spaces. There are three access options: the first two are approached from the New Forest side; a club car park at Folds Farm itself, best for getting to the upstream reaches, and another car park along the farm track, right in the middle of the valley and suitable for all parts of the fishery. The third is at the Surma Valley Indian Restaurant on the A338, perfect for those wishing to visit the middle and lower reaches from the Fordingbridge side.
The fishing experience is influenced by the two large weirs at Burgate, upstream of the suspension footbridge over the river (from which large barbel are seen, occasionally, gliding across the gravel). These weirs result in the upper half of the fishery being somewhat slower and deeper but with plenty of variety along the river’s curving course (be mindful of the short “no fishing” section between the white posts at the weir pool). The upper extent of the fishery is well away from the influence of the weirs and features some faster, shallower riffles.
Between the weirs and the suspension bridge is arguably the prettiest section, where experienced Avon anglers will recognise classic barbel and chub holding features; quicker flow over golden gravel and cobbles, divided into runs by beds of bright green water crowfoot.
The long stretch from the suspension bridge to the lower boundary curves gently and features an island, a variety of depths, plenty of bankside bushes and shrubs and several water meadow channels joining the river, all of which provide swims, lies and opportunities.
Folds Farm has provided members with fantastic sport in recent years for barbel, chub, roach, dace, perch and wild brown trout – it seems to be a fishery that responds well to an imaginative, mobile approach in terms of swim choice and technique. But there’s no question that the tried and tested Avon chub and barbel legering methods can be highly successful, especially in those lovely middle reaches.
