WE’RE ALL HOOKED ON FISHING NOW – SO CAST AN EYE OVER SOME OF THE BEST STAYS IN WALES FOR BUDDING ANGLERS
Hiking, cycling and wild swimming have all been on the rise since the start of the pandemic and now fishing is the latest outdoor pursuit to see a Covid-related boost. According to recent reports by the Environment Agency, applications for rod licenses were up 15% in 2020 and with sales of basic equipment booming too, the pastime has been attracting a wide range of new fans. Pembrokeshire offers some of the best fishing in Wales – on lakes and rivers, off the coast and at sea – making it a great destination for new anglers to try out their skills and Quality Cottages (www.qualitycottages.co.uk) offer a choice of places to stay that are ideally located for some of the very best fishing spots. For example:
Private river fishing in the Gwaun Valley
Winding its way through a pretty valley between the Preseli Hills and the North Pembrokeshire coast, the River Gwaun is a popular spot for anglers keen to hook trout and the occasional salmon. Fishing along the river requires permission from the landowner, but visitors to pretty Court Lodge (above left) can enjoy free, private fishing throughout their stay and accommodation in a peaceful riverside setting. This traditional Welsh stone cottage sits right on the riverbank, with south-facing decking and surrounded by 70 acres of private woodland and inside has two bedrooms and plenty of character, with exposed beams and stonework, and an inglenook fireplace. As well as fishing, the cottage is well-located for walking in the hills and along the Coast Path, plus visiting rugged beaches and busy coastal towns.
Quality Cottages (www.qualitycottages.co.uk 01348 837871) can offer seven-night stays at Court Lodge from £515, based on four sharing.
Private lake fishing in a nature reserve in North Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire has many hidden corners away from the coastal hotspots and one of these is a tiny private nature reserve, tucked away down a country lane on an estate a short drive from the North Pembrokeshire village of Mathry. Here keen anglers will find two lakes (pictured above right) - the larger of which is well stocked with rainbow trout – where fly fishing is available from April to October exclusively to guests at the nearby Lochturffin Old Farmhouse. The house dates in part back to the 17th century and sits next to an historic manor, with extensive grounds and accommodation for up to eight guests. In addition to fishing rights, visitors have use of a tennis court, gym, games room, with a small private woodland to explore and a large hot tub on the patio. The property is well situated for exploring the St David’s Peninsula, with easy access to both the north and south coast beaches as well as St David’s, Fishguard and Solva.
Quality Cottages (www.qualitycottages.co.uk 01348 837871) can offer seven-night stays at Lochturffin Old Farmhouse from £684, based on four sharing.
Sea fishing from Milford Haven Marina
For a chance to try something new and fish for the likes of bass, dog fish, small pollack and wrasse, one of the prime spots on the Pembrokeshire Coast is the sea wall at Milford Marina, to the east end of the Milford Docks. This busy stretch of waterway is home to a huge variety of species and has a fascinating fishing heritage, having become an important fishing centre in the 19th century and still the largest fishing port in Wales. With the whole of Milford Haven’s waterfront area undergoing a multi-million pound redevelopment, aside from fishing there is now a wide choice of places to eat and stay, as well as shops, activities and events. Among the latest additions to accommodation right on the waterfront is Vanguard House, a luxurious two bedroom apartment overlooking the marina and just a short walk from the best fishing spots.
Quality Cottages (www.qualitycottages.co.uk 01348 837871) can offer seven-night stays at Vanguard House from £602, based on four sharing.
Family-friendly fishing trips from Tenby
The waters around Pembrokeshire not just for expert anglers and the harbour at Tenby (above middle) is the starting point for popular off-shore family-friendly fishing trips. Available throughout the year, the trips are suitable for beginners, children, well-behaved dogs, and are wheelchair accessible too, making it a fun experience for the whole family. Visitors can learn how to fish for mackerel, keep what they catch and enjoy a deliciously fresh fish bbq at the end of the day, plus as well as a good haul of mackerel, visitors may be able to spot other local wildlife including seals and dolphins. Directly overlooking the harbour, Kemendine Harbour View is a new apartment this season, stylishly furnished with accommodation for up to four and with easy access to the centre of Tenby and its beaches.
Quality Cottages (www.qualitycottages.co.uk 01348 837871) can offer seven-night stays at Kemendine Harbour View from £767, based on four sharing.