The best pike fishery in all England..?

Bristol Water today published an end of year round-up for its trout waters, including pike catches from Chew Valley Reservoir.

"A total of 21 fish weighing over 30 pounds were captured, the biggest being a huge fish of 36.12 landed by Shaun Hoskins," it said.

"And another 127 twenty pounders were also landed perhaps confirming what many think - that Chew Valley is the best pike fishery in England."

Dates for boat and bank fishing for next year, together with booking details are included in local paper the Weston Mercury.

Click here for more details.

Chew Valley - a retrospective

Venue regulars Pete Climo and Bob Jones look back over some of the incredible sport enjoyed by pike anglers on Chew Valley Reservoir, in an article in Bristol Water's latest fishery magazine.

In 2001, the company allowed pikers to fish the reservoir on a limited number of dates for the first time. After an explosive start with fish to 38lbs boated, the lake has continued to throw up some outstanding captures each season.

"Credit must be given to Bob Handford and his team for skilful management of this valuable resource," the article says. "The pike population breeds and sustains itself naturally and would be too easy to over-exploit.

"Thankfully for both the angler and the viability of the fishery, Bob and his team have got the mix just about right."

The article askes whether Chew will produce a 40lbs-plus fish - something it has come close to doing but not yet managed - in 2008.

"Some of us believe it is possible," it goes on. "Who can tell..? It comes so close every year, perhaps 2008 is the one.

"beyond doubt though, Chew claims its rightful place among Britain's premier pike fisheries year on year."

For more information on dates, rules and prices, click here.

Chew Valley pike dates for 2008 announced

Bristol Water has announced boat and bank fishing for pike will take place at Chew between January 19 and 25; February 2 and 8; October 15 and 20 and 25 and 30; November 4 and 9; and bank fishing only November 14 and 19 and 25 and 30.

Plenty to Chew on at Westcountry res

Ten fish over 30lbs and 60 twenties were caught during this season's pike dates at Chew Valley Reservoir. Next year's dates will be announced in Mid December, says Bristol Water.

Chew produces 38lbs 6oz cracker

Chew Valley Reservoir has produced a 38lbs 6oz pike to Northampton angler Andy Baldock. Click here for local paper report and a picture.

Chew Valley fish is 'best for three years'

Paul Weston's 36lbs 12oz brute from Chew is the best pike from the 1,200-acre trout reservoir for three years. Click here for local paper report.

Chew pike dates latest

Fish of the year from Chew Valley Reservoir was a 34lbs 7oz cracker captured by Rob Watts.

Boat and bank dates for this year are February 3 - 9 and 17 - 23; October 15 - 20 and October 25 - 30; and November 4 - 9.

There will also be bank-only days from November 14 - 19 and November 25 - 30.

Places are limited so booking is essential. For details call 01275 332339.