Top 10 Best Fishery Companies in Forest of Dean

A Forest Framed by Great Rivers

The Forest of Dean sits between two of Britain's most famous rivers. To the east, the tidal River Severn has supported traditional fisheries for centuries, including lave net fishing for salmon and the seasonal elver run. To the west, the River Wye is renowned for salmon, barbel and coarse fishing amid spectacular scenery. Inland, ponds, lakes and specialist fisheries offer anglers peaceful days surrounded by woodland.

Fishery businesses in and around the Forest range from artisan smokehouses and specialist eel conservation companies to commercial angling lakes and river trusts dedicated to protecting fish stocks. Together they support tourism, food production and environmental stewardship.

What Defines a Great Fishery Business

The best fishery organisations combine quality with sustainability. That means responsible sourcing, well-managed stocks, healthy habitats, good facilities for anglers and a commitment to protecting rivers for future generations.

The Top 10 Fishery Companies and Organisations

1. Severn and Wye Smokery

Severn and Wye Smokery near Westbury-on-Severn is an acclaimed artisan smokehouse producing smoked salmon, fish and seafood. It supplies restaurants, delis and retailers and runs a popular restaurant and shop, connecting the area's fishing heritage with modern gastronomy.

2. UK Glass Eels

UK Glass Eels, based in Gloucestershire, works with the Severn's historic elver fishery. It supports conservation efforts by supplying young eels for restocking programmes across Europe, helping protect this critically endangered species while preserving a traditional livelihood.

3. Wye and Usk Foundation

The Wye and Usk Foundation is a charity dedicated to improving river habitats and fish populations. It works with landowners to restore rivers, tackle pollution and manage fishing access through its angling passport schemes, helping visitors fish the Wye responsibly.

4. Severn Rivers Trust

Severn Rivers Trust focuses on restoring the Severn catchment for wildlife and people. Its projects to improve fish passage, reduce pollution and engage communities benefit salmon, shad and eels throughout the river system.

5. Witcombe Waters

Witcombe Waters is a well-regarded trout fishery in Gloucestershire offering fly fishing on spring-fed reservoirs. Its well-stocked waters and tuition make it a favourite among Forest anglers learning the art of fly fishing.

6. Huntley Carp Pools

Huntley Carp Pools on the northern edge of the Forest offers coarse fishing for carp and other species in a tranquil setting. It is popular with both day-ticket anglers and families introducing children to fishing.

7. Hartleton Lakes

Hartleton Lakes, a short drive from the Forest, provides well-maintained coarse fishing lakes and holiday lodges. Its combination of fishing and accommodation makes it an attractive option for angling breaks.

8. Cannop Ponds

Cannop Ponds, set in the heart of the Forest and managed within the public forest estate, offer peaceful coarse fishing amid woodland scenery. They are a much-loved spot where fishing, walking and wildlife watching come together.

9. Forest of Dean Angling Club

Local angling clubs manage waters, organise competitions and introduce newcomers to the sport. The Forest of Dean's angling community plays an important role in caring for local ponds and promoting responsible fishing practices.

10. Severn Lave Net Fishermen

Lave net fishing is a centuries-old method practised on the Severn near Lydney and Black Rock. The small community of licensed lave netters maintains a unique heritage fishery, now operated largely on a catch-and-release basis to protect salmon stocks.

Trends in Fisheries and River Management

Conservation now drives the fishery sector. Salmon and eel populations have declined dramatically, prompting catch-and-release policies, habitat restoration and stricter water quality campaigns. River trusts are increasingly using citizen science, with volunteers monitoring water quality along the Wye and Severn. Meanwhile, angling tourism remains strong, with fisheries investing in lodges, cafes and coaching. Artisan seafood producers are also benefiting from demand for traceable, responsibly sourced fish.

Tips for Anglers and Seafood Lovers

• Always hold a valid rod licence and follow fishery rules.
• Practise catch and release where required to protect fish stocks.
• Support river trusts through donations or volunteering.
• Choose locally smoked and responsibly sourced seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to fish in the Forest of Dean?

Anyone aged thirteen or over fishing for freshwater species in England needs an Environment Agency rod licence. In addition, you need permission or a ticket from the owner or club that controls the water you intend to fish.

What is lave net fishing?

Lave net fishing is a traditional method used on the Severn estuary, where fishermen wade into the tidal waters with a Y-shaped net to catch salmon. It is one of the oldest fishing methods in Britain and is now closely regulated to protect fish stocks.

Why are eels important in the Severn?

The Severn has one of the most significant elver runs in Europe. European eels are critically endangered, so careful management and restocking programmes are vital to their survival, and the river remains central to eel conservation efforts.

When is the best time to fish locally?

Coarse fishing on stillwaters is possible year-round, while river seasons vary by species. Spring and autumn are often especially productive, but local tackle shops and clubs can offer the best up-to-date advice.

Conclusion

The Forest of Dean's fishing heritage is as rich as its rivers. Severn and Wye Smokery and UK Glass Eels show how fisheries can thrive commercially and responsibly, the Wye and Usk Foundation and Severn Rivers Trust protect habitats, and venues like Witcombe Waters, Huntley, Hartleton Lakes and Cannop Ponds offer superb angling. Preserving traditions such as lave net fishing ensures the area's river culture continues for generations to come.