Question 1

What licence do I need to fish the River Exe?

Accepted Answer

You need an Environment Agency rod licence (available online at gov.uk) plus day tickets or club membership. Dulverton Angling Association controls much of the upper Exe; day tickets available from tackle shops in Dulverton.

Question 2

When is the trout season on the River Exe?

Accepted Answer

The brown trout season runs from 15 March to 30 September. The river also holds salmon (season 1 Feb - 30 Sept) and sea trout. Catch and release is encouraged for wild fish.

Question 3

Which town is best as a base for fishing the upper Exe?

Accepted Answer

Dulverton in Exmoor National Park is the traditional base for the upper Exe, with tackle shops, accommodation, and access to club waters. Tiverton serves the middle reaches.

Question 4

How do I get a permit to fish the River Exe?

Accepted Answer

Dulverton Angling Association controls several beats on the Exe, Barle and Haddeo. Day tickets and memberships available through Lance Nicholson tackle shop in Dulverton (01398 323409). For salmon fishing, the Fish The Exe scheme run by RETA provides access to some of the best fly water in the South West. You also need an Environment Agency rod licence.

Question 5

What fish species are in the River Exe?

Accepted Answer

Wild brown trout are the primary species, readily taking both nymph and dry fly. Grayling are present, and salmon and sea trout run the river seasonally. The Dulverton AA waters focus on trout, with catch and release encouraged. Salmon fishing is available through the Fish The Exe scheme.

River Exe – Fly Fishing