Rivers Erch and Rhydhir

The rivers Erch and Rhydhir both flow into the harbour at Pwllheli from the East and West respectively. Both have a good population of wild Brown Trout and also have good runs of Sea Trout from June through to September. The main Salmon run comes later in the year and so the Salmon season extends until the end of October.

Migratory Trout and Salmon can be pursued in these rivers using worm, fly or spinner. Mepps are the preferred spinner for these small rivers, while Teal Blue & Silver, Alexandra and Hugh Falkus' Medicine Fly are popular with the Fly Fisherman for Sea Trout.

An Environment Agency Rod Licence is required in addition to a permit to fish these rivers. A Salmon and Sea Trout licence is required to take Salmon or Sea Trout, but Brown Trout can be taken with a Coarse and Trout Licence. A Rod License can be obtained on line at the Environment Agency Website or from your Post Office. Local Environment Agency by-laws apply.

Lottery funding has been put to good use by the Pwllheli & District Angling Association to help them maintain the banks of the river Erch and to build styles and pathways for access to the fishing. A map showing the stretches of the river Erch that are leased by the Pwllheli & District Angling Association is available from all permit outlets. Sadly however, much of the river Rhydhir is now overgrown and inaccessible.

Nevertheless, whatever your preference, we have plenty of opportunities for the game angler.

Enjoy your fishing.