River Camel

The River Camel is one of Cornwall's best known rivers and one of the most interesting waters in the county for the fly angler. Rising on Bodmin Moor before winding its way towards the north coast, the Camel offers a fascinating mixture of small upper river water, deeper pools, gravel runs and more substantial downstream sections. Its character changes considerably as it travels towards Wadebridge and eventually the Camel Estuary.

For the fly angler, the river is particularly interesting because it supports a mixture of wild brown trout and migratory fish. Celtic Guides currently have several sections of the Camel, including water offering brown trout, sea trout and salmon fishing. The river's varied character means there is plenty to learn from simply moving through different types of water and understanding where fish are likely to hold.

The upper Camel is typical of a Cornish moorland river, with faster flowing runs, riffles, pools and plenty of structure. These are waters where accurate casting, careful approach and good presentation can be far more important than distance. Small dry flies, nymphs and traditional West Country approaches can all have their place depending on water levels, insect activity and the time of year.

Further downstream, the river becomes larger and more powerful, creating different opportunities and presenting different challenges. Sea trout and salmon are important parts of the Camel's identity, although conservation and responsible handling are central to modern fishing.

The Camel is also a river with a strong connection to Cornish conservation. Work carried out by the Westcountry Rivers Trust and its partners has improved fish passage and habitat throughout the Camel catchment, helping migratory fish reach spawning areas.

For Celtic Guides, the Camel represents exactly what we love about Cornish fly fishing: wild water, changing conditions, beautiful surroundings and the opportunity to learn how to read a river rather than simply fish a mark.