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Sutton Bingham reservoir

Sutton Bingham reservoir is a lowland fishery set in the gently rolling hills on the Somerset and Dorset border. Situated some four miles south of Yeovil it can be approached from the A37 Dorchester Road.

As well as being a reservoir - which was built in the 1950s to supply water to Yeovil and the treatment works which was modernised in 1991 - the site is of national importance for overwintering wildfowl and passage migrants, including osprey and there is a nature trail.

Fishing

Season: 17 March - 10 October 2010

This 142-acre reservoir offers excellent fly fishing for rainbow and brown trout, either from the bank or a boat. Fishing boats may be hired for rowing or you may use your own motor (electric outboard only). A wheelie boat is available for wheelchair users.

Because Sutton Bingham is a lowland reservoir, the water is not deep and the most popular method of fishing is with a floating line and mainly small lures and nymphs.

In 2009 Sutton Bingham fished very well and the largest rainbow trout taken weighed in at 7lbs 9oz. The rod average for the season was 2 with a total of just under 8,121 fish caught.

Tuition and tackle is available by appointment from the ranger who will also point visitors to the best spot and advise on the best fishing method of the day. The fishing lodge has been designed to cater for the disabled and includes a fish cleaning room, hot drinks, a shower and a large lounge area.

School groups can take advantage of the facilities at Sutton Bingham during term time. Tours of the water treatment works, a nature trail and indoor activities are available. For more details please contact our education adviser.

The members of Sutton Bingham FlyFishers' Association hold competitions through the season and fly tying classes are held during the close season. A lot of information is exchanged between members on where and how to fish the reservoir successfully.

More information about the club and competitions can be found on the fishing lodge notice board.

For more details about fishing at Sutton Bingham, contact ranger Ivan Tinsley on 01935 872389.

Sailing

Sailing is available to club members of Sutton Bingham Sailing Club. The public can hire the Wessex Water trio dinghy through the club. This facility, however, is limited to experienced sailors only, although beginners are encouraged to try the sport.

Corixa, the Wessex Water raider 18, is also available free of charge for the use of disabled visitors or special needs groups by arrangement with the Apollo Sailing Club. This club also offers regular canoeing and sailing for disabled members.

For more information about sailing, contact the club house on 01935 862933.

Yeovil and District Model Boat Club offers sailing for certain types of model boats.

For further details contact secretary Ken Bromley on 01458 250844.

For details about Yeovil and District Canoe Club contact Dan Brown on 07814 038462, email emaildan@sbd.cc or visit the club's website

Walking

Although access is not permitted all around the reservoir, a picnic area with views of the reservoir is open to visitors. Other facilities include a viewing area, a children's play area and a nature trail.

Because of safety concerns regarding incidents of dog fouling and lack of supervision by some owners, no dogs are allowed around this reservoir.

Wildlife

Sutton Bingham is a site of national importance for overwintering wildfowl and passage migrants.

There is a bird watching hide on the southern arm of the reservoir which overlooks the conservation area. This site is visited by passing osprey in the spring and autumn and new nesting facilities have been added for a variety of birds. Access to non-public areas can be arranged for groups through the ranger.

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