How to Tour Malmsmead, Badgworthy, and Otter Fishing

Exploring the remote, scenic landscapes of Devon and Somerset in southwest England offers a rare blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and angling tradition. Among the most compellingand least documentedjourneys for outdoor enthusiasts is the tour of Malmsmead, Badgworthy, and the surrounding otter fishing waters. This route, winding through ancient woodlands, moss-covered stone bridges, and secluded river valleys, provides not only a profound connection with nature but also a unique opportunity to observe and respectfully engage with one of Britains most elusive native species: the Eurasian otter.

Contrary to popular belief, otter fishing does not refer to fishing for ottersit is a traditional term describing the practice of angling in habitats known to support healthy otter populations. These areas are ecologically sensitive, legally protected, and require a deep understanding of local wildlife behavior, conservation ethics, and land access rights. This guide is your comprehensive resource for navigating this extraordinary tour with precision, respect, and authenticity.

Whether you are a seasoned naturalist, a fly-fisher seeking solitude, or a traveler drawn to hidden corners of the British countryside, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to plan, execute, and reflect upon a meaningful journey through Malmsmead and Badgworthy. By the end, you will understand not only how to tour these locations, but why they matterand how your presence can contribute to their preservation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Geography and Historical Context

Malmsmead is a hamlet nestled in the Exmoor National Park, straddling the border between Devon and Somerset. It lies at the head of the Badgworthy Water, a tributary of the River Barle. The area is steeped in medieval historyevidence of ancient tin mining, drovers roads, and 17th-century stone cottages still dot the landscape. Badgworthy Water itself is a chalk-fed stream, clear and cold, with a natural flow ideal for aquatic insects and, consequently, for fish and otters.

Before setting foot on the trail, study topographic maps of the region. The Ordnance Survey Explorer OL9 (Exmoor) and OL28 (Bath and West Somerset) are essential. Mark key waypoints: Malmsmead Bridge, Badgworthy Bridge, the abandoned Badgworthy Mine, and the confluence with the River Barle. These landmarks will anchor your route and help you navigate without digital signals, which are unreliable in this valley.

Historical context matters. The otter population in this region declined sharply in the 1960s and 70s due to pesticide runoff and habitat fragmentation. Their return since the 1990sthanks to the ban on organochlorine pesticides and habitat restorationis one of Britains greatest conservation successes. Recognizing this history informs your conduct on the ground.

Step 2: Obtain Legal Access and Permissions

Access to Badgworthy Water is not automatic. While public footpaths exist, much of the riverside is private land, often held by estate owners who manage fisheries. The key to legal access is understanding the rights of way and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW Act).

First, consult the Defra Public Rights of Way database. Identify the designated footpath from Malmsmead to Badgworthy Bridge (Path No. 17). This path runs parallel to the river for approximately 1.8 miles and is your legal access corridor. Do not deviate onto private land without written permission.

Second, if you intend to fish, you must secure a rod license from the Environment Agency and a permit from the Badgworthy Water Angling Association. These permits are limited and often reserved for local residents, but day permits are occasionally available for visitors through the associations website. Apply at least two weeks in advance. Failure to obtain a permit may result in prosecution under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975.

Step 3: Plan Your Timing and Seasonal Conditions

Timing is everything. Otters are crepuscularmost active at dawn and duskand highly sensitive to human disturbance. The optimal window for your tour is late spring (MayJune) or early autumn (SeptemberOctober). During these months, water levels are stable, vegetation is less dense, and otter activity peaks as they forage for fish and raise young.

Avoid summer months (JulyAugust), when water levels drop and the riverbed becomes exposed, increasing stress on aquatic life. Winter (NovemberFebruary) brings heavy rains, muddy trails, and potential flooding, making navigation hazardous.

Check local weather and river gauges via the Environment Agencys real-time data portal. Ideal flow rates for walking and fishing are between 0.5 and 1.2 cubic meters per second. Higher flows make wading dangerous; lower flows reduce fish activity and increase the risk of disturbing otter holts.

Step 4: Prepare Your Gear and Clothing

Minimalism is key. You are not hiking a mountainyou are moving through a fragile ecosystem. Pack only what you need:

• Waterproof hiking boots with grip soles for slippery stones
• Waterproof trousers and a breathable, windproof jacket
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing in muted earth tones (avoid bright colors)
• Small daypack with: water, high-energy snacks, first-aid kit, whistle, headlamp, and a paper map
• Binoculars with 8x42 magnification for otter observation
• Camera with telephoto lens (minimum 300mm) for non-intrusive photography
• Fly-fishing gear only if permitted: 9-foot, 5-weight rod, floating line, and natural fly patterns (e.g., Hares Ear Nymph, Pheasant Tail, Black Gnat)

Never carry plastic water bottles. Use a reusable stainless steel or silicone container. Single-use plastics are a severe threat to otters, who may mistake them for prey or become entangled.

Step 5: Follow the Route with Minimal Impact

Begin your journey at the Malmsmead car park (grid reference SS 855 395). Park only in designated areas. Walk the public footpath toward Badgworthy Bridge, staying on the marked trail. Avoid cutting corners or trampling ground vegetationthis disturbs the root systems that stabilize the riverbank.

As you approach the bridge, pause. Listen. Otters communicate with soft chirps, whistles, and low growls. You may hear the splash of a fish or the rustle of reeds. Do not move suddenly. Sit quietly for five minutes. Observe. If you spot signssmooth, muddy slides on the bank, five-toed footprints, or spraints (otter droppings)mark their location mentally but do not approach.

At Badgworthy Bridge, cross carefully. The stone arch dates to the 15th century. Do not lean on or climb the structure. Continue downstream along the footpath toward the confluence with the River Barle. This stretch is prime otter territory. Look for holtscavities under roots, rock piles, or fallen logs near the waters edge. These are otter homes. Never investigate them.

If you are fishing, cast only in permitted zones. Use barbless hooks. Practice catch-and-release. Handle fish gently, with wet hands, and return them quickly to the water. Avoid wading in areas where otter spraints are concentratedthis is territorial marking, not waste.

Step 6: Document and Reflect

Keep a quiet journal. Note the time, weather, water conditions, and any wildlife sightings. Did you hear an otter? Did you see a kingfisher? Did the water clarity change after rain? These observations contribute to citizen science efforts.

Take photographs from a distance. Never use flash. Never bait or lure otters. Never play recordings of otter calls to provoke a response. These actions are unethical and illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

At the end of your journey, reflect on your impact. Did you leave no trace? Did you respect silence? Did you learn something new? This reflection is as important as the walk itself.

Best Practices

Respect the Silence

The valley thrives on quiet. Human voices, radios, and loud footsteps disrupt the natural rhythm. Speak in whispers. Turn off all electronic devices. Let the wind, the water, and the birds be your soundtrack. Otters are easily startled, and repeated disturbances can cause them to abandon their holts.

Leave No Trace

Adopt the Leave No Trace principles rigorously:

• Carry out everything you carry inincluding biodegradable waste
• Use designated toilets or dig a cathole at least 100 meters from water sources
• Do not pick plants, collect stones, or remove any natural objects
• Never feed wildlife, even with bread or scraps

Even a single candy wrapper can be fatal to an otter. Their curiosity leads them to investigate unfamiliar objectsand many have died from ingesting plastics or chemicals.

Observe, Dont Interact

Otters are wild animals, not attractions. If you see one, admire it. Do not approach. Do not try to photograph it up close. Do not call to it. The best images are taken from 50 meters or more with a telephoto lens. If the otter flees, you were too close. Retreat slowly and silently.

Remember: You are a guest in their home.

Support Conservation Efforts

Volunteer with the Otter Trust or Exmoor National Park Authority. Participate in citizen science surveys. Report otter sightings via the UK Otter Survey website. Donate to river restoration projects. Your presence is not just a tourits an opportunity to contribute to ecological recovery.

Know the Law

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is illegal to:

• Intentionally kill, injure, or take an otter
• Damage or destroy an otter holt
• Disturb an otter while it is using a holt

Violations carry fines up to 5,000 and/or six months imprisonment. Ignorance is not a defense.

Travel in Small Groups

Group size should not exceed four people. Larger groups increase noise, scent, and visual disturbance. Solo travelers often have the most successful encounters with wildlife because they move with greater subtlety.

Tools and Resources

Essential Mapping Tools

• Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps OL9 and OL28 Printed maps are mandatory. GPS signals fail in the valley.
• OS Maps App Download offline maps for backup. Use only when you have signal.
• Google Earth Pro Study the terrain and elevation profile before departure.

Wildlife Identification Guides

• Otters: A Field Guide by David Tipling The definitive visual reference for identifying otter signs and behavior.
• British Freshwater Fishes by Peter J. B. Woods Helps identify prey species otters feed on, aiding in understanding their activity patterns.
• The Exmoor Naturalist by John H. S. F. Smith A local historical and ecological resource.

Permit and Licensing Resources

• Environment Agency Rod Licensing www.gov.uk/fishing-licences
• Badgworthy Water Angling Association www.badgworthyangling.org.uk (check for day permits)
• UK Otter Survey www.ukottersurvey.org Report sightings and contribute data
• Exmoor National Park Authority www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk Access maps, conservation updates, and guided walk schedules

Weather and River Monitoring

• Environment Agency River Levels www.gov.uk/check-river-levels
• Met Office Exmoor Forecast www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/gc07x736q
• Windy.com Excellent for real-time wind and precipitation tracking in upland areas

Community and Volunteer Networks

• The Otter Trust www.ottertrust.org Offers educational materials and volunteer opportunities
• Exmoor National Park Volunteer Rangers Join a river clean-up or otter monitoring team
• Friends of the River Barle A local group dedicated to river health and access rights

Real Examples

Example 1: The Silent Encounter Sarahs Journey

Sarah, a wildlife photographer from Bristol, planned her visit to Malmsmead for a quiet May morning. She arrived at 5:30 a.m., with no gear beyond her camera, binoculars, and a thermos of tea. She walked the footpath slowly, pausing every 100 meters to listen. At 7:15 a.m., near the old mine ruins, she heard a faint splash. Through her telephoto lens, she saw a female otter with two cubs sliding down the bank into the water. She remained still for 22 minutes, capturing 14 images without a single sound. The otters fed, played, and disappeared into a holt under a fallen oak. Sarah later submitted her images to the UK Otter Survey, which helped confirm a breeding pair in the area. Her photos were featured in a national park exhibit.

Example 2: The Permitted Angler Jamess Day on Badgworthy Water

James, a fly-fisher from Taunton, secured a day permit after a six-month wait. He fished only from the designated stretch downstream of Badgworthy Bridge. He used a single nymph pattern and caught three wild brown trout, all of which he released within 90 seconds. He noted the presence of spraints near the waters edge and avoided that area entirely. He spent the afternoon sitting quietly on a rock, watching a kingfisher dive and a heron stalk the shallows. He left no trace. His journal entry read: I didnt catch much. But I felt like I was part of something older than me.

Example 3: The Misguided Visitor A Cautionary Tale

In 2021, a group of three tourists from London ignored signage and crossed onto private land near the mine, hoping to get closer to the otters. They shouted, threw stones into the water, and attempted to feed a juvenile otter a sausage. The otter fled and did not return to that stretch for six months. The landowner reported them to the police. The group received a formal warning under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. The incident was documented in the Exmoor Conservation Bulletin as a case study in irresponsible tourism.

Example 4: The Citizen Scientist Davids Long-Term Contribution

David, a retired teacher from Minehead, began visiting Malmsmead annually in 2010. He kept a detailed log of otter signs, water levels, and fish activity. In 2018, he noticed a decline in spraint frequency and reported it. The Exmoor National Park Authority investigated and found elevated phosphate levels from a nearby farm. Their intervention led to a change in fertilizer use. Davids logs are now archived as part of the regions ecological baseline data. He says, I didnt set out to save otters. I just wanted to see them. But seeing them meant I had to protect them.

FAQs

Can I swim in Badgworthy Water?

Swimming is not permitted in Badgworthy Water. It is a protected river habitat, and human entry disrupts aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, the water is cold and fast-flowing, posing a drowning risk. Stick to the footpath.

Are otters dangerous to humans?

Otters are not aggressive toward people. However, they are wild animals and may react defensively if cornered or threatened. Never attempt to touch, chase, or feed them. Maintain distance and respect their space.

Is fishing allowed year-round?

No. The official fishing season for brown trout in Badgworthy Water runs from mid-March to mid-October. The river is closed during winter to protect spawning fish. Always verify current regulations with the Badgworthy Water Angling Association.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are not permitted on the footpath or near the river. Even on a leash, dogs disturb otters and other wildlife. The scent of a dog can cause otters to abandon their holts for weeks. Leave your dog at home.

What if I see an injured otter?

Do not approach. Note the location and call the RSPCA or the Exmoor National Park Authority immediately. Provide your grid reference. Do not attempt to handle or feed the animal. Trained responders will assist.

How long does the full tour take?

The walk from Malmsmead to Badgworthy Bridge and back is approximately 4.5 miles and takes 34 hours at a slow, observant pace. Add additional time for fishing, photography, or quiet reflection. Plan for a full day.

Are there any guided tours available?

Yes. Exmoor National Park Authority offers seasonal guided walks focused on otter ecology and river conservation. These are limited to small groups and require advance booking. Check their website for schedules.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children aged 10 and above may join if they are quiet, supervised, and understand the importance of respecting wildlife. Younger children are not recommended due to the length of the walk and the need for sustained silence.

Can I camp near Malmsmead?

No. Wild camping is prohibited in Exmoor National Park without a permit. The nearest official campsite is the Malmsmead Farm Campsite, which is privately operated and requires booking. Do not camp along the riverbank.

Why is this tour so obscure?

Because it is intentionally low-impact. The regions ecological fragility and legal restrictions limit access to preserve its integrity. This obscurity is a feature, not a flaw. It protects the otters, the fish, and the ancient landscape.

Conclusion

The tour of Malmsmead, Badgworthy, and the otter fishing waters is not a destinationit is an experience. It is a quiet communion with a landscape that has endured centuries of change, and with creatures that have returned against all odds. To walk this path is to step into a story older than tourism, older than conservation policy, older than the concept of attractions. It is a story of resilience, of rivers that remember, of otters that return when we stop chasing them.

This guide has provided the practical steps: how to plan, how to access, how to behave. But the deeper lesson is this: true exploration is not about seeing everything. It is about seeing deeply. It is about knowing when to pause, when to listen, when to leave something untouched.

The otters do not need your photographs. They do not need your admiration. They need your restraint. Your silence. Your respect.

So go. Walk the path. Feel the moss underfoot. Hear the water over stone. Watch the light shift on the river. And if you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a shadow slipping beneath the surfacea creature of wild grace, returning home.

Leave nothing. Take nothing. Remember everything.