Back to 'Angling News'  Section

ANGLING IN THE LAKE DISTRICT (63A), with Patrick Arnold

Written By: Patrick Arnold On Date: 4/4/2004 ENGLISH LAKES FLY FISHING ANGLING IN THE ENGLISH LAKE DISTRICT (63) , with Patrick Arnold, Including Fisheries - North Lancashire and into West Yorkshire. This Report covers Game Angling and briefly Coarse Fishing and Sea Angling. The Fly Fishing ‘Hints and Tips’ are based on the author’s own experiences. GENERAL NEWS ITEMS FROM CUMBRIA - AND THE NORTH WEST Index to Articles Part 1. (63A) - General News Items from Cumbria ; Game Angling - Rivers and Lakes. Part 2. (63B) - Game Angling - Stillwaters. Part 3. (63C) - Coarse Fishing and Sea Fishing. This month Angling in the Lake District will be in the three sections above. Part 2 will be posted within the next couple of days and Part 3, as soon as possible. 4th April 2004 ~~~~~ PART 1. NEWS FLASH ……. Bringing Bigland Hall Trout Fishery back to its former Glory The new owners of Bigland Hall have immediately commenced improvement work to develop the Fisheries and Sporting Facilities. The first priority is the Bigland Hall Trout Fishery which is excellent news for anglers who enjoy fishing this Water. A full Report appears in the Stillwater Section - Part 2 (63B). UNITY OF ANGLERS to protect the environment and wild fish stocks was a recurring theme at the recent Environment Agency Fisheries Seminar held in Kendal. Very interesting presentations included the objectives of the National Trout and Grayling Strategy, the roles of the Grayling Society and the Wild Trout Trust. Most appropriate at a time when an increasing number of anglers are fishing for these species and so much work must be done to protect and develop stocks and their habitat. The important theme of unity for all countryside activities was the key note from Tom Fell, Countryside Alliance, one of the Guest Speakers at the Grand Fishing Evening organized last week by Tewitfield Fishery. The National Angling Alliance and the Moran Committee have recently met to discuss the best approach to unify Fisheries and Angling Bodies nationally. THE EDEN RIVERS TRUST held a most interesting Seminar on 13th March. A full Report will appear in the next Article. A JUNIOR COACHING SESSION organized by the Environment Agency and Kent Angling Association will take place at Watercrook on the river Kent on Sunday 2nd May starting at 9.30 a.m. and finishing at 1.00 p.m. This is an opportunity for youngsters under 16 to experience river fishing for Brown Trout. Tackle and one-day Rod Licences will be provided. For full information and booking contact : Jo Barrett at the Environment Agency, tel. no. 01768 866666. TO FISH FOR ENGLAND is an exhilarating experience and Teams for 2005 will be selected from the National Finals for both River and Loch Style. To qualify for these Finals competitors must first of all enter a River Qualifier and a Loch Style Eliminator, respectively. This year the Yorkshire Federation will accept entries from outside the County for their River Qualifier on the Wharfe on Sunday 25th April 2004 and the Loch Style Eliminator at Stocks Reservoir on Sunday 23rd May 2004. Entrants must be at least 18 years old on May 1st of the following year and must not have already fished or intend to fish another Qualifying Competition in the same qualifying period. Further information can be obtained from Paul Page, tel. no. 01457 867294. The Odds ‘n’ Sods Open Loch Style Eliminator is being held at Stocks Reservoir on Sunday 4th July 2004, with further information from Ben Dobson on tel. no. 01200 446602. The same qualifying criteria apply. For Juniors who would like to enter the Junior Competitions further information can be obtained from the Confederation National Secretary, Peter Godfrey, tel. no. 01670 823839. ROD LICENCES for 2004/2005 came into force on Thursday 1st April and anglers are reminded to ensure they have their new Licence before going out fishing. WEATHER March commenced with a continuation of the bitterly cold but dry weather which lasted for some three weeks. On 3rd and again on 6th there was some rain - the first since early February, mid-day on 5th was warm and sunny - really like spring - but the cold North Wind returned in the late afternoon bringing frost at night, sunny days but again the bitter wind from the North or North East. The nights were cold with frost and some snow on higher ground. These conditions lasted until 14th. On the Opening Day of the Brown Trout season on15th there was a Southerly Gale and driving rain from mid-morning. Cold unsettled weather, often very windy, with rain and some further snow on high ground lasted until 26th. The month ended dry, very sunny during the day but with a cold East or South East wind - very pleasant in sheltered areas. As a whole throughout the Country the rainfall during March was only 80% of the long term average with average temperatures above normal - perhaps hard to believe, in the Lake District anyway! April started overcast and dry on 1st with immediate prospects for unsettled conditions and some rain. RIVERS CUMBRIA - THE LAKE DISTRICT EDEN, ALSO EAMONT AND LOWTHER Feature Article with All the News for the 2004 Season General : The River Eden rises at Mallerstang in Cumbria, flowing over carboniferous limestone making it rich in habitat and species biodiversity. It meanders through beautiful meadows and woodlands with a large variety of wildlife, making a perfectly peaceful place for fishing - a rare treat for anglers these days. The River Eden offers some of the finest and most varied fishing in the Country. On its route to the Irish Sea on the Solway Firth the Eden is joined by a number of tributaries, including the Eamont and the Lowther. The Eamont has its source on the eastern slopes of Helvellyn and flows out of Ullswater before joining the Eden at Watersmeet. The Lowther rises at picturesque Sleddale and meets the river Eamont near Penrith. The whole river system is a candidate European Special Area of Conservation (cSAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The Eden is still one of the Country’s premier rivers for Spring Salmon although these have declined in recent years as they have on most rivers. It is also an important river for Grilse, also Sea Trout and Brown Trout ; some beats on the Eden and Lowther hold Grayling. The Environment Agency ran a Three Year Spring Salmon Radio-Tracking Project on the Eden to gain further information essential to managing the remaining stocks successfully. The Eden Rivers Trust, a Registered Charity, was set up to maintain and restore the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the River Eden together with its tributaries ; delivering effective partnership work on behalf of angling clubs, river owners, Environment Agency, English Nature also other Agencies, also education programmes involving the local community, in particular, young people. The middle reaches of the Eden flow through varied and spectacular countryside from fertile pastures to the rocky gorges at Lazonby. Within easy distance of Ullswater and the North Lakes and the ancient Cathedral City of Carlisle - once a Roman frontier town - just South of Hadrian’s Wall. The advantage of the stretches on the Eden, Eamont and Lowther, controlled by Penrith Angling Association, is that each river system rises in a separate catchment area, thus it is usually possible to fish at least one of the rivers at any given time. Trout average 12" and just under 1 lb. in the main Rivers but 2 lbs. fish are not uncommon. These wild native fish are hard fighters and fin perfect. A fish of a lifetime is always a possibility. In recent years at least two fish around the 4 lbs. mark have been caught with several over 3 lbs. The record Eden Brown Trout is 8 lbs. and at least four other captures over 6 lbs. have been recorded. Without a doubt, these leviathans still lurk in the depths but only rarely come to the artificial fly. It's just a case of being in the right place at the right time. Recommended Accommodation : The Punch Bowl Inn at Askham, near Penrith is conveniently situated to the rivers Eamont and Lowther also the beats on the Eden near Penrith. It is some 25 minutes drive to Glenridding, where boats can be hired on Ullswater, see under the Lakes Section for Ullswater. Askham is a pleasant and quaint village with its origins very closely linked with the Lowther Estate. This is an ideal centre to fish these Waters. The Inn is comfortable and the food is good/plentiful. The author, Patrick Arnold, has stayed here and can recommend it. For further information contact Paul and Louise, tel. no. 01931 712442 e-mail : punchbowlaskham@aol.com Seasons - The Salmon season on the river Eden opens on 15th January and closes on 14th October. Salmon caught before 16th June must be returned to the water unharmed. The Brown Trout season opens on 15th March and closes on 30th September. The Sea Trout season opens on 1st April and closes on 30th September. The Grayling season opens on 16th June and closes on 14th March. A number of beats have a Winter Grayling Day Tickets from 15th October to either 14th January or 14th March. Guided Game Angling Days, Fly Fishing Instruction - Individual, Group and Courses - and Corporate Hospitality Days can be arranged on the Rivers Eden, Eamont and Lowther with the Author, Patrick Arnold - English Lakes Fly Fishing on tel. nos. 01229 889792 or 01229 889365 , e-mail : patrickarnold@englishlakesflyfishing.fsnet.co.uk General : Fishery Report - Condition of River Eden In early March the river was at a very low level - at Lazonby Estate on 5th March it was 5 in. below the mark, but clear and cold. Conditions were excellent for the end of the Grayling fishing. With the rain and some snow melt the level then rose 4 ft. The start of the Brown Trout season on 15th March saw strong winds and driving rain with a further 2 ft. lift to give a 6 ft. river, accompanied by a grey slate colour on some beats. The additional water was welcomed by Salmon anglers and when it fined down with just a hint of colour conditions were almost perfect. Fishery Report - Salmon Runs and Redd Counts High water levels mid month brought a good run of Salmon and some Sea Trout. Data from the Fish Counter at Corby shows a net upstream count this year to 25th March 2004 of 400. For the same period in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003 the net upstream counts were 75, 159, 385 and 412 respectively. The high water levels prevented any further counting of redds. Fishery Report - Salmon - All beats Whilst the first half of March was slow, the second half of the month saw some of the best fishing for spring Salmon for many years. Perhaps this is a factor of more anglers being out on the water as the run of spring Salmon so far this year is fractionally down on last year. Details from the various beats are shown in each section below. Prospects Salmon - All Beats Prospects are good for the beginning of April as the river has fined down and air temperatures increased. Some rain is forecast which should bring up further fresh fish. Tactics for April The secret of catching Spring Salmon is adapting to conditions. Initially spinning is likely to be the best approach using a Zebra Toby or Devon Minnows - either Green & Yellow or Black & Gold. With the current water level of some 2 ft. on the gauge at the beginning of April these spinners need to be 18 to 20 grams. A number of anglers will start fly fishing as the weather improves. When cold fish deeper with a heavier medium sink line and a Waddington but if milder change to a lighter line, either a neutral or very slow intermediate with a smaller Tube. The choice of line will depend on the water level. If the level drops to very low, use a sink tip line. Recommended spring flies include : Willie Gunn - gold body ; Ally’s Cascade Shrimp ; also Thunder & Lightening, Garry Dog and Silver Stoat’s Tail. Flies should have a tinge of colour. Sizes will vary depending on water levels but as at the beginning of April use a 1” Tube Fly, a size 6 Treble or Double, or a size 4 Standard. In low water levels use a size 6 Standard and even smaller if very low - some anglers will drop down to 8 Standard or even 10 Standard. Fishery Report Brown Trout - All Beats The start of the Brown Trout Season opened on 15th March was marred by strong cold winds and the high water levels but on any milder day small hatches of large Dark Olives have been seen in sheltered areas where the water was a degree or two warmer. Few if any Trout anglers have been out but the occasional Brown Trout has been caught by Salmon anglers. A feature this year is that the Brown Trout seem to be in excellent condition for early spring. Prospects Brown Trout - All Beats Prospects are good. April will see hatches of large Dark Olives with the best hatches usually around mid-month and then petering out by the end of the month. In the early stages of the main hatches overcast conditions are best but once the hatches really start in earnest, they will continue even in bright sunlight. There will also be hatches of March Browns. The Eamont should start fishing well, a little after the Eden, from mid-April onwards and the Lowther a little later still. Brown Trout will often predominantly feed on Nymphs rather than the adult fly and when this is the case anglers who keep on the move catch well to upstream Nymph tactics. Some anglers will prefer to use wet fly tactics both upstream and downstream. If water levels are low, desist from wading and use a single Nymph rather than a team including heavier patterns. Single Wet Flies such as Waterhen Bloa, Black Spider and Black Magic can also work well. It is in these conditions that watercraft comes into its own : to identify where the Trout are feeding, wait for them to rise and make a delicate/accurate presentation. The best areas will be the heads of pools in the “faster and bubblier water”. It is essential to use a light rod and tippets as light as 1½ lbs. – 2 lbs. but on some days it is possible to get away with 3 lbs. The most successful dry fly patterns will be Olive ‘F’ Flies and Olive Klinkhammers in sizes 18 and sometimes 16. Takes will often be very gentle and when fishing upstream with Nymphs concentration is crucial for spot takes - if in doubt tighten as “it maybe a Trout!”, in early season Trout do not move very far. Too many anglers do not adjust the times they visit the river and adjust their tactics to the prevailing conditions, so all too often go away disappointed - often claiming “that there are few Trout in the river”! Nothing, of course could be further from the truth! Your fly box should also include : Nymphs, especially Pheasant Tail and Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear, in a variety of sizes both weighted and un-weighted ; Black Spiders sparsely tied, Black Magic and a selection of Dries including Olives and Grey Duster. On windy days clip the hackle underneath these Dry patterns. Wet fly patterns include : Waterhen Bloa, Snipe & Purple, Partridge & Orange, Partridge & Yellow and Greenwells. Hook sizes : 12 – 18 for Wets and 10 – 26 for Dries. Penrith Angling Association Andrew Dixon tel. no. 01768 88294 e-mail penrithaa@ukonline.co.uk website www.penrithanglers.co.uk The Association, established in 1850, now controls over 41 miles of bank on the Rivers Eden, Eamont, Lowther (on the Lowther Estate) and Petteril plus some minor tributaries. The additional 4 miles on the river Petteril have just been taken on by the Club - this stretch is for Members Only. These waters offer some of the best Wild Brown Trout and Grayling Fishing in the Country, set in the unspoilt and idyllic scenery of the Eden Valley. The Brown Trout Season opened on 15th March. Day Tickets are available. Anyone wishing to join Penrith Angling Association should contact the Secretary, Andrew Dixon - details above. Fishery Report See also Fishery Report - Condition of the Eden - All Beats above. The weather on Opening Day on 15th March was very inclement to say the least! There are no confirmed reports of anglers being out for Brown Trout. Anglers fishing for Grayling during the late winter inevitably catch the occasional Brown Trout and it is reported that this year they are in excellent condition. Prospects Brown Trout - see section above Prospects - All Beats. Eden Lacy Victor Gubbins - Tel.No. 01768 898316 e-mail : vgubbins@netcomuk.co.uk The Fishery offers 1.8 miles of water with good access to the river side for Salmon, Sea Trout, Brown Trout and Grayling* fishing. There is a Fishing Hut just upstream of The Caves Pool - vehicles can be parked in the nearby field with an easy short walk down to the Hut. There is a well appointed holiday cottage for weekly letting. With plenty of places to visit for non-anglers in the party, this is an ideal venue for an Early Spring fishing / holiday trip. Fishery Report See also Fishery Reports - Condition of River, Salmon and Brown Trout - All Beats above. No detailed reports have been received from this stretch. Prospects Salmon - see above section Prospects - All Beats Brown Trout - see above section Prospects - All Beats. Although many pools, riffles and glides hold Brown Trout, some of the best areas include : Top Beat - The Viaduct (above and below), The Falls and The Caves Pool ; Bottom Beat - above and below Tib Wood and below “Daleraven Bridge” to the bottom boundary of the Beat (Fishery). Lazonby Parish Council Permits from The Midland Hotel (Mrs. Ousby), Tel. no. 01768 898901 Approximately 1 mile from 200 yards below The Bridge at Lazonby to approximately ¾ mile upstream of The Bridge. Salmon, Sea Trout and Brown Trout and during the winter Grayling. Fishery Report See also Fishery Reports - Condition of River, Salmon and Brown Trout - All Beats above. No detailed reports have been received from this stretch. Prospects Salmon - see above section Prospects - All Beats Brown Trout - see above section Prospects - All Beats. Lazonby Estate Howard Oliver tel. no. 01768 898229 Ghillie - Edwin Tailford tel. no. 01228 560122 The Estate offers 4.5 miles of Salmon fishing with opportunities for some superb Wild Brown Trout also Sea Trout and Grayling. Rods available for Season, Week or Day, on this secluded, under-fished water. Fishing Huts on some of the main Beats - The Hut Stream (Route 1) and Croglin (Route 2 - between The Boulder Rock and The Red Rock) both on the Upper Water. Also at The Gully (Route 3) and Red Scar (Route 4), both on the Lower Water. There are barbecue facilities at the Fishing Hut at Red Scar. Accommodation can be arranged. Suggested accommodation : The Duke’s Head in Armathwaite, a pub/hotel, tel. no. 016974 72226 where the Owner is Henry Lynch and the Manager is Stephen. Alternatively there is a B & B,” Edendale”, in Kirkoswald – tel. Jane or Robert 01768 870127. Note that the Author, Patrick Arnold, has not visited or stayed at these establishments, thus they are merely suggested rather than recommended. Fishery Report See also Fishery Reports - Condition of River, Salmon and Brown Trout - All Beats above. In early March a number of Kelts were caught by Salmon anglers but the most recent by Doug Myers fishing The Gravel Beds for Grayling - it was a well mended Kelt that took a weighted Hare’s Ear Nymph and was landed on a 3 lb. leader and carefully returned to the water unharmed. In the second half of the month a visiting angler spinning in the tail of the Long Pool at the bottom end of the Top Beat landed a beautifully fresh Salmon of 9 lbs. In the same pool Estate Ghillie, Edwin Tailford, lost a fine Salmon but later in the week landed one 9 lbs. 8 ozs. from the pool at Red Scar on the Bottom Beat. A number of Salmon have been seen. On the opposite bank, The College Fishery, 3 Salmon have been landed, the most recent of 15 lbs. taken on a spinner. There are no confirmed Reports from the occasional Brown Trout anglers who have been out. The Grayling fishing ended on a good note. The Author, Patrick Arnold, fishing with Doug Myers at the beginning of March, landed a number of Grayling from The Meadows and The Gravel Beds. It was a beautiful spring morning and warm at mid-day and early afternoon, with a good early hatch of Large Dark Olives and small Black Midges. At times the Grayling were rising freely, particularly at The Meadows, with some caught on small Olive Klinkhammers. A number of Brown Trout were also seen. When cooler, Grayling were caught on Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Black Spiders and Partridge & Yellow. In the afternoon a cold northerly wind blew up and deep fished Czech Nymphs was the best approach. As reported above, Doug Myers landed a Kelt of 5 lbs. on a Hare’s Ear Nymph and 3 lb. leader. The river was in perfect condition for Grayling fishing - low and clear. This session really proved that in conditions like this anglers must be versatile and be prepared to change tactics rapidly as conditions change. Even in early March there can be hatches of flies. These points will apply equally to early season Brown Trout fishing. Prospects Salmon - see above section Prospects - All Beats Brown Trout - see above section Prospects - All Beats Although many pools, riffles and glides hold Brown Trout, some of the best areas include : Beat 1 (Top) - The Meadows, Top Hole Corner, The Gravel Beds and into The Wicket Pool ; Beat 4 (Lower) - The Oakwood Tail, Red Scar and Smithy Wath. Warwick Hall Estate The Keeper - Charlie Alderton Tel. no. 01228 562249 Website : www.warwickhall.org The Estate Waters are an acclaimed Salmon Fishery on the river Eden which also has a run of Sea Trout. There is some excellent Brown Trout and during the winter, Grayling fishing - both inexpensive. There are two beats - the Park Beat and the Top Beat each providing fishing for three rods. The superb pools are generally easy to fish and contain some of the best fly water on the Eden together with deeper pools suitable for spinning. Some of the water is fly only at certain heights. Situated in a lovely parkland setting with easy access by cars between pools. Facilities include a Rod Room, Toilets, Wash Room, Fishing Huts - at The Irthing and at Jackies Stream - and Boats on some pools. The Keeper will show tenants the river but should be notified on the previous day. Accommodation : there is a range of nearby accommodation from a Country House Hotel through to “Smart Pub” to Pubs. Fishery Report See also Fishery Reports - Condition of River, Salmon and Brown Trout - All Beats above. So far Warwick Hall has lived up to its name as “an acclaimed Salmon Fishery on the River Eden”. It has been a tremendous start to the 2004 Season - the best early season fishing for spring Salmon for many years. So far there have been 22 Salmon up to 18 lbs., a magnificent Sea Trout of 14 lbs. and another of just under 3 lbs. All these fish fell to spinning - Rapalas and Silver Toby. At the beginning of March Hugh Anderson whilst spinning at Jackies Stream landed a 15 lb. Salmon. In a 10 day period in the second half of the month 19 Salmon (as well as the 2 Sea Trout) were landed - 16 of these in one week. Venue regular Brian Holland who is a very experienced angler on these beats landed 12 of the 16 Salmon, he also landed the 2 Sea Trout!. Undoubtedly a week he will never forget! Nick Marriner also recorded his first Salmon of the season. This remarkable period was just after a big water at 6 ft. when it had dropped to 2 ft. 9 in. The most productive pool/beats have been The Park Beat, The Battery and The Rushes. Prospects Salmon - see above section Prospects - All Beats With the river in such good condition a visit to Warwick Hall is highly recommended. Brown Trout - see above section Prospects - All Beats. Although many pools, riffles and glides hold Brown Trout, some of the best areas include : Top Beat - from The Otter Stone down to the House Pool and The Gravel Beds ; Bottom Beat - from The Coops through Crow Wood ; The Irthing and Jackies Stream - around The Islands. Holmegate and Crosby James Carr - Tel. No. 01228 561993 Salmon, Sea Trout, Brown Trout and Grayling fishing. Fishery Report See also Fishery Reports - Condition of River, Salmon and Brown Trout - All Beats above. A number of Salmon have been caught on this stretch. Prospects Salmon - see above section Prospects - All Beats Brown Trout - see above section Prospects - All Beats Other Fisheries : Yorkshire Fly Fishers Club Fishery Report See also Fishery Reports - Condition of River, Salmon and Brown Trout - All Beats above. A number of Salmon have been caught. Prospects Salmon - see above section Prospects - All Beats Carlisle Angling Association. There are 4 miles of water for Salmon, Sea Trout, Brown Trout and Grayling fishing. Fishery Report See also Fishery Reports - Condition of River, Salmon and Brown Trout - All Beats above. No individual Report has been received. Prospects Salmon - see above section Prospects - All Beats IRTHING, GELT, KINGWATER AND CAMBECK Brampton Angling Association Bill Candeland tel. no. 01228 560916 e-mail : mailto:secretary@bramptonangling.fsnet.co.uk website : www.bramptonangling.fsnet.co.uk The Association was established in 1856 for the preservation of Trout in the rivers Irthing, Gelt and their tributaries. The whole of the Club’s Water is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and candidate Special Area of Conservation (cSAC). The area abounds with wildlife including Kingfishers, Red Squirrels, Deer and Otters. The Association controls some 4 miles of fishing on large sections of the river Irthing, a major tributary of the river Eden, running close to Hadrian’s Wall for much of its length and the rivers Gelt and Kingwater. With easy access to most stretches, its Waters vary from the boulder-strewn streams of the upper Gelt and Kingwater to the broader pools of the lower Irthing until it joins the Eden. The Irthing is a Wild Brown Trout and Grayling Fishery which has not been stocked for some 11 – 12 years. It tends to fish best in the early months of the season with May seeing fishing at its finest. Immediately following and for some time after a flood the water can be a brown colour stained by the peat bogs high on the Cumberland Waste. Wet Fly fishing using Traditional North Country Spiders including : Snipe & Purple, Snipe & Yellow, Partridge & Orange, March Brown and Greenwell’s are successful on the river Irthing during the early months of the season. Flies should vary in size between 12 – 16 depending on water height and colour. As a general rule “the darker the water the larger the fly”. Fishery Report The start of the season on 15th March brought high winds from the north and east, causing the Irthing to be in spate on a number of occasions. Although the weather settled down towards the end of the month conditions were not good for angling - hard frost over night, very low water temperatures and snow on the fells. No anglers have been out. Prospects Warmer weather, especially if the winds are from the south and west, will bring the Brown Trout on the feed over the mid-day period, with Traditional North Country patterns fished either downstream and across or upstream. Successful patterns will include : Snipe & Purple, Partridge & Orange, Waterhen Bloa and Greenwell’s Spider. As April progresses fishing times will extend either side of the mid-day period with good hatches of Olives between Wallholme and Gelt Foot. Trout will be in poor condition until the middle of April and should be handled with care before returning them to the river. The use of barbless hooks will assist this greatly. KENT General : The River Kent catchment comprises the main River Kent and two major tributaries, the River Sprint and the River Mint, with numerous other small tributaries. The headwaters of the River Kent are located in the upper Kentmere Valley, below The Ridge of the High Street Fells. Here the streams carry water into the Kentmere reservoir and then on down through the Kentmere Valley. Between Kentmere and Burneside the river corridor is dominated by agricultural land and then some woodland. The River leaves the Lake District National Park at Staveley where it is joined by the River Gowan. Around Burneside the land-use becomes more mixed with increased urban characteristics. Just below Burneside the River Kent is joined by one of its major tributaries, the River Sprint. A mile or so downstream - approximately 2 miles north of Kendal, the River Kent is now joined by its other major tributary, The Mint at a place known as The Meetings at the Gravel Trap. The River flows through the Market Town of Kendal, over the Stramongate Weir and on to Sedgwick, travelling through mainly agricultural land with some steeply banked wooded areas. The River also passes through numerous deep limestone troughs popular with salmon anglers at Hawes near Natland and at Sedgwick a short distance upstream of Force Falls. Downstream of Force Falls the River flows through Levens Park and on into the lower tidally effected River below Low Levens. There is a Fishery at Sampool. The Kent is one of the fastest flowing rivers in the Country. It is an important Salmon river, although runs of spring Salmon have declined in recent years, and also Sea Trout. Some stretches hold Brown Trout - both Wild and Stocked. It flows through some beautiful countryside and over weirs and waterfalls. There is abundant wildlife with Kingfishers, Squirrels and Otters. The Kent River system is a candidate European Special Area of Conservation (cSAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) to support the habitat of the White-clawed Crayfish and Freshwater Pearl Mussels. The Kent Rivers Improvement Group has been established to protect, conserve and improve the environment and habitat of the whole River Kent Catchment Area. The Group works very closely with the Environment Agency and English Nature, also all other relevant Bodies. Seasons - The Salmon season on the river Kent opens on 1st February and closes on 31st October. Salmon caught before 16th June must be returned to the water unharmed. The Brown Trout season opens on 15th March and closes 30th September. The Sea Trout season opens on 1st April and closes on 30th September. Guided Game Angling Days, Fly Fishing Instruction - Individual, Group and Courses - and Corporate Hospitality Days can be arranged with the Author, Patrick Arnold - English Lakes Fly Fishing. General : Fishery Report - condition of River Kent Water levels fluctuated and at times were very high during March. Fishery Report - Salmon Runs and Redd Counts The data from the Fish Counter at Basinghyll shows net upstream counts for this year to 18th March of 37 Salmon, 47 Sea Trout and 22 Herling. The high water levels prevented any further counting of redds. Fishery Report - Salmon - All Beats There is a report of a spring Salmon being caught spinning on one of the lower beats. Prospects - Salmon - All Beats Nowadays there is only a small run of Spring Salmon. These fish are generally only caught on the lower reaches of the river on the Private Syndicate Beats. Some fish will be caught on these beats during the months ahead. Salmon anglers will only be out on the middle and upper beats from the end of June or early July depending on the water levels and the first run of Grilse. The first runs of Sea Trout in the lower reaches are around May with some excellent fishing further up river in July and August depending on water levels. Prospects - Brown Trout There is Brown Trout fishing on the Beats controlled by Burneside & District Angling Association and Kent (Westmorland) Angling Association - see below. Burneside & District Angling Association Day Tickets : Jolly Anglers' Inn, Burneside 01539 732552 Burneside Post Office 01539 726114 The Club has vacancies for new members. For further information contact Stan Wilson, Mobile tel. no. 077 900 595 44. The Club water is on the upper stretch of the River below Staveley and through to just beyond Burneside. The upper beats are on undulating farmland whilst the middle beats have more urban characteristics and the lower beats returning to more open countryside where the Sprint joins the Kent. The upper beats offer some excellent opportunities for Brown Trout and later in the season all beats provide opportunities for Salmon and Sea Trout. Fishery Report For the condition of the Kent see Report above. See also Fishery Report Salmon - All Beats. Prospects Salmon - see section above Prospects - All Beats. Brown Trout - prospects are good if the water level doesn’t rise too much and the weather is reasonably mild. Early season tactics tend to be downstream Wet Fly. Try a Greenwell’s Glory on the dropper with a Black Pennell on the point. Black Spiders also work well. Some local anglers prefer Traditional patterns such as Alexandra, Teal Blue & Silver or Peter Ross. Hook size : normally 12 – 16 or in very high water size 10 with a faster retrieve. If the low water levels continue try Nymphs fished upstream - Pheasant Tail or Hare’s Ear both weighted and un-weighted. On mild days from mid-morning to early afternoon Brown Trout may be rising so be prepared for Dry Fly tactics. Kendal South Lakeland District Council own the Fishing Rights within the Town Boundaries and fishing is free to holders of an Environment Agency Rod Licence. Fishery Report For the condition of the Kent see Report above. See also Fishery Report Salmon - All Beats. Prospects Salmon - see section above Prospects - All Beats. Kent (Westmorland) Angling Association Chris Preston tel. no. 01539 568393 E-mail : enquiries@kentangling.co.uk Day Tickets available from Carlson's Fishing Tackle Shop, Kendal - Vera Carlson tel. no. 01539 724867 and Kendal Sports, Kendal - Andrew Atkinson tel. no. 01539 721554. Beats on the middle and lower stretches. The Club have the fishing on approximately 8 miles of water downstream to Force Bridge, near Sedgewick . The river flows through varied countryside some of it wooded and there are a number of interesting pools to fish. At Force Bridge there is a deep gorge. Beats include those at Watercrook to Helsington Weir, from Hawes through to the Old Gunpowder Weir and down to Force Bridge. The Club also has beats on the Mint and Sprint. Fishery Report For the condition of the Kent see Report above. See also Fishery Report Salmon - All Beats. Prospects Salmon - see section above Prospects - All Beats. Brown Trout - There are some good stretches for Brown Trout but like on many Salmon and Sea Treat rivers few anglers take advantage of these opportunities so information is sparse. Access to many of these stretches for Brown Trout (as against stretches for Salmon) is difficult for the visiting angler as local information on the numerous lanes is required. For non Club Members parking is also difficult as the gates to the Club’s car parks are locked and keys are not available for Day Ticket anglers. Do not be deterred! Seek information from the local Tackle Shop when obtaining your Day Ticket. It is a matter of following the Public Footpaths and looking for likely water. One of the best areas is downstream of The Weir at Watercrook. Anglers who persevere will be rewarded with some superb Wild (and stocked) Brown Trout fishing in almost under fished water until the Salmon season starts in mid-summer. Early season tactics similar to those outlined for the beats at Burneside (above) and also for the rivers Eden, Eamont and Lowther (above). Other Fisheries : Private Syndicates Downstream of Force Falls the River flows through Private Beats controlled by Levens Hall Estate, Dallam Tower Estate and Private Syndicates. Fishery Report For the condition of the Kent see Report above. See also Fishery Report Salmon - All Beats. Prospects Salmon - see section above Prospects - All Beats. Sampool Fishery Day Tickets : Mrs. Parsons tel. no. 015395 60096 There is a Fishery at Sampool by the Caravan Park Fishery Report For the condition of the Kent see Report above. See also Fishery Report Salmon - All Beats. Prospects Salmon - see section above Prospects - All Beats. OTHER RIVERS for Salmon and Sea Trout include : Duddon - this clear spate river rises above Wrynose Pass and flows through the picturesque Duddon Valley. This is a summer/autumn river for Salmon and Sea Trout. Millom & District Angling Association - David Dixon tel. no. 01229 774 241 - has a number of beats and Day Tickets are available. Seasons - The Salmon season on the river Duddon opens on 1st February and closes on 31st October. Salmon caught before 16th June must be returned to the water unharmed. The Brown Trout season opens on 15th March and closes 30th September. The Sea Trout season opens on 1st April and closes on 30th September. LANCASHIRE RIBBLE For Members of Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association there is an Exchange Ticket System with Ribchester Anglers. For further information contact Grahame Hall, tel. no. 015395 60614. Seasons - The Salmon season on the river Ribble opens on 1st February and closes on 31st October. Salmon caught before 16th June must be returned to the water unharmed. The Brown Trout season opens on 15th March and closes 30th September. The Sea Trout season opens on 1st April and closes on 30th September. The Grayling season opens on 16th June and closes on 14th March. Fishery Report Whilst there is no individual Report from this Fishery, the river at the end of March was normal for the time of year. Prospects Brown Trout With the river in fine condition at the beginning of April prospects are good. Tactics for April are similar to those outlined for the River Wharfe (below) and Rivers Eden, Eamont and Lowther (above). WEST YORKSHIRE WHARFE Bolton Abbey Estate Mark Whitehead tel. no. Estate Office 01756 710227 Mobile tel. no. 07752 887 556 Tickets are available for fishing the Bolton Abbey Estate Waters on the River Wharfe, a stretch of approximately 4.5 miles along both banks, from The Strid downstream to Kex Beck. Recommended Accommodation : Low Skibeden Farmhouse, situated within approximately 5 minutes of the river Wharfe. Traditional Yorkshire hospitality - the full English Breakfast should keep any angler going all day! Facilities to dry clothes. Flasks will be filled. Ample off road car parking. Many places to eat in the evening within 15 minutes drive. The Author, Patrick Arnold, has stayed here and recommends the farmhouse to anglers. Contact Mrs. Heather Simpson, tel. no. 01756 793849. Seasons - Day Tickets – Brown Trout : 1st April until 30th September Brown Trout and Grayling : 16th June until 30th September Grayling Only : 1st October until 31st December. Season Rod Members - Brown Trout : 25th March until 30th September Brown Trout and Grayling : 16th June until 30th September Grayling Only : 1st October until 31st December. Guided Game Angling Days, Fly Fishing Instruction - Individual, Group and Courses - and Corporate Hospitality Days can be arranged with the Author, Patrick Arnold - English Lakes Fly Fishing. Fishery Report At the end of March the river was at normal level for the time of year. On warmer days, especially in sheltered areas, there have been spasmodic hatches of large Dark Olives. The Brown Trout were well spread out. There are no confirmed reports from Season Rod Members who will have been out during the last few days of the month. Prospects With the river in good condition prospects for April are very promising, especially if the weather is reasonable. The river usually fishes well early season to a variety of tactics - normally fishing across and downstream with Wet Flies and Nymphs. In any low water conditions desist from wading - it will be a time for watercraft : identify where the Trout are feeding, wait for them to rise and make a delicate/accurate presentation. In low water conditions the best areas will be in the heads of pools in the “faster and bubblier water”. This is when it is essential to use a light rod and tippets - 1½ - 2 lbs. but sometimes 3 lbs. will be possible. Use Olive ‘F’ Flies and Olive Klinkhammers in size 18 and sometimes 16. Takes may be very subtle. Alternatively, try upstream nymphing or upstream Wet Flies fished singularly. Expect good hatches of large Dark Olives but sometimes the Trout will not follow the adult fly preferring to take the Nymphs instead. If the weather is particularly warm during the month there may be surface activity from small falls of Black Gnats. The most successful approach will be to keep on the move and prospect as much water as possible. Recommended Fly Patterns for April include : Wet - March Brown, Waterhen Bloa and Snipe & Purple ; Nymphs - Pheasant Tail and Hare’s Ear (for both weighted and un-weighted in a variety of sizes) ; Dry - Grey Duster, Double Badger, Olive ‘F’ Flies and Olive Klinkhammers. For further information on early season tactics see those outlined for the Rivers Eden, Eamont and Lowther. CUMBRIA - THE LAKE DISTRICT LAKES ULLSWATER Feature Article with All the News for the 2004 Season This is a beautiful, dramatic Water with Place Fell as a backdrop. The lake is almost 8 miles long and in some places ½ mile wide. It is the second largest lake in the Lake District. Some 1½ miles north of Glenridding is Gowbarrow Park where Wordsworth’s famous Golden Daffodil field is believed to be. Although it has never been accurately pinpointed, Dorothy Wordsworth described it in her writings. It was two years later that William Wordsworth wrote his famous poem “Daffodils” (“I wandered lonely as a cloud”) drawing heavily on his sister’s writings. Unfortunately, today there are few original daffodils to be seen here - some attempts are being made to replant them but this is controversial as they are not the original short stemmed species. Ullswater holds Char and Schelly. The Schelly is a slim silver scaled fish known colloquially as a “freshwater herring”, a rare and protected species which if caught must be returned to the water unharmed. These species are relics of the Ice Age. The Lake is a haven for anglers in search of Wild Brown Trout. Whilst averaging less than a 1 lb. these fish are spirited and every year a number over 2 lbs. are caught. Regular boat anglers frequently catch good baskets of these beautifully coloured fish, with some pairs (anglers) often recording up to 20 Trout per visit to a variety of fly fishing tactics. They return most of these Trout to the water unharmed. There are reports that the numbers of Wild Brown Trout appear to be falling but as yet there is insufficient evidence to say this with absolute certainty. There is growing concern about a few anglers keeping Trout of too small a size and that some are taking home large bags of Trout. Many believe that Ullswater is one of the best Wild Brown Trout lakes in the Country and if it is to remain this way then anglers must practice some restraint in terms of setting themselves a minimum size limit and a maximum bag limit each outing or if regular anglers each season. It has been suggested by anglers who care about the lake the minimum size limit for Brown Trout should be 300 mm (12 inches approximately) - somewhat above the legal minimum size of 200 mm (8 inches approximately) and maximum bag limit to take home of 4 Trout per outing. Some would argue that even this is too high and it should only be 2. Some local anglers are concerned about the practices of a few of the bait anglers - especially those using maggots during the period from 15th March to and including 15th June when it is illegal. Here at Ullswater there is an ideal opportunity for boat anglers to fish true loch style with a team of Traditional Wet Flies and Nymphs. There are hatches of Buzzers, spasmodic hatches of Mayfly at the end of May into June and falls of Terrestrials. The best day time fishing is from early April until mid-June. September can also be a good month. For bank anglers, there are a number of good areas off the A592 Glenridding to Pooley Bridge Road on the North-West Shore adjacent to the roadside. A good stretch is from Aira Point and fish down towards Glencoyne Bridge. When wading, beware of drop-offs and fish parallel to the shoreline. Weather conditions can change very rapidly on Ullswater but its close proximity to the rivers Eden, Eamont and Lowther, almost always ensures there is fishing for Brown Trout nearby. Alternatively there is the stillwater of Blencarn. Ullswater is a large and very deep Water where the Trout lie in very specific areas and for anglers who do not know the Lake, local knowledge should be sought. The weather can change very quickly so heed the advice you are given. Ullswater - the Angling Centre for Wild Brown Trout Ghillie / Guide Service The practical advice and knowledge of an experienced full-time Ghillie / Guide will be invaluable to enhance your day. Rod Hire available. Also, Fly Fishing Instruction and Corporate Hospitality Days. Contact : Patrick Arnold, English Lakes Fly Fishing, on tel. nos. 01229 889792 or 01229 889365 , e-mail : patrickarnold@englishlakesflyfishing.fsnet.co.uk Boats and Facilities Boats can be hired from Jared Smith at St. Patrick’s Boat Landing at Glenridding. The fleet of well maintained boats includes one “Angler’s Fancy” – a 17 ft. Burke’s boat which comes equipped with a 3 HP petrol engine and an electric engine - undoubtedly the best boat on the Lake. Contact : Jared Smith tel. no. 01768 482393. Booking is advisable. Other facilities include : Parking, Café (Breakfasts and Packed Lunches can be arranged), nearby Toilets, Angling Advice, Selection of Flies for Sale and Ghillie / Guide by prior arrangement with Patrick Arnold (see above). Accommodation The Eltermere Country House Hotel in Elterwater is an ideal venue at which to stay. Not only is it in driving distance to Glenridding at the top end of Ullswater, many other Waters in the area, but there is also much to do for the non-anglers in the party. This is a beautiful Georgian Country House set beside Elterwater Lake. The hotel is a short stroll from the centre of the Village set in the lovely Langdale Valley. The Author, Patrick Arnold, has stayed here and can recommend it as a peaceful and friendly hotel with a well deserved reputation for fine food and wine. The hotel caters for anglers and facilities include a drying room. There is a boat on Elterwater Lake which guests may use but booking is advised. For further information contact the Manager, Jonathan Philips, tel. no. 015394 37207, e-mail : info@eltermere.co.uk or visit their website : www.eltermere.co.uk For other recommended accommodation, The Punch Bowl at Askham, see under the rivers section for Eden, Eamont and Lowther - Penrith Anglers. This is an ideal centre to fish the middle beats of the Eden, also the Eamont and Lowther. Lake District National Park Information Centre at Glenridding : tel. no. 017684 82414. Fly Fishing Breaks in the English Lake District Guided Fly Fishing for Wild Brown Trout on Ullswater can be organized to include accommodation at either the Eltermere Country House Hotel at Elterwater or The Punch Bowl at Askham, also the Hire of the “Angler’s Fancy” boat at Glenridding to include Rod Hire, if required. Patrick Arnold will be your Angling Writer Host - an experienced Game Angling Ghillie / Guide and Fly Fishing Instructor who knows Ullswater and all its moods. In the event of inclement weather alternative fishing for Brown Trout can be organized on the nearby rivers Eden, Eamont and Lowther. Contact : Patrick Arnold, English Lakes Fly Fishing, on tel. nos. 01229 889792 or 01229 889365 , e-mail : patrickarnold@englishlakesflyfishing.fsnet.co.uk Fishery Report On Opening Day the conditions were wild! The first boat anglers of the season spent a few hours out in the comparative shelter of the South End. Since then a number of boat anglers have taken advantage of any better days and have been catching Brown Trout using traditional wet flies on intermediate lines. The level of the Lake is high. Prospects From early / mid April conditions should be right for fly fishing. Boat anglers should drift along the shoreline. In the last couple of years there has been a change of pattern with the Trout early season lying in 6 ft. to 8 ft. of water, rather than the outer side of the shelf in 10 ft. to 12 ft. of water. This year with the water level high be prepared to fish right up to the shoreline even in 2 ft - 3 ft. of water, especially if the weather is warm, as the Trout will be close to the bank. As always on lakes the depth of water is critical and anglers need to know the contours of the Lake - a general rule of thumb is “ensure you can see the bottom”. Early season expect to find the larger Trout first as they move in from the deeper water before the smaller ones but again if spring is early these smaller Trout may move in during April, rather than in May. A floating line will nearly always be more successful than an intermediate line - especially in the morning. Sometimes it is worth changing to an intermediate line in the afternoon. When using a floating line, use a long leader in conditions when Trout are feeding near or on the bottom or if windy use an intermediate line to keep the flies down - even in shallow water. If prospecting deeper water, but don’t stay too long here, use a DI-3 line. At this time of year Trout will be feeding on the bottom on Snails, Alder Larvae and Hog Lice. When retrieving “twitch the flies” with a fairly fast retrieve and the occasional long pull as this creates a wake with the bob fly. If the weather is very warm and mild there may be a few Lake Olives although these normally hatch in May. There is never a big hatch on Ullswater. Recommended patterns include : Traditional Wet Flies - Bibio, Blae & Gold, Black Pennell, Black Zulu, Mallard & Claret and Broughton Point - predominantly Black or Brown patterns also try the “Ullswater Series” (a series of loch and lake flies developed by Geoff Johnston, a regular angler on Ullswater, and available from John Norris of Penrith - tel. no. 01768 864211) ; Nymphs : Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear, Diawl Bach, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Larvae patterns and Stick Fly (on the point) - Nymphs should be weighted and un-weighted. The size of fly depends on the wave - the larger the wave the bigger the fly. Normally, size 12 or 14 (very occasionally size 10). Bigger flies create more wake and rise more fish but Wild Brown Trout come up fast and hit the fly hard, thus more Trout will be hooked on smaller sizes. As conditions change so will the size of fly needed. For bank anglers, there are a number of good areas off the A592 Glenridding to Pooley Bridge Road on the North-West Shore adjacent to the roadside - there are a number of parking places. A good stretch is from Aira Point and fish down towards Glencoyne Bridge. Bank anglers should fish parallel to the shoreline and when wading be aware of drop-offs. Try a team of flies with a Black Zulu on the top dropper, a Pheasant Tail Nymph on the middle dropper and a weighted Stick Fly on the point. WINDERMERE Windermere is England's largest natural Lake and with it's tree-lined banks and magnificent surrounding fells, one of the most beautiful. Windermere Lake in Decline for Wild Brown Trout Fishing Anglers should be aware that Windermere has not fished well for Brown Trout during the past two to three years at least. The numbers of Brown Trout caught have fallen but the average size has increased. Studies are being undertaken to ascertain some of the causes and much work is being done to improve the habitat in the spawning becks. Windermere used to be a noteworthy Wild Brown Trout Water but has declined rapidly during the past few years and the lack of Brown Trout has become a major concern as they are an indigenous species. There are a number of reasons for this including pollution in its various forms ; piscivorous birds, in particular Cormorants and the explosion of the Roach population combined with the diminution of fly life has changed the feeding habits of the remaining Trout, their size and where they lie. This is perhaps borne out by the very large Brown Trout being caught during the past 12 months on sea deadbaits fished in deep waters by Pike anglers. In the summer of 2003 Char anglers reported an increase in the number of Roach Pin Fry between ½ inch - ¾ inch and Char feeding on Pin Fry rather than Daphnia. Are all these reports a further indication of the changes in the Lake? It would definitely seem so, which is of great concern for the future of Wild Brown Trout fishing, and indeed Char fishing, on the Lake. This is not a complete analysis of the various serious problems on the Lake. The environment and wildlife on what should be ‘a special’ Water has been damaged. This must be reversed so future generations may enjoy this natural resource. Anglers continue to work hard to protect the Lake and improve future stocks of Wild Brown Trout. Many Habitat Restoration Projects have been undertaken. Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association (WADAA) in conjunction with the Environment Agency have created buffer strips by fencing off areas on Troutbeck. Already there has been a dramatic increase in the number of Redds WADAA has also completed the second phase of Habitat Improvement Work at Miller Beck, near Newby Bridge. The project was financed by WADAA and Leven Angling Association, assisted by E.A. Leven Project Officer, Dave Spiby. A further stretch of the beck was fenced to prevent stock over grazing and allow regeneration of bank side vegetation. Results from the first phase are good. The fry population is already on the increase. The small Brown Trout will drop back down the beck when they reach fingerling size to re-fresh the Windermere and river Leven system. Members of WADAA can assist these efforts to improve Windermere’s wild Brown Trout stocks as the Club has asked for volunteers to assist the E.A. on Sunday 29th August and Sunday 5th September on a couple of Working Parties to maintain the streams already cleared in time for next years spawning fish. Those members who can spare a full or half day to assist with this work are really needed and they should contact Dave Spiby at the E.A. on telephone number : 01768 866666. Environment Agency Fisheries staff have recently completed habitat restoration work with the co-operation of the landowner at Great Oaks Wood Beck, a tributary of Windermere’s south basin. Brown Trout were seen spawning proving that the work is both worthwhile and successful. The young Trout will now be able to make their way into the Lake and help with natural re-population. Restoration work has also been undertaken on another beck on the estate, Moss End Beck. The work has re-opened these small streams for spawning fish by improving access from the Lake and removing forestry debris from the stream bed and banks. Further work is planned for later this year on Low Cunsey Beck and the Environment Agency is looking at other small feeder becks that can be improved. A major start has also been made with excellent work be undertaken on the River Leven, part of the Windermere Catchment, by the Environment Agency funded by Windermere Ambleside & District Angling Association and the Leven Angling Association. Much more of this essential work needs to be done and with the formation of the Leven & Crake Conservation Trust the future looks brighter. The 10 m.p.h. Speed Limit on Windermere will be implemented as planned. Following further protests against the speed limit, the Lake District National Park Authority has recently re-confirmed that it is fully committed to enforcing the Bye-law when it comes into effect on the Lake on 29th March 2005. The comment was made to reassure other users of the Lake who have to suffer the serious problems created by fast power boats and water skiers. As the wash from these power boats damages the environment, habitat and wild Brown Trout nursery areas in the margins of the Lake, the implementation of the speed limit is a further measure that will help protect and develop fish stocks at a time when there is very great concern that the stock level of wild Brown Trout has seriously declined in recent years. The Review of Measures that Protect Cormorants is long overdue. In the 1970’s when the Cormorant population was declining they were placed on a protected species list. Their breeding has been so successful that there is now a winter population of over 23,000 in the U.K. alone! As their food is fish this is a major problem. In areas where flocks congregate, whole populations of fish can be annihilated. The Minister for Nature Conservation and Fisheries, Ben Bradshaw, M.P., has called for a review of the measures that give the Cormorants protected status. He proposes that Cormorants should now be managed at certain times of the year to protect the Fisheries and urges a review of the system granting licences to shoot Cormorants, currently issued by DEFRA. As Cormorants are a problem on the Lake any Review that leads to a reduction in Cormorants will be of further benefit to Wild Brown Trout stocks on Windermere and, of course, on other Waters. ~~~~~ Boats can be hired from : Fell Foot National Park tel. no. 015395 31273 ; Bowness Bay and Waterhead Bay (Ambleside) - Windermere Lake Cruises tel. no. 015395 31188. Ask for special rates for anglers - often available outside of the main tourist periods. Bank anglers should try the Graythwaite Shore along the 4 miles controlled by Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association - for further information contact Chris Sodo, tel. no. 015394 45083. Tickets from Tourist Information Centres. This shoreline is situated on the Western bank of Windermere's South Basin. Parking is available on the roadside or in the Fishery Car Park. Due to the very poor fishing for Wild Brown Trout on Windermere, Patrick Arnold does not recommend visiting anglers to go out and as such regrettably he is not currently organizing Guided Game Angling Days for Wild Brown Trout, Fly Fishing Instruction - Individual, Group and Courses - on this Water. For those interested in fishing for Wild Brown Trout on lakes he is organizing such events on Ullswater until fishing has improved on Windermere. Fishing for Char using Traditional Methods is still recommended and Char Fishing Trips and Corporate Hospitality Days can be arranged with the Author, Patrick Arnold - English Lakes Fly Fishing. Fishery Report Despite strong winds and driving rain from mid morning on Opening Day a number of hardy anglers ventured out at first light, top lining, with the first Brown Trout of approximately 12 ozs. landed by a keen local angler at 6.20 a.m. A couple of other, similar size Brown Trout were also caught. Since then anglers top lining have landed the occasional small Brown Trout. There are no reports of any anglers having been fly fishing. Prospects The South Basin is usually more “productive” during the early part of the season. Boat anglers should try around the Mid-water Islands keeping to the shallow water around the red buoys. Anglers who do not know the Water should take great care to ensure not actually grounding on these rocks, especially if conditions are choppy. Alternatively, drift loch style close to the shoreline keeping within a depth of 6 ft. – 8 ft. of water - anglers should always just be able to see the bottom. The wind direction will dictate which side of the Lake to fish but early in the season the western shoreline usually fishes better. Use a slime line to keep the flies down or a sinking line such as DI-3 if it is windy and the boat is drifting fast. If the weather is warm as April progresses, especially in the evenings, there should be hatches of Black Buzzers with the occasional Trout starting to move up in the water. These Buzzer hatches start in the South Basin where the best areas are likely to be Silverholme and Grassholme. The evening is the best time to be out on the water provided there isn’t a cold East wind. Tactics will change to floating lines with Buzzer Pupa and if conditions are right, Emergers and Dries. Recommended patterns include : Mallard & Claret, Black Pennell, Bibio and Blae & Black. Hook size 10 – 14 depending on the wave. Other good early season patterns are : Caddis - Stick Fly - on the point, Ombudsman and Cock Robin. Char fishermen will be out particularly in the South Basin but the best is yet to come. Competition News……. Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association Competitions on Windermere for Club Members : The Maurice Martindale Fly Fishing Competition is on Sunday 25th April at Bowness Bay and the Jim Tierney Fly Fishing Competition is on Sunday 8th May at Waterhead Bay, Ambleside. For further information contact : John Newton, tel. no. 015395 38869. OTHER LAKES AND TARNS for Brown Trout include : Coniston ; Buttermere ; Crummock Water ; Loweswater ; Ennerdale Water ; Haweswater ; Derwent Water ; Blea Water ; Blea Tarn, Langdale ; Blea Tarn, Watendlath ; Hayeswater ; Yew Tree Tarn ; Moss Eccles and Devoke Water. To help visiting anglers to the Lake District explore the myriad of Waters from lakes to tarns - many of them remote and high up in the fells - this section will be expanded further during 2004. Here in the Lake District there is the finest Wild Brown Trout fishing in the Country, set amongst stunning scenery. For those going to the remotest of Waters it is essential to first of all obtain a weather forecast and equip oneself with suitable clothing, a map, compass also food and drinks (hot and cold). Whilst many anglers are against, rightly so, the use of mobile telephones on Fisheries they do have a safety role in the very remote areas (assuming they work). Anglers should preferably travel in pairs or small groups and always inform someone at home where they are going and when they should return. General Prospects Although these Waters opened on 15th March, at the beginning of the Brown Trout season, few anglers will be out until the weather warms up during the spring. One of the exceptions is Moss Eccles Tarn (See details below). Coniston Situated approximately 5 miles west of Windermere, Coniston is a thin lake, almost 5 miles long and a ¼ mile wide surrounded by pleasant meadow land and stunning fells. Bank anglers can access the Water from the following areas : East Shore - at Low Peel Near, Bailiff’s Wood, Machells Coppice and Monk Coniston. The shoreline from Machells Coppice (Brantwood) to Low Peel Near car park is a popular stretch. West Shore - at Sunny Bank. Buttermere Although there will be many walkers during the summer, Buttermere remains remarkably unspoilt and yet is still a refuge of peace and tranquillity. There are the majestic towing hills overlooking the lake - Hay Stacks, High Crag, High Stile and Red Pike. The shore path is easy to walk on and one passes some gentle dairy pasture giving the lake its name. One can admire the cascading waterfalls and mountain streams with some of the wildest of the Lake District’s unique scenery. There are hotels, pubs and guest houses including in the village of Buttermere. The fishing on Buttermere is controlled by the National Trust. Permits are available from Mr. & Mrs. Parker, Dalegarth Guest House, Buttermere, tel. no. 017687 70233 or e-mail : dalegarth.buttermere@rdplus.net Two rowing boats (engines are not allowed) are available for hire. Access to through the grounds of Dalegarth Guest House - parking for anglers cars is usually available in the Guest House/Campsite Car Park. The boats are approximately 3 minutes walk from the Car Park. The oars are kept at the gate leading down to the pathway and have to be carried down to the boats. The Lake is worth the effort for the scenery alone with nice picnic areas for the non-anglers in the party with seats along some of the shoreline. Buttermere must surely be a Water worth exploring for Wild Brown Trout? The Water also contains Char, Pike and Perch. Crummock Water This lake is over 2 miles long and is situated between Loweswater and Buttermere. It contains Wild Brown Trout averaging 1 lb. but there are a few up to 4 lbs. - always a chance of a Wild Brown Trout of a life time. Permits and Boat Hire are available from Mrs. McKenzie, Woodhouse, Buttermere, tel. no. 01768 770208. Day Permits were during 2003 £3.00 ; Boat Hire, including Fishing Permit, £16.00 per day, or £12.00 after 12 noon. Loweswater Loweswater contains Wild Brown Trout. Permits and Boat Hire are available from Mr. & Mrs. Leck, Water End Farm, Loweswater, tel. no. 01946 861465. Day Permits were during £3.00 ; Boat Hire, including Fishing Permit, £15.00 per day, or £10.00 after 12 noon. Ennerdale Information will be included for 2004. Haweswater Reservoir Information will be included for 2004 Derwent Water Fly fishing for Brown Trout on Derwent Water has unfortunately deteriorated during the last few years. There are a number of reasons for this including no recent stockings being undertaken. The best fly fishing is during the hatches of Mayfly which usually start about 1st June and on a good year can continue almost up to the end of June. Every year there are variations in dates depending on weather conditions. The hatches of Mayfly are no longer as good as they used to be - unfortunately this is the case on many Waters these days. During this period Trout are taken on Mayfly patterns - Nymphs, Emergers and Duns. Some anglers also use traditional wet flies including a wet Mayfly pattern. At other times Trout can be caught on traditional wet flies and unless they are clearly feeding on a particular fly the author, Patrick Arnold, seldom fishes loch style for Wild Brown Trout without a Bibio on the top dropper. The best results come from fishing in a boat around the Islands - in particular Lone Tree Island - where the water is a lot shallower and usually averages 8 ft. to 10 ft. depending on the level of the lake. Most of the Trout are between a half pound and three-quarters of a pound. There are occasional Trout between 2 and 4 lbs. plus. Almost every year a larger Trout of between 6 – 7 lbs. are taken by Pike anglers trolling lures. Whilst it is still possible to have an enjoyable day on Derwent Water and boat a couple of Wild Brown Trout most local anglers have deserted this Water in favour of Ullswater. Alternatively, they visit Watendlath Trout Fishery where there is some excellent sport for Rainbow Trout. Another problem at Derwent Water in summer are tourists who can somewhat spoil a quiet day’s fishing! Derwent Water is controlled by Keswick Angling Association and further information can be obtained from Mike Tinnion, tel. no. 01768 772127. Permits available from : Field & Stream, Keswick, tel. no. 01768 774396 ; Keswick Tourist information, tel. no. 01768 772645. Boats available from : Keswick Launch Company, Lakeside, Keswick tel. no. 01768 772263. Blea Water This tarn is high in the fells above Haweswater. It is a 20 acre upland tarn holding small Wild Brown Trout. This Water is very exposed. Anglers must take great care as the weather can close in very quickly. It is a Water for keen and experienced walkers rather than anglers. Blea Tarn, Langdale There are a number of remote Waters in the Lake District with the name “Blea”, which is the ancient Norse word for Blue, thus causing confusion. Blea Tarn, Langdale, is the “Blea Tarn” normally fished by anglers as it is more accessible. The National Trust are the Fishery Controller for this Water. Directions : To reach this Water from Ambleside, take the road towards Skelwith Bridge and the Langdales. Follow the road through Elterwater into Great Langdale and continue on the B5343 until the road climbs a steep hill out of the valley. Keep going to the top. Blea Tarn lies in the valley ahead. Fishing : This is a tiny moorland tarn of approximately 1 acre with a head of small Wild Brown Trout. Fly patterns : try Terrestrials, Black Buzzers or traditional wet flies. A Permit is required - this can be obtained from Mrs. Myers at Blea Tarn Farmhouse. The latest information from the National Trust for 2003 was the charge was £2.50 per day. Bank fishing only - boats not permitted. Blea Tarn, Watendlath This tarn is sometimes referred to as Blea Tarn, Borrowdale. This is another small moorland tarn of approximately 1 acre with a head of small Wild Brown Trout. The tarn is controlled by the National Trust and fishing is free for holders of Environment Agency Licences. This Water is rarely fished and only by those who are keen and experienced walkers. Hayeswater Reservoir, Patterdale Hayeswater is a 34 acre water supply reservoir situated some 9 miles north of Ambleside at Hartsop, to the east of the A592, Windermere to Ullswater (Kirkstone Pass) road. The Fishery offers good fly fishing for Wild Brown Trout. Parking is currently at the Public Car Park at Hartsop, approximately a mile and a half from the reservoir. It is a steep climb to the reservoir. Warm clothing is essential. Fishing is strictly fly only with barbless hooks. Permits from : Tourist Information Centres. This is not an early season Water. Yew Tree Tarn This tiny Tarn is easily found from Skelwith Bridge. Take the A593 over the River Brathay towards Coniston. In approximately 3 miles the road skirts Yew Tree Tarn. There is a Parking Bay. Tickets can be obtained from Nicholson’s Sports or The Sun Hotel, both in Coniston and from the Coniston Tourist Information Centre. Moss Eccles Dave Helm tel. no. 01229 585342 Moss Eccles, an SSSI (Site of Specific Scientific Interest), is an upland Tarn stocked by Windermere, Ambleside & District Angling Association with Brown Trout that fishes well once the weather warms up at the end of March/early April. The 20 minute steep climb up to this Water is well worth it due to the view and tranquillity. Prospects If the weather is mild, or on a warmer day, this Water can be worth a visit. Use a floating line with a long leader or an intermediate line with Traditional Wet Flies or Nymphs. Recommended Patterns : Mallard & Claret, Bibio, Black Pennell, Pheasant Tail Nymph and Stick Fly. Devoke Water This is another remote tarn of 25 acres containing Wild Brown Trout and stocked Brown Trout. The Water is controlled by Millom Angling Association and further information can be obtained from David Nixon, tel. no. 01229 467211. Permits available from : Haverigg Post Office, tel. no. 01229 772 338 ; Waberthwaite Post Office, tel. no. 01229 717 237 and Bridge Garage, Holmrook, tel. no. 01946 724247 ~~~~~ Author - this Report , updated regularly, is submitted by Patrick Arnold : Local Angler regularly Fly Fishing the Cumbrian and North Lancashire Rivers, Lakes, Tarns and Stillwaters for Salmon, Sea Trout, Grayling, Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. He also fishes throughout the United Kingdom, Ireland and Austria. Patrick’s speciality is fishing for Wild Brown Trout from boat and riverside, a very knowledgeable and experienced boat angler. He is a competent Fly Fishing Competition Angler on the National Circuit. Patrick is a prolific Angling Writer - Angling Correspondent for : The Westmorland Gazette (“Angling in the Lake District” by Buzzer); BBC Radio Cumbria - including their Resident Angling Doctor on their Fishing Section of their Sports website : http://www.bbc.co.uk/cumbria/sport/fishing/ ; Fishing in the English Lake District www.lakedistrictfishing.net ; Angling News www.anglingnews.net and Northern Game Angler Magazine www.northerngameanglermag.co.uk Patrick’s Angling Articles, Reports and Fly Fishing Hints & Tips are on his website : www.englishlakesflyfishing.co.uk He is a Member of the Angling Writers' Association and in 2002 received the AWA Local Newspaper Column Runner Up Award for his articles in the Westmorland Gazette. Patrick is well known for his Lectures and less formal Talks on a wide range of angling topics including “Anglers and Conservation”. Patrick is a Founder Member, Secretary and Treasurer of the Kent Rivers Improvement Group, a Member of the Environment Agency North West, Regional Fisheries, Ecology and Recreation Advisory Committee (RFERAC), Furness and South Cumbria Fisheries Consultative Association, the Lakeland Fly Dressers’ Guild and Angling Clubs both in England and Ireland. He has recently been an Executive Officer and Committee Member of a number of National, Regional and Local Committees. Patrick has been appointed by some Fisheries as a Game Angling Instructor and Guide / Ghillie, also by a number of nearby Hotels as their Resident Fly Fishing Expert. Patrick is a skilled full time Fly Fishing Instructor, Game Angling Guide and Ghillie offering Instruction Courses, Fly Fishing Days/Holidays and Corporate Hospitality Days. He has the J.A.G.B. Level 1 Course Certificate and the Certificate of Attendance from sports coach UK having attended a Course in Good Practice & Child Protection. sports coach UK is The National Coaching Foundation. He also holds a Certificate in First Aid. English Lakes Fly Fishing is an Approved Test Centre for Greys of Alnwick (fly fishing rods) www.greysrods.co.uk – the latter is based at Esthwaite Water. For further information contact Patrick Arnold at English Lakes Fly Fishing : e-mail – patrickarnold@englishlakesflyfishing.fsnet.co.uk Tel: 01229 889792 or 01229 889365 Address : “Fellside”, Kirkby-in-Furness, Cumbria LA17 7UF. Website : www.englishlakesflyfishing.co.uk

Click here to return to Angling News page.