If you’re looking for a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, fly fishing in Derbyshire’s lakes and rivers is an excellent option. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, Derbyshire’s waters offer a diverse range of opportunities for you to explore. From the limestone rivers of the Peak District to the tranquil lakes near Leek, there’s something for everyone.
Derbyshire is home to some of the best carp fishing lakes in the country, as well as excellent fly fishing opportunities. The limestone rivers of Derbyshire have a special place in the history of fly fishing, as they were the subject of the first detailed writing about the sport. The Derbyshire Wye is famous for being the only river in the United Kingdom with wild rainbow trout, as well as wild brown trout. Whether you’re looking for a challenging day on the water or a relaxing afternoon with family and friends, Derbyshire’s lakes and rivers are sure to impress.
Lakes in Derbyshire for Fly Fishing
Derbyshire is home to some of the most beautiful and serene lakes for fly fishing in the UK. From the peaceful surroundings of Farnah Lake to the stunning views of Birch House Lakes, there is something for every angler in Derbyshire.
Here are some of the best lakes in Derbyshire for fly fishing:
| Lake Name | Location | Fish Species |
|---|---|---|
| Farnah Lake | Matlock | Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout |
| Birch House Lakes | Ashbourne | Carp, Bream, Tench, Roach, Rudd |
| Yeaveley Estate | Ashbourne | Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout |
| Glazebrook’s Pool | Chesterfield | Carp, Tench, Roach, Rudd |
| Grimley’s Ponds | Chesterfield | Carp, Tench, Roach, Rudd |
Farnah Lake is a beautiful and peaceful lake located in Matlock. The lake is stocked with both brown and rainbow trout, making it a great destination for fly fishing. The lake is surrounded by stunning scenery, providing anglers with a peaceful and enjoyable fishing experience.
Birch House Lakes is a family-run fishery located in Ashbourne. The fishery offers 10 pleasure and match fishing lakes across 15 acres of water. The lakes are stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, tench, roach, and rudd. The fishery also provides ample parking for visitors.
Yeaveley Estate is a stunning fishery located in Ashbourne. The estate’s one and a half acre lake has been described as perhaps the finest small dry-fly lake in Derbyshire. The lake is stocked with both brown and rainbow trout, providing anglers with a challenging and rewarding fishing experience.
Glazebrook’s Pool is a popular fishery located in Chesterfield. The pool is stocked with carp, tench, roach, and rudd, making it a great destination for fly fishing. The pool is surrounded by stunning scenery, providing anglers with a peaceful and enjoyable fishing experience.
Grimley’s Ponds is a family-run fishery located in Chesterfield. The fishery offers two ponds stocked with carp, tench, roach, and rudd. The ponds are surrounded by stunning scenery, providing anglers with a peaceful and enjoyable fishing experience.
Rivers in Derbyshire for Fly Fishing
Derbyshire is a great destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, with a number of rivers offering excellent opportunities for anglers. Here are some of the top rivers in Derbyshire for fly fishing:
River Derwent
The River Derwent is a popular river for fly fishing in Derbyshire. It is known for its brown trout and grayling, and there are also some salmon and sea trout in the river. The river flows through the Peak District National Park and offers some stunning scenery for anglers. Fly fishing on the River Derwent is usually done using dry flies and nymphs, and the best time to fish is from April to October.
Access points on the Derwent
- Matlock: Matlock is a popular starting point for anglers looking to fish the River Derwent. You can access the river from various points in and around Matlock.
- Belper: Belper is another town along the River Derwent that provides access to fishing spots. The river runs through the town, offering various opportunities for anglers.
- Duffield: Duffield is known for its scenic stretches of the River Derwent, and you can find fishing spots in this area.
- Ambergate: Ambergate is located on the A6 road and offers access to the river, making it a good spot for fishing.
- Whatstandwell: This village along the river also provides opportunities for anglers to enjoy fishing in the River Derwent.
- Darley Dale: Darley Dale is another location where you can access the river for fishing. It’s located just south of Matlock.
- Cromford: Cromford is a historic village with the river flowing through it. You can find fishing spots in this area.
River Wye
The River Wye is another popular river for fly fishing in Derbyshire. It is a clear, fast-flowing river that is known for its brown trout and grayling. The river flows through the Peak District National Park and offers some great scenery for anglers. Fly fishing on the River Wye is usually done using dry flies and nymphs, and the best time to fish is from April to October.
Access points to fish the Wye
- Bakewell: Bakewell is one of the most famous towns along the River Wye and offers excellent fishing opportunities. The river here is known for its brown trout, grayling, and sometimes salmon. There are fishing clubs and associations in the area that can provide permits and information.
- Ashford-in-the-Water: This picturesque village is located just downstream from Bakewell and also offers fishing access to the River Wye. It’s known for its scenic surroundings and great fishing spots.
- Haddon Hall: The historic Haddon Hall, near Bakewell, has stretches of the River Wye running through its estate. Some fishing opportunities may be available here, but it’s essential to check with the estate for any specific rules and permits.
- Rowsley: The village of Rowsley is another location along the River Wye that provides fishing access. It’s worth contacting local fishing clubs or associations for information on permits and fishing regulations.
- Matlock: The River Wye flows through Matlock in Derbyshire. While it may not be as famous for fishing as some of the upstream areas, there are still opportunities to catch fish in this section of the river.
- Buxton: Further upstream in the Peak District, you can explore fishing opportunities around the town of Buxton, which is also located along the River Wye.
River Dove
The River Dove is a small river that is known for its brown trout and grayling. It flows through the Peak District National Park and offers some great scenery for anglers. Fly fishing on the River Dove is usually done using dry flies and nymphs, and the best time to fish is from April to October.
Access points to fish the Dove
- Dovedale: Dovedale is one of the most famous and picturesque locations along the River Dove. It offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing for brown trout. The area is known for its stunning limestone gorges and clear waters.
- Thorpe: Thorpe is a village located near Dovedale and provides access to the River Dove. Anglers can find fishing spots in this area and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside.
- Ilam: Ilam is another village in the vicinity of Dovedale that offers fishing access to the River Dove. It’s known for its lovely landscapes and historic buildings.
- Hartington: Hartington is a charming village situated along the River Dove and offers opportunities for fishing. It’s a great place to explore the river and its surroundings.
- Mayfield: Further downstream along the River Dove, you’ll find the village of Mayfield. This area also provides fishing access and opportunities for anglers.
- Etwall: The River Dove flows through Etwall, a village in southern Derbyshire. Anglers may find fishing opportunities in this section of the river.
River Lathkill
The River Lathkill is a small river that is known for its brown trout and grayling. It is a clear, fast-flowing river that flows through the Peak District National Park. Fly fishing on the River Lathkill is usually done using dry flies and nymphs, and the best time to fish is from April to October.
Access points
- Lathkill Dale: Lathkill Dale is a popular location along the River Lathkill. The dale is known for its stunning limestone scenery and offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing for brown trout. The crystal-clear waters make it a favorite among anglers.
- Monyash: The village of Monyash is located near Lathkill Dale and provides access to the River Lathkill. There are fishing spots in this area, and anglers can enjoy the tranquil surroundings while fishing for brown trout.
- Over Haddon: Over Haddon is another nearby village that offers fishing access to the River Lathkill. The river here flows through picturesque countryside, and it’s an excellent spot for anglers seeking brown trout.
- Youlgreave: The village of Youlgreave is situated downstream from Lathkill Dale and provides opportunities for fishing along the River Lathkill.
River Manifold
The River Manifold is a small river that is known for its brown trout and grayling. It is a clear, fast-flowing river that flows through the Peak District National Park. Fly fishing on the River Manifold is usually done using dry flies and nymphs, and the best time to fish is from April to October.
Access points
- Wetton: Wetton is a village located near the River Manifold and provides access to the river for fishing. The river here offers opportunities for brown trout and grayling fishing.
- Ilam: The village of Ilam, near the River Dove, is also in proximity to the River Manifold. You can find fishing spots in this area, with the opportunity to catch brown trout and grayling.
- Thor’s Cave: Thor’s Cave is a popular landmark and offers access to the River Manifold. Anglers can explore the river in this area and enjoy fishing for brown trout and grayling.
- Ecton: The village of Ecton is situated downstream along the River Manifold and provides additional fishing access. It’s a location where anglers can try their luck at catching brown trout and grayling.
Overall, Derbyshire offers some great opportunities for fly fishing on its rivers. Anglers can enjoy stunning scenery and a variety of fish species while fly fishing on these rivers.
Best Seasons for Fly Fishing in Derbyshire
When it comes to fly fishing in Derbyshire, the best seasons to fish depend on the type of fish you want to catch and the location you choose. Generally, the best seasons for fly fishing in Derbyshire are spring and autumn.
Spring
Spring is a great time to fly fish in Derbyshire. This is because the rivers and lakes are starting to warm up after the winter months, which means that the fish are becoming more active. The water levels are also usually higher, which makes it easier to catch fish. In terms of flies, you can expect to see a lot of Large Dark Olives and Grannom hatches early in the year. These flies are perfect for catching brown trout, which are abundant in Derbyshire.
Summer
Summer can be a challenging time for fly fishing in Derbyshire. This is because the water levels are usually lower, which means that the fish are more cautious. However, if you are patient and persistent, you can still catch fish during the summer months. You can expect to see a lot of Caddis flies and Terrestrials during the summer, which are perfect for catching rainbow trout.
Autumn
Autumn is another great season for fly fishing in Derbyshire. This is because the water levels are usually higher again, which means that the fish are more active. You can expect to see a lot of Mayflies trickling off during early June, which are perfect for catching brown trout. You can also expect to see a lot of Caddis flies and Terrestrials during the autumn months, which are perfect for catching rainbow trout.
Winter
Winter can be a challenging time for fly fishing in Derbyshire. This is because the water levels are usually very low, which means that the fish are less active. However, if you are willing to brave the cold weather, you can still catch fish during the winter months. You can expect to see a lot of small nymphs and dry flies during the winter, which are perfect for catching rainbow trout.
Overall, the best seasons for fly fishing in Derbyshire are spring and autumn. However, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can still catch fish during the summer and winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best places to fly fish for trout in Derbyshire?
Derbyshire has many wonderful places to fly fish for trout. Some of the best places to fly fish for trout in Derbyshire include the River Wye, River Derwent, River Dove, and Ladybower Reservoir. These locations are known for their beautiful scenery and excellent fishing opportunities.
What are some good fly fishing spots along the River Dove in Derbyshire?
The River Dove is a popular fly fishing destination in Derbyshire. Some of the best fly fishing spots along the River Dove include Beresford Dale, Milldale, and Dovedale. These locations are known for their clear waters and abundant trout populations.
What are the top trout fisheries in Derbyshire?
Derbyshire has many top trout fisheries that are popular among fly fishers. Some of the top trout fisheries in Derbyshire include Carsington Water, Ladybower Reservoir, and Eyebrook Reservoir. These fisheries are known for their large trout populations and beautiful scenery.
What is the best way to access the River Wye for fishing in Bakewell?
The River Wye is a popular destination for fly fishing in Bakewell. The best way to access the River Wye for fishing is to park in the town centre and walk down to the river. There are many access points along the river, and the fishing is excellent throughout the season.
What are some popular rivers for trout fishing in the Peak District?
The Peak District is home to many popular rivers for trout fishing. Some of the most popular rivers for trout fishing in the Peak District include the River Derwent, River Wye, and River Dove. These rivers are known for their clear waters and excellent trout populations.
Which angling clubs in Derbyshire offer fly fishing opportunities?
There are several angling clubs in Derbyshire that offer fly fishing opportunities. Some of the most popular angling clubs in Derbyshire include Derbyshire County Angling Club, Bakewell Fly Fishing Club, and Ashbourne Fly Fishing Club. These clubs offer access to some of the best fly fishing locations in Derbyshire and are a great way to meet other fly fishers in the area.