Kirkby Stephen and District Angling Association
Wild brown trout fishing at its best will be found in the upper Eden. Rocky glides, pools and runs alternate as the river flows swiftly down from the heights of Mallerstang Common, augmented by its attractive ghylls and becks. Kirkby Stephen Angling Association controls some 9 miles of fishing on the main river with a further 4 on the Belah and Scandal Beck. Much of this is fly fishing only and brown trout are not small and can be relied upon to provide lively sport.
In the upper reaches the river level varies considerably and will begin clear in low water and well coloured after heavy rain in the surrounding fells, in spring through to late summer. Good times to catch the right water are one to two days after a spate. Although a dry spell can be a challenge, evening fishing may be extremely productive, whilst days can be spent searching pools and under trees. The banks can be gravel, sand or rock and the depth of the water can vary quite dramatically but wading will not necessarily catch any more fish and needs to be undertaken with care. Favoured spots are within easy walking distance of the local roads, the many bridges being a good place to start. Stiles and usually gates, are provided in these areas.
In April and May, fishing is usually best in the early afternoon as the water temperature rises but even a cold wind can produce hatches of olives to which a Blue Quill is often a good response. Medium Olive, Greenwell, wet or dry, Snipe and Purple are also useful. The mid-season can follow on with Iron Blue, Grey Duster, Black Gnat, Blue-Winged Olive and with Dark Olive in the evenings.
In August and September, try Winged Blue Duns, Pheasant Tail, Knotted Midge, Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear. Evening fishing really comes into its own with the warmer nights when even shallow stretches can seem to be overrun with monsters and evening flies such as Sedges, Coachman and moth imitations will usually fit the bill. The water, the flies, the weather, the mood of the fish are all sent to test and fulfil the keen angler.
Grayling fishing from Musgrave downstream with small Treacle Parkin and Red Tag flies can also be productive. The shoals are often found at the tails of pools and glides and if stealthily fished from below, they can find an induced take presentation irresistible.
