DERWENT

The largest of the Peak Disctrict rivers, the Derbyshire Derwent rises near Howden Moors, gathering various tributaries along its 66 miles before it joins the Trent, south of Derby. The majority of the river flows through the Peak District, and was once the very cradle of the industrial revolution, powering the many textile mills of Derbyshire. The quality of the water in the Derwent watershed makes for a river which is rich in both aquatic insects and many different species of fish.

Derwent River Fly Fishing
Derwent Fly Fishing

ABAS offers guided fly fishing on some of the most prime game fishing water on the Derwent, in association with the Peacock Fly Fishing Club and the Haddon Estate. The prevalent species here is the brown trout, and you’ll find them in good numbers through our three miles of fishing. Each year the river produces a number of larger specimens, and with a policy of not stocking the river these large wild fish are given the best opportunity to grow on. There is a very large and healthy grayling population, which will not only rise to a dry fly but also take a spider or nymph willingly, which provides the angler with opportunities in any conditions. There is also a small but growing number of wild rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in the Derwent here, owing to the river Wye joining the Derwent on the Peacock water.

With over three miles of river available and a huge diversity in the water, there really is something for everybody on the Derwent. With the prolific hatches come some superb dry fly opportunities throughout the season, starting with the Large Dark Olives and finishing with a lengthy hatch of sedges. In between you’ll discover an excellent Mayfly hatch amongst a plethora of other bugs – both aquatic and terrestrial The Derwent also lends itself perfectly to fishing sub-surface, with a mix of gravelly riffles, pocket water and bedrock bends, so if you’re looking to learn some of the more modern methods of fishing nymphs then spending some time on the Derwent with ABAS will be time well spent.

Derwent Fly Fishing
Derwent Fly Fishing

ABAS can provide the kit you need to make the very most of your time on the Derwent, so there really is no need to bring too much! Pack your waders, eye protection and the correct outdoor clothing and let us take care of the rest. With some specialist kit on show, we’ll make sure you go away with a full understanding of the very best practices on freestone rivers like the Derwent.

Fly Fishing Price List

Trip Type Single Person Two People
Full Day £250 £350
Half Day £160 £225