Darlington Brown Trout AA South Bank – Middleton-in-Teesdale to Lune Mouth

River level

The lowdown

• This is the Middleton-in-Teesdale south-bank stretch, starting by the cattle market and B6277 bridge. The association gives the length as approximately 1,300 metres, while Fishing Passport lists it as approximately 1.5 miles.
• It’s got considerable character, with most of the water running beneath trees. Expect a proper river feel rather than tidy, open banks and easy access all the way along.
• The wading is described as average, but don’t switch off. Steep river-bank sides need care, and a wading staff is recommended. Bob on advice for a river that can move about.
• The Tees can rise quickly, so check river levels and the weather before setting off. A touch of colour and extra pace can change the fishing in no time.
• Brown trout are the main fly target, with spiders, nymphs and dry flies all suggested. Work the likely lies around the creases, steady glides and any softer water tucked out of the main push.
• Winter grayling fishing is specifically highlighted. That’s a nice cheeky change of pace when the trout season is out of the picture, with careful presentation doing the business.
• Salmon are also named for the stretch. The suggested tackle includes switch rods up to 14 feet, with low-water doubles or tubes where appropriate.
• Trout tackle is fairly light: a 9–10 foot rod rated around line class 3/4/5. Keep things neat under the trees and be ready for a lively fish in running water.
• Fishing is fly-only, and dogs aren’t allowed. Daily availability is capped at four Fishing Passport tickets, so it’s worth sorting the permit before making the trip.

Methods: Fly-only fishing. For trout, try spiders, nymphs and dry flies on a 9–10 foot 3/4/5-weight rod; winter grayling is a particular highlight. Salmon anglers may use switch rods up to 14 feet with low-water doubles or tubes.

Access & tickets

Tickets are available through The Fishing Passport day-ticket system. A maximum of four tickets is listed per day.

Fish the club names

trout, chub

Key rules

• Fly-only fishing.
• National Environment Agency byelaws must be observed.
• Dogs are not allowed.
• Take particular care on the steep river-bank sides.
• Use caution when wading; a wading staff is recommended.
• Check river levels and weather, as the river can rise quickly.
• Fishing Passport availability is limited to a maximum of four tickets per day.

Where it is