River Eden: Blandswath

River level

The lowdown

• The stretch sits just above Blandswath Bridge, near Kirkby Stephen. It’s a short section rather than a huge wander, so take your time and make each swim count.
• Fishing is from the true left-hand bank only. Keep that firmly in mind before setting up — no wandering onto the far side.
• The nicest water is in the attractive slow and relatively deep glides. These should be well worth a careful look for trout sitting in the crease or tucked out of the main push.
• There are some good trout in the water, and the fishery offers fly fishing for wild brown trout. No stocking is carried out on KSDAA waters, so it’s all about reading the river properly.
• Upstream of the first field, the river becomes difficult to fish. Don’t force it. The easier, more inviting water around the main stretch is where your time will likely be better spent.
• A delicate fly approach suits the slower glides. Cover likely lies steadily, keep your profile low and avoid charging straight into the swim — classic Eden tactics, nice and tidy.
• The trout season runs from 15 March to 30 September inclusive. Grayling fishing runs from 16 June to 31 January, although all KSDAA waters close from 1 February to 14 March.
• Day and weekly ticket holders must fish for trout and grayling with fly only. Spinning is not allowed, except by junior members, and barbless hooks are encouraged.
• The association strongly advocates catch and release. If you do retain fish under the rules, the minimum size is 12 inches from nose to fork of tail, with a maximum of two trout and/or grayling per day.

Methods: Fly fishing is the order of the day, with careful presentation through the slower, deeper glides. Keep things quiet, work the crease and cover likely trout lies rather than splashing about.

Access & tickets

Day and weekly permits are available online through Kirkby Stephen and District Angling Association. Membership is also available, including resident, non-resident and free under-18 membership options.

Fish the club names

trout

Key rules

• Day and weekly ticket holders may fish for trout and grayling with fly only.
• The trout season runs from 15 March through 30 September inclusive.
• The grayling season runs from 16 June through 31 January.
• All KSDAA waters are closed from 1 February through 14 March inclusive.
• Anglers must carry the appropriate ticket and a valid Environment Agency rod licence.
• Spinning is not allowed except by junior members.
• No bait feeding, fish roe or medicated bait is allowed.
• Anglers must observe the Country Code and leave gates as found.

Where it is