River Eden: Wharton Hall

River level

The lowdown

• This is KSDAA water, and the association controls roughly nine miles of River Eden fishing in total.
• The stretch has a proper mix of water, from steady running sections to deeper pools. Plenty to explore.
• Some bits are not the easiest to fish, so expect a few swims where wading, casting or getting into position takes a bit of thought.
• The Eden here has historically been productive, and the association says it is definitely not over-fished. That’s a cracking combination.
• It’s fly-only for day and weekly ticket holders, with trout and grayling the target fish. Spinning is only allowed for junior members.
• Wild brown trout are present across the KSDAA River Eden waters. No stocking is carried out, so it’s all about reading the river and presenting the fly properly.
• Trout are in season from 15 March to 30 September inclusive. Grayling fishing runs from 16 June to 31 January.
• There is no weekend fishing on this stretch, so plan a weekday trip and check the current ticket details before setting off.
• Barbless hooks are encouraged, as is the safe return of healthy fish. The association strongly advocates catch and release.
• The exact access and parking arrangements at Wharton Hall need checking on the KSDAA map and with the ticket information. Leave gates as you find them and don’t bring the dog.

Methods: Fly fishing is the order of the day, working the glides, running water and deep pools with a careful presentation. Take your time in the awkward bits and keep things barbless where possible.

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

Named by Kirkby Stephen and District Angling Association across its waters, not for this stretch on its own.

Key rules

• Fly fishing only for day and weekly ticket holders; trout and grayling may be fished with fly only.
• There is no weekend fishing on this stretch.
• A valid Environment Agency rod licence is required.
• Anglers must carry and show the appropriate association ticket on request.
• Spinning is not allowed except for junior members.
• Dogs are not permitted while fishing association waters.
• Up to two trout and/or grayling may be retained per day, subject to association rules; retained fish must be at least 12 inches from nose to fork of tail.
• Fish roe, medicated bait, illegal bait and bait feeding are prohibited. Gates must be left open or shut as found.

Where it is