River Derwent Kirkham

River level

The lowdown

• YDAA controls the right bank from Kirkham road bridge down to the weir, with more fishing continuing from the end of the wood through Barn Field towards Howsham Hall.
• The fishery finishes at the end of the field opposite Howsham Hall. Don’t drift beyond that point: the section from Howsham weir to the golf-course field is private and must not be fished by YDAA members.
• Expect a real mix of water. There are fast, shallow runs alongside deeper, slower stretches, so it’s worth having a wander before settling on a swim.
• The middle sections are described as lightly fished. That could be bob-on for a quiet day with the float rod, especially where the pace eases off and the crease starts to show.
• A long rod is useful for covering the depth and keeping line off the water. Float-fished maggot, caster or bread are favourite approaches here.
• Maggot or caster feeder fishing can work well when the river has a bit of colour or the flow is pushing. Larger fish may fancy meat or worm.
• Roach, chub, perch, pike and skimmer bream are named for the stretch. Occasional barbel and trout are also present, while bigger bream are considered elusive.
• Access for the bridge section is through the kissing gate between the bridge and level crossing. For the hall section, follow the left side of the hedge, then the riverside path to the pegs.
• Roadside parking is suggested between Kirkham and Howsham, without blocking the road. Around the bridge, roadside parking or Kirkham Abbey car park is suggested. There are no listed on-site facilities or fishing platforms.
• It’s members-only, with no night fishing. Carry your authority, stick to recognised paths, and handle and return fish carefully.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Float-fished maggot, caster or bread is the classic shout, with maggot or caster feeder worth a go. Try meat or worm for a bigger fish, and use a long rod to cover the depth.

Access & tickets

Buy a day ticket online from YDAA using an email address and PayPal, or through a YDAA sales outlet. For online purchases, keep the emailed ticket handy on your mobile or bring a printout.

Fish the club names

carp, tench, bream, roach, pike, perch, trout, chub

Key rules

• Carry your YDAA authority while fishing.
• Approach the water only by recognised ways and paths.
• Handle fish carefully and return them.
• Dogs are not allowed, except assistance dogs.
• Picnicking, fires, littering and live-baiting with fish are prohibited.
• Only rod-and-line and pole angling are allowed.
• Members are normally restricted to one rod in use at a time.
• During the coarse-fish close season, river fishing is restricted to artificial fly, spinner or lure solely for game fish, subject to the stated closed dates.
• Do not fish the privately owned section from Howsham weir to the golf-course field.

Where it is