Ellerton Estate Beat (RADAC Beat One)

The lowdown

• This is classic upper Swaledale stuff: fast-flowing brown-trout water, pasture and estate surroundings, plus cracking Yorkshire Dales scenery around Stainton and Downholme.
• RADAC controls the south bank only, so keep that firmly in mind when moving between swims. The beat runs from the Stainton Lane end down to where Cogden Beck joins the Swale.
• There are two listed access points. One is at the Stainton Lane end, and the other is the footpath opposite Hagg Gill Farm. Use the recognised routes rather than creating your own shortcut.
• The river is upland and quick, so expect lively water rather than a lazy, deep glide. Look for the crease, softer edges and steadier pockets where a brown trout can tuck out of the main push.
• Fly fishing is the predominant approach here. Read the flow, keep the presentation tidy and work the likely holding water around changes in pace.
• Worm fishing is also one of the principal permitted methods under the club rules, giving you another option when the river has a bit of colour or the fly is proving a faff.
• Spinning is not permitted on this beat. Fishing is exclusively for brown trout across RADAC waters, so there’s no mixed-bag business to worry about.
• The rules differ for members and day-ticket anglers. Day-ticket fishing is catch-and-release, while members may retain fish subject to the 10-inch minimum and a two-fish-per-rod daily bag limit.
• This is a sensitive pasture and wildlife setting. Keep disturbance down around livestock, wildlife and nesting birds, take all litter home, remove line, and leave the dogs behind.

Methods: Fly fishing is the predominant method, with worm fishing also permitted. Spinning is not allowed on this beat.

Access & tickets

Day tickets can be obtained from the Black Bull Hotel in Reeth, the Bridge Inn in Grinton, Reeth Post Office or the Kings Head in Gunnerside. A valid Environment Agency rod licence is required when obtaining a ticket.

Fish the club names

trout

Named by Reeth and District Angling Club (RADAC) across its waters, not for this stretch on its own.

Key rules

• Spinning is not permitted.
• Fly and worm fishing are the principal permitted methods.
• All anglers must hold a current rod-and-line licence.
• Catch-and-release is mandatory for day-ticket holders.
• Members may retain trout only at 10 inches or above, with a limit of two fish per rod per day.
• Permits must be carried while fishing and produced on request.
• A full catch return, including a nil return, must be submitted to the club secretary.
• Use recognised access routes and gates or stiles; minimise disturbance, take litter and fishing line home, and do not bring dogs while fishing.

Where it is