Hesleyside Eals Beat

River level

The lowdown

• This is North Tyne water, one of the two source rivers of the River Tyne, and the setting is properly scenic downstream from Kielder dam.
• The fishing runs for 2 kilometres, from opposite the fence line on the left bank upstream of Riverdale Hall Hotel down to the end of the small wood on the right bank.
• You’re fishing the right bank only. The river access is through a small gate about 25 metres beyond the field gate, with roughly a 200-metre walk from the farm yard.
• It’s fly fishing only at all times, so pack the fly gear and leave the feeder and float tackle at home.
• Brown trout are the named species present on this beat. The North Tyne is also described by the Trust as a famous salmon river.
• Fishing is available from 22 March to 15 June. That gives you a proper spring and early-summer window, with changing river levels and temperatures to keep an eye on.
• The Trust describes the water as offering excellent fishing. With two kilometres to explore and only two anglers allowed, it should feel nicely uncrowded.
• High water temperatures matter here. Stop fishing affected sections during hot spells to protect the salmonids — sensible river etiquette, and especially important on this sort of water.
• For the drive in, use the B6320 just south of Bellingham. It’s the first farm track on the left after Bellingham Bridge, signed for Eals Farm.
• Park on the grass in the farm yard, not in the turning circle. Access is between the black shed and the sheep pens — a small bit of faff, but straightforward once you know the landmarks.
• Give your kit a proper check, clean and dry before fishing, helping prevent non-native species spreading between waters.

Methods: Fly fishing only, all day. Work the fly through the available runs and glides, keeping an eye on water temperature and stopping on affected sections during high temperatures.

Access & tickets

Tickets are sold through the Tyne Rivers Trust’s Tyne Angling Passport scheme. The ticket price shown by the rights holder is £8.00 per day.

Fish the club names

trout

Key rules

• Fly fishing only applies at all times.
• All fish must be returned.
• Maximum of two anglers.
• Fishing is available from 22 March to 15 June.
• Stop fishing affected sections during high water temperatures to protect salmonids.
• Check, clean and dry fishing equipment to help prevent the spread of non-native species.
• Fish the right bank only.
• Use the stated beat limits: upstream opposite the fence line on the left bank upstream of Riverdale Hall Hotel; downstream at the end of the small wood on the right bank.

Where it is