River Eden, Recent Conditions
This year it certainly seems to have been a colder spring than normal. This has effected both the salmon and trout fishing on the River Eden as everything seems to have been pushed back a few weeks later than normal. A good number of spring salmon are now spread throughout the Eden system having come in on the last push of high water just over a week ago. The higher water has meant that the salmon have been running hard. This has meant that many fish have been lost as when they are travelling quickly they rarely take well. Now the river is falling the fish should stay for longer in the many of the holding pools so as long as the river keeps topped up with rain the prospect for the coming weeks look very positive.
The recent warmer conditions have also given a great boost to many of the fly hatches, some of which have been more dormant than normal because of the cold conditions. The high water has also swept much of the algae that was on the rocks away so the water clarity is excellent. The trout fishing on the upper river looks like it may be excellent in the coming weeks.
Why fish the River Eden?
The River Eden is a scenic playground full of wonderful fly fishing opportunities. Through its length the fly fishing on the River Eden offers a wide and varied experience. Each section offers a different challenge. From tight rock pools and canyon shoots to sweeping riffles. Fly fishing in Cumbria can be a great standalone trip or an excellent way of extending a trip north to Scotland.
We are delighted to offer single and multi day guided trips on the River Eden for both trout and salmon. We have access to a number of excellent beats so are able to tailor the experience to meet your needs and wishes.
Salmon Fishing on the Eden
Heavy rain at the start of the of year kept the river high but the water cleared and dropped in time for anglers to see a encouraging start to the season. All of the main beats have now caught there their first salmon and some have landed the large spring fish the Eden is known for.
As we enter April we come to the period considered prime time for salmon on the River Eden. Once the water starts to warm the spring fish tend to be more willing takers of the fly. This is also at this time of the season that salmon spread throughout the system. Later in the season good numbers of salmon are present in many of the main holding pools. This means that there is a good chance of landing a salmon until the close of play in October.
River Eden Trout Fishing
The trout fishing on the River Eden can be a great fallback for salmon anglers during low water conditions. But for many it is the biggest attraction of the region. Throughout the system the river boasts some of the finest fly fishing for wild brown trout in the UK.
Each season its waters produce some truly giant wild fish. The trout season runs from 15th March to 30th September. Throughout anglers can encounter fantastic fly hatches. These hatches often bringing the largest of trout to the surface. Although patience is key to locating the big fish. That the fish also attack traditional wet flies fished down and across willingly. This is an exciting method to fish for those more used to upstream tactics. During quieter days nymphing techniques can be prolific, as can streamers fished in rising river conditions.
Accommodation
For those wishing to stay for longer we can arrange accommodation at the delightful Tufton Arms. The Tufton Arms offers 20 hotel rooms and 3 self-catering apartments. It is ideally located in the centre of the old market town of Appleby-in-Westmorland. The old coaching house is traditionally decorated and houses stunning original game artwork by Jason Lowes as well as wonderful historical paintings.
There are two communal lounges, a small full-service bar and a great restaurant with an award-winning wine selection. The hotel is owned and run by Nigel Milsom, an avid fly fisherman himself and always on hand to offer advice ahead of your day on the water.
For more information about single or multiple days on the River Eden or for our other UK salmon and trout fishing options please contact us or call our office on +44(0)1980 847389.