We’re the envy of the world!
When I was a young man I bemoaned the fact that fishing in this part of
the country could not compare with the many places further afield.
This may still apply, but not to such a great extent because fishing in
Derbyshire is pretty good now.
I feel qualified to judge because, apart from Cornwall, I have fished
in every county in the British Isles.
Our game fish is the envy of the world, and American anglers know this.
Our trout streams – including the Derwent, Dove, Wye, Manifold,
Noe and Lathkil – are superb for dry-fly fishing.
Waiting lists for syndicates are shorter than ever before and in most
cases fees amount to no more than a smoker spends on fags.
We have trout stillwaters in reasonal abundance, with prices lower than
average further south. Carsington, Foremark and the fantastic Ladybower,
plus smaller ones such as Press Manor, Alton Manor and Barlow.
There is no sea fishing, but we are not badly off for the coarse variety.
The Trent is not far away and has never been better for big barbel and
chub. Add the Derwent tributary and the River Idle too and all seems fine.
We also have plenty of comfortable, well-run commercial fisheries where
catches care almost guaranteed.
Meanwhile, there is an excellent chance available for youngsters who would
like to get involved in the Derbyshire trout fishing scene.
The county branch of the Salmon and Trout Association is staging a series
of events aimed at the younger angler.
The first of these will take place at Cromford Meadows on Thursday, April
12.
Casting and fly life on the river will be demonstrated between 9.30am-4pm.
For further information contact Hilary Langan on 07803 137234.