River Derwent — Matlock Bath

River level

The lowdown

• This is a short, tidy 200-yard slice of the Derwent in the Matlock Bath section of the valley. Scenic Derbyshire river fishing, bob on.
• The riverbed is generally firm gravel, giving the water a clean game-fishing feel. Expect varied habitat rather than one uniform run.
• Pools, glides and riffles are all part of the nearby character, so there’s plenty to work out. Keep an eye on the crease and changes in depth.
• Alder trees line the banks, while the surrounding woodland and habitat provide plenty of terrestrial insect life. Worth paying attention to what’s moving on the water.
• Brown trout and grayling are present. This is firmly game-fishing territory, not a chuck-in-and-wait coarse-water job.
• Approach with light, tidy tackle and fish the water in front of you. Working the glides and riffles carefully should suit the stretch’s varied layout.
• The published brown-trout season runs from 18 March to 7 October inclusive. Normal fishing times also vary by month under the club rules, so check those before setting off.
• Canoes can be a problem during summer. It’s one of those things to bear in mind when planning a session, especially on brighter, busier days.
• Access is via recognised access points, with location maps and access information available through the members area. No faffing around on unauthorised approaches.
• This isn’t a day-ticket water. You need Trout Ticket Member access, and must carry your membership card while fishing club waters.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Light game-fishing approaches suit the pools, glides and riffles, with the firm gravel bed and alder-lined banks giving plenty of water to read. Keep it mobile and tidy, and remember that live bait and swimfeeders are banned.

Access & tickets

This is Derby Railway Angling Club water and the club does not advertise day tickets for the stretch. Join as an Associate Coarse member for coarse fishing, or take Associate Trout & Coarse membership for all club waters and both game and coarse fishing; memberships run annually from 16 June.

Fish the club names

trout, chub

Key rules

• Trout fishing runs from 18 March to 7 October inclusive.
• Normal fishing times vary by month under club rules.
• An Environment Agency rod licence is required, and fishing must comply with Environment Agency by-laws.
• Members must carry their membership card while fishing club waters.
• Only one rod is permitted on the River Derwent.
• Live bait, fishing from boats and swimfeeders are forbidden.
• All fish must be returned. Keepnets and sacks are not permitted at Matlock Bath.
• Anglers must use recognised access points, remove all rubbish and leave the bank tidy. No fires, barbecues, tents or camping are allowed between fishing sessions.

Where it is