Dove Farm – Norbury Weir stretch of the River Dove

River level

The lowdown

• This is a proper little wild-water beat on the Staffordshire–Derbyshire border, close to Ellastone and Norbury. Compact, but nicely varied.
• The stretch runs both above and below Norbury Weir, so there’s a mix of weir water and river character to explore.
• It’s fly fishing only. No bait, no feeder faff — just get the rod bent and work the water with a fly.
• The holder reports pleasing numbers of natural fish, with wild brown trout, rainbow trout and grayling named for the stretch.
• The banks are lightly maintained for conservation. Think natural edges and proper riverbank habitat, not manicured lawns and tidy ornamental swims.
• Fishing points are made accessible where possible, though the beat remains small and only a limited number of places are available.
• A fish pass was installed beside the Norbury Weir hydroelectric turbine at the end of 2016. Salmon are expected to increase as migratory access improves, but this is not classed as salmon fishing water.
• The policy is strictly catch and release, so handle everything carefully and get fish back quickly. Bob on for keeping the wild character of the place.
• Vehicle access is through Dove Farm’s main entrance and a gated track. You’ll need the passcode, and parking is limited to one or two cars at the water’s edge beside the turbine.
• Weekends are described as prime time, with possible midweek deals for cottage guests. Guided fishing and fly-fishing tuition may also be arranged — handy if you fancy a bit of tuition rather than going it alone.
• We're not sure on ticket prices for this one — check with the club or local regulations before you leave.

Methods: Fly fishing only, working the varied water above and below Norbury Weir. Guided fishing and fly-fishing tuition may be arranged, which could be a cracking way to get settled on the beat.

Access & tickets

Day tickets are available only in strictly limited numbers to guests staying at Dove Farm cottages. Dove Farm does not issue day tickets to the general public, and enquiries are required for availability and pricing; guided fishing or tuition may also be arranged.

Fish the club names

trout, trout, trout

Key rules

• Fly fishing only.
• Strictly catch and release.
• The stretch is not classed as salmon fishing water.
• A separate fishing licence would be required for salmon fishing in any case.
• Dove Farm does not issue day tickets to the general public.
• Only a strictly limited number of day tickets are available to guests staying at Dove Farm cottages.
• Use the gated track only with the required passcode.

Where it is