What fish can I catch in River Derwent?

The river holds Roach, Perch, Grayling, Trout, Salmon, Eel. Salmon fishing requires a separate migratory fish licence in addition to the standard rod licence. Trout fishing on River Derwent may be subject to season restrictions — check local byelaws.

What is the close season on River Derwent?

15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales) Always confirm with the landowner or club before fishing out of normal season.

Do I need a licence to fish River Derwent?

Yes — a valid Environment Agency (EA) rod licence is required by law to fish River Derwent. Licences are available online from gov.uk. Some stretches of River Derwent offer free fishing (beyond the rod licence).

What is the water quality like in River Derwent?

The Environment Agency classifies River Derwent as having Moderate water quality. Fish status is rated as Moderate. Water quality can affect fishing conditions — check the EA's Catchment Data Explorer for up-to-date information.

Where is free fishing available on River Derwent?

Free fishing stretches on River Derwent include: Tickton through to Hull, River Derwent (East Yorkshire): Free fishing stretch on the River Derwent. Also reports of free pegs downstream of Stamford Bridge road bridge (first 4 pegs in front of free car park) and behind shops/pub area. A valid EA rod licence is still required on all stretches.

Fishing the River Derwent, Cumberland

Name: River Derwent
Address: GB

River Close season applies WQ: Moderate Free fishing available

About River Derwent

The Derwent is a moderately-sized river holding roach, perch, grayling, trout, salmon and eel, offering mixed coarse and game fishing across its 5km stretch. Access is predominantly through club membership or private arrangements, with an Environment Agency rod licence required for all anglers.

Anglers should note the close season on River Derwent: 15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales). Free fishing is available on sections of River Derwent — a valid EA rod licence is still required. Important: Other River Derwent stretches in England (Newcastle area, Derbyshire, Yorkshire) require either club membership or day tickets - there is no confirmed free water on these stretches. The Tickton to Hull stretch (East Yorkshire Derwent) represents the only clearly confirmed free fishing area found. Anglers still require a valid EA rod licence to fish anywhere in England/Wales. The information for the East Yorkshire Derwent is from angler forum posts and should be verified before visiting, as river access and fishing rights can change.

Current Water Conditions

Water level data from the Environment Agency Real Time Flood Monitoring API. Nearest gauging station. Always verify conditions on arrival.

Water Type

River

Length

305.7km (190mi)

Close Season

15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales)

Water Quality

Moderate

Fish Status

Moderate

Licence Required

EA Rod Licence

Free Fishing

Available

Fish Species in River Derwent

River Derwent holds roach, perch, grayling, trout, salmon, eel.

Salmon fishing on River Derwent requires a separate migratory salmonid licence from the EA in addition to the standard rod licence. Bag limits and season dates apply.

Trout fishing on River Derwent may be subject to season restrictions set by the local club or riparian owner — always confirm before your session.

An EA rod licence is required by law to fish River Derwent, even on free fishing stretches.

Free Fishing on River Derwent

Important: Other River Derwent stretches in England (Newcastle area, Derbyshire, Yorkshire) require either club membership or day tickets - there is no confirmed free water on these stretches. The Tickton to Hull stretch (East Yorkshire Derwent) represents the only clearly confirmed free fishing area found. Anglers still require a valid EA rod licence to fish anywhere in England/Wales. The information for the East Yorkshire Derwent is from angler forum posts and should be verified before visiting, as river access and fishing rights can change.

Known free fishing stretches:

Tickton through to Hull, River Derwent (East Yorkshire): Free fishing stretch on the River Derwent. Also reports of free pegs downstream of Stamford Bridge road bridge (first 4 pegs in front of free car park) and behind shops/pub area

A valid EA rod licence is still required on all free fishing stretches. You can buy your licence online before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish can I catch in River Derwent?+

The river holds Roach, Perch, Grayling, Trout, Salmon, Eel. Salmon fishing requires a separate migratory fish licence in addition to the standard rod licence. Trout fishing on River Derwent may be subject to season restrictions — check local byelaws.
What is the close season on River Derwent?+

15 March – 15 June (rivers, England & Wales) Always confirm with the landowner or club before fishing out of normal season.
Do I need a licence to fish River Derwent?+

Yes — a valid Environment Agency (EA) rod licence is required by law to fish River Derwent. Licences are available online from gov.uk. Some stretches of River Derwent offer free fishing (beyond the rod licence).
What is the water quality like in River Derwent?+

The Environment Agency classifies River Derwent as having Moderate water quality. Fish status is rated as Moderate. Water quality can affect fishing conditions — check the EA's Catchment Data Explorer for up-to-date information.
Where is free fishing available on River Derwent?+

Free fishing stretches on River Derwent include: Tickton through to Hull, River Derwent (East Yorkshire): Free fishing stretch on the River Derwent. Also reports of free pegs downstream of Stamford Bridge road bridge (first 4 pegs in front of free car park) and behind shops/pub area. A valid EA rod licence is still required on all stretches.

Planning a Trip to River Derwent

To fish River Derwent, you need a valid EA rod licence, available online from gov.uk. Annual, day and 8-day licences are available. Some stretches of River Derwent offer free fishing — a rod licence is still required.

Always check conditions before you visit. Water quality, access and rules can change seasonally. The EA's Catchment Data Explorer provides up-to-date water quality information for River Derwent.

Nearby Rivers & Canals

Other UK fishing waters near River Derwent on PiscaMaps:

River Derwent Fishing Guide