Your one stop information centre for fishing
in Cumbria and the Lake District

Most of Cumbria's major lakes provide relatively easy access for kayak angling and remain largely free of the restrictions found elsewhere. An added bonus is that some still offer free fishing. They provide angling mainly for pike, perch and trout - invariably on very scenic waters where a quiet corner can always be found. The information below should help to point you in the right direction but you are advised to check locally for any changes to access arrangements.

Windermere Good fishing for pike with some very large specimens present. There are launching points and car parks at Waterhead, Ferry Nab, near Bowness and at Fell Foot near Newby Bridge. Limited access along the west shore for launching although there is a car park and lakeshore access just north of the Ferry. Free fishing

Coniston Mainly pike on this large lake which provides a quieter alternative to Windermere during the summer months. There is access, parking and launching at the Coniston Boating Centre near Coniston village.Free fishing

Esthwaite Water This 300 acre lake operates as a trout fishery but welcomes kayak anglers. Normal angling fees apply plus a nominal launching fee. Good car parking and access. This is an excellent venue for new kayak anglers to fine tune their skills - amongst plenty of fish!

Ullswater Highly regarded as a wild brown trout fishery with the best of the fishing from March through to mid June. Good access, parking and launching at the steamer quay at Glenridding and at Pooley Bridge and Howtown. Free fishing.

Derwent Water Good pike, perch and the odd big brown trout. Fishing on the lake is controlled by Keswick Angling Association with permits available locally. The best access and launching point is Nicol End Marine near Portinscale. Pike come readily to the fly during the warmer months.

Bassenthwaite Lake. This water is controlled by the LDNPA. Pike are the main interest and good to catch on the fly. Kayaks can be launched at Peel Wyke towards the western end of the lake. Permits for fishing and launching are available locally

Crummock Water and Buttermere. Both are controlled by the National Trust with fishing permits available from Wood House at Buttermere. Kayaks are permitted on both lakes but physical access is difficult - best to check locally and see what you can work out!  Trout are the main interest with the best fishing during April, May and June.

Ennerdale Water. Canoeists regularly use the lake but formal arrangements are not well publicised. Apparently a permit is required from United Utilities who can be contacted on  01768 772334. There is excellent access down the gravel track to a parking area by the lakeshore past the old Anglers Arms hotel but again the formality of this access point is unclear. To top it off the situation with fishing permits also needs clarity. Best to contact Ian Hurst at Egremont Anglers for an up to date position on 01946 820904. If you do manage to get through all the hoops its a beautiful lake with every chance of a nice couple of trout.

Thirlmere Good access launching and parking at Armboth car park on the western shore. Thirlmere offers excellent fly fishing for wild brown trout with some good specimens present. It is a water supply reservoir and water levels can drop during dry periods and the summer months. Best fished April through to June. Fishing permits are available online and through all WADAA  permit agents.