Fly Fishing on Malham Tarn

Malham Tarn is located 375 metres above sea level in the most spectacular upland limestone scenery the Yorkshire Dales and indeed England has to offer. Owned by the National Trust Malham Tarn National Nature Reserve is a very special place it's an internationally recognised RAMSAR site and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Malham Tarn has a fly fishing history of more than 150 years and it must be one of the few places that's seen little change in that time. Fly fishing at Malham Tarn is by boat only for it's wild Brown Trout and requires specialised equipment, techniques and plenty of determination.

Malham Tarn is within easy reach of Leeds, Bradford, Manchester, Harrogate and York and with a direct rail link to Skipton from London Kings Cross makes it easy to visit even from the South of England. Malham Tarn is an ultra rich "food factory" for trout which makes them difficult to catch but when you do catch one it's often large and there are no more beautiful trout anywhere in the UK.

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Fish species / seasons

Malham Tarn holds a small head of often large wild Brown Trout and Perch which are also occasionally caught on the fly.

Trout fishing on Malham Tarn starts on the 1st of May and finishes at the end of September.

Tackle

A rod between 10 and 11 feet for a 6 or 7 weight line (floating) is ideal. A longer rod gives the necessary control required when fishing the true short line "Loch style" techniques. Due to it's altitude plenty of warm and waterproof clothing is required plus a good drogue, electric outboard motor and life jackets are essential.

Tactics

The Brown Trout of Malham Tarn in the main respond best to true "Loch Style" techniques, fishing a team of traditional Loch flies on a short line and working the "bob" fly through the waves. On the few occasions fish are taking buzzers close to the surface fish can be caught by fishing the more modern buzzer tactics. Dapping is also an interesting and often effective technique.

Guides

There is no doubt that Malham Tarn is a hard water but with the help of a Go Fly Fishing UK guide your chances of getting a fish or two will be hugely increased. All tackle including flies can be supplied or if you prefer you can bring your own. Your guide will also provide an electric outboard motor, drogue and life jackets. Malham Tarn is one water where you really must take a guide. Our guides can provide a local railway station collection and return service and are available to give you a guided tour of the many historic sites, towns and cities and the many other attractions in the Yorkshire Dales.

If you would like to make your fly fishing part of a short break or holiday in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales we can advise on the best accommodation options. These include 4 star hotels, country house hotels, inns and bed and breakfasts each within a short distance from the fishing.

Costs

Fly fishing in the Yorkshire Dales is great value, with very few exceptions the prices are as those listed on our costs page. Click here to go directly to our costs page. When fishing from a boat the hire of the boat may be charged extra, if this is the case you will be advised at the time of booking.

For more detailed information about the non-fishing highlights of the Malham Tarn area please click here.

Contact Steve at our northern office to discuss your preferred fly fishing location or to make a booking - telephone 01756 748378 / 07717 533177, email steve@goflyfishinguk.com.