Derwent Valley Fisheries are controlled by Earl of Harrington Angling Club. These two lakes are adjacent to our club-owned stretch of the River Derwent, 2 miles north of Derby town centre. We have a reciprocal agreement with the club that allows our members to fish their lakes, and they can fish our stretch of river.
Location and Access
The lakes are located off Halsam's Lane, at Darley Abbey, just north of Derby. The entrance track is opposite Folly Road, which is adjacent to Derby Rugby Club on Haslam's Lane. Access to the lakes and river is for members only. A WAA key will be needed to open the two gates, and these must be kept shut. There is a fenced designated car park provided right next to the main lake. The field around the lake is full of sheep, and there are also lots of geese here, so sensible footwear is advised. Fishing is comfortable on dedicated pegs around the lake.
Fishing
The main lake is immediately adjacent to the car park. It is a purpose-built fishing lake 
in a wide 'canal' format. The lake is shaped roughly like a triangle. It is approx 20m wide in most places, and there is marginal lily and reed growth all the way round the lake. Depths are between 6 and 9 feet.
The lake is primarily a specimen lake, with fishing for carp and tench. There are some smaller species present, but clear water, cormorant predation and losses due to flooding have reduced the stocks.
Carp here are strong and head straight for cover when hooked, it is advised to use strong tackle. Average size appears to be around 10lbs, and the local bailiff reports a catch recently of a 31lb fish, the largest so far. There are quality tench here, with fish having being caught into double figures.
The smaller lake is a short walk north from the car park. It features a large island and some lily pad beds. Stocks are not known, but it is reportedly good for tench fishing.
Local Rules
Please note this fishery belongs to Earl of Harrington AC, and their rules apply. Check for notices at the fishery.
- All gates must be locked, including on the car park.
- No night fishing
- 2 rods maximum
- Parking is only allowed on the main car park. No parking behind swims except for disabled badge holders
Derwent Valley Fisheries are controlled by Earl of Harrington Angling Club. These two lakes are adjacent to our club-owned stretch of the River Derwent, 2 miles north of Derby town centre. We have a reciprocal agreement with the club that allows our members to fish their lakes, and they can fish our stretch of river.
Location and Access
The lakes are located off Halsam's Lane, at Darley Abbey, just north of Derby. The entrance track is opposite Folly Road, which is adjacent to Derby Rugby Club on Haslam's Lane. Access to the lakes and river is for members only. A WAA key will be needed to open the two gates, and these must be kept shut. There is a fenced designated car park provided right next to the main lake. The field around the lake is full of sheep, and there are also lots of geese here, so sensible footwear is advised. Fishing is comfortable on dedicated pegs around the lake.
Fishing
The main lake is immediately adjacent to the car park. It is a purpose-built fishing lake in a wide 'canal' format. The lake is shaped roughly like a triangle. It is approx 20m wide in most places, and there is marginal lily and reed growth all the way round the lake. Depths are between 6 and 9 feet.
The lake is primarily a specimen lake, with fishing for carp and tench. There are some smaller species present, but clear water, cormorant predation and losses due to flooding have reduced the stocks.
Carp here are strong and head straight for cover when hooked, it is advised to use strong tackle. Average size appears to be around 10lbs, and the local bailiff reports a catch recently of a 31lb fish, the largest so far. There are quality tench here, with fish having being caught into double figures.
The smaller lake is a short walk north from the car park. It features a large island and some lily pad beds. Stocks are not known, but it is reportedly good for tench fishing.
Local Rules
Please note this fishery belongs to Earl of Harrington AC, and their rules apply. Check for notices at the fishery.
- All gates must be locked, including on the car park.
- No night fishing
- 2 rods maximum
- Parking is only allowed on the main car park. No parking behind swims except for disabled badge holders