Fishing

Classic Fly on Crisp Tyne Waters

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The History of the Tyne

Situated on the North-Tyne, one of the most iconic rivers in the UK, fishing at Chipchase is a must for any enthusiast. However, it is not only the fishing that is captivating, but also the tale of how the Tyne broke into the world of top-class salmon fishing.

 

In 1959 it was reported that no salmon or sea trout were caught by rod and line in the Tyne, however, today counts indicate over 30,000 migratory fish running each year. Since its industrial heyday the quality of the water in the Tyne has dramatically improved, thanks to massive investment from water companies and government, and it can at last support a growing population of fish species. To add to its success the Tyne has over 600,000 fry returned to its water by Kielder Hatchery giving a huge boost to the viability of salmon in the river.

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Fishing At Chipchase

As a result of the renaissance, the Tyne has become the premier salmon river in England and Wales. Chipchase is situated on a prime stretch of the North Tyne that sees good fishing from late May. There is a good sea trout run in June/July and salmon from May onwards with the later part of the year being a bit busier. The fishing is classic fly water, and spinning is forbidden. Wading on Chipchase is generally easy but fishermen are advised to use wading sticks at all times and to stay abreast of reports regarding releases from Kielder.   Chipchase offers the most complete guided fishing package on the North Tyne River, drawing national and international visitors who purchase not only quality tutored fishing but also excellent personal service and a well-maintained setting. Chipchase has been cited in The Field magazine for having the most manicured riverbanks. This tidiness ensures the fishing is accessible to as many as possible, including the elderly and disabled who can access the various pools.   

Chipchase guests have the luxury of fishing without having to share the river with a rod on the opposite bank at the same time.   Stephen Ridley is Chipchase’s resident full time ghillie and is available at all times to assist the fishing guests.  

Stephen’s services include: 

·         meeting and greeting guests, including a courtesy visit the day of arrival to guests staying at either Riverhill Cottage or Mill Cottage, which includes setting up and advising on their fishing equipment, 

·         educating the guests on the best fishing opportunities, 
·         giving lessons,  

·         providing guidance throughout the day, 

·         making personally tied flies for guests,  

·         helping guests with advice on fishing equipment and accessories, including on-the-spot repairs and supplying missing items, 

·         providing physical support for elderly or infirm clients, and  

 ·   providing safety information, particularly in relation to the releases from Kielder Water, a large reservoir at the head of the North Tyne River, which can affect anglers’ safety.    Stephen is “on call” throughout the day and will remain with inexperienced guests throughout the day if that is requested.   

For inexperienced guests who require further assistance, additional instructors can be provided.   Stephen’s behind the scenes work includes: 

 ·         maintaining banks, 

 ·         keeping undergrowth under control, 

 ·         repairing storm damage, 

 ·         ensuring accurate returns of fish are made and providing reports to FishPal.   

 

 Passionate about fishing and nature, the owners manage the woodland and wildlife areas adjacent to the riverbank, removing any invasive species and ensuring new plantings of trees, shrubs and wildflowers are not overgrown, improving the habitat for flies, insects and butterflies. Outside contractors are engaged for more substantial tree surgery work to keep the banks and access points clear and to ensure fishing is a pleasant and trouble-free experience.   

 Facilities provided to fishing guests include: 

 ·         provision of huts, barbecues, indoor and outdoor furniture, maps and diagrams of the river system, 

 ·         lockable rod racks to store rods outside,  

 ·         gravel tracks to allow vehicular access as close to the river as possible.   

 Invoicing: Galbraith land agents manage the invoicing of clients and circulate an annual update letter to those on the marketing list. Because of the superb waters that Chipchase has on offer, bookings are hard to come by, however odd days and lastminute cancellations can be found online at Fish Tyne and whilst there is an extensive waiting list, occasionally there are cancellations, so it is worth being put on the waiting list.

 


For more information please email info@chipchasecastle.com or visit www.fishtyne.co.uk