Crummock Water is the largest of the three linked lakes that form the catchment of the River Cocker and measures some two and half miles long and just over half a mile wide. When storms rake the fells it can be an intimidating place, dark and windswept under the brooding shadow of Melbreak.  But in better weather it can offer some very good fishing for wild browns with the reputation of producing the occasional exceptional fish. As with many of the bigger waters, it’s usually a case of hitting it the right place at the right time.

Crummock cries out to be fished loch style from the boat and they are (apparently) available to hire, but only with oars. This means a lot of rowing for not much fishing, especially on the sort of breezy day when the chances of good sport are high. You are permitted to launch your own unpowered boat although the National Trust state that no launching facilities are available. We’ll leave that one with you to work out for yourself.

On the plus side you fly anglers will find miles of accessible bank but avoid the southern end with the inflow from Buttermere – unless you happen to be a fan of waist deep swamps.

Keeping on the move and covering new ground is invariably prerequisite for success on this fishery. Look no further than traditional patterns unless you have some additional tricks up your sleeve.