Hayeswater is a 34 acre tarn set high in the wild open spaces of the eastern fells. The tarn is best approached from Hartsop village which lies at the foot of Kirkstone Pass near Brotherswater. At 1,400ft above sea level the fishery is a somewhat strenuous mile and half from the car – but, for those with strong legs and good lungs, the walk is well worth the effort. This is magnificent country, red deer roam the slopes above the tarn, golden eagles are frequently sighted and otters too are regular visitors.

Hayeswater reputedly holds Loch Leven trout, stocked by the ‘Yellow Earl’. Whatever their origin there is no doubt that these are exceptional wild fish, fast growing, butter bellied and feisty with an average size of half a pound. Better fish around the pound mark are not uncommon and fish of 1.5lbs are sometimes taken.

The water is crystal clear. As a rule overcast days with a good breeze will help the angler. May and June are probably the best months but the water can fish well throughout the year – although like any wild fishery it can be unpredictable. The trick is to keep on the move and cover the ground. Blend in, keep a low profile, use traditional wet flies, cast and move. It takes about three hours to fish the full perimeter and you should be rewarded with a couple of decent fish and plenty of swirls, plucks and follows. Fish come out of nowhere and return in the blink of an eye. Late evenings can see a good rise and, if there is a ripple, dry flies will also be productive. 

Hayeswater is a valuable, but still vulnerable, stronghold for wild brown trout in Cumbria.  Catch and release is encouraged on this fishery to help preserve the wild stock

Please note that work carried out in 2014 to remove the dam has left the tarn with a bit of a ‘tidemark’ and some difficulty of access – care needs to be taken in several areas where the banks are very muddy, particularly at the head (inflow) of the tarn.  The margins should eventually become more natural looking but it may take a year or two at least.