The Cocker is a major tributary of the Derwent and has its beginnings up on Honister Pass before passing through Buttermere and Crummock to join the Derwent at Cockermouth.

Although the Cocker was once a notable river for migratory fish the runs of sea trout have seriously declined. Salmon numbers too have fallen and the runs are certainly less predictable in comparison to their heyday.

The best chance of a fish is later in the season following high water from mid August onwards but access for visitors is very limited. There is a decent stretch of town water through Cockermouth with permits available from the Tourist information centre in the Town Hall – but the only other realistic alternative is to ingratiate yourself with a member of Cockermouth Angling Association who issue guest permits for their members’ use.