The Temple Beat Beresford Fisheries on the River Dove, nr Hartington, Derbyshire

Brief notes and pictures of my experiences when fishing this lovely beat. by Brian Whyte

I have a season rod for the Temple beat of the Beresford Fishery, on the River Dove in the Derbyshire Dales. The beat runs for 2.5 km along the Beresford Dale stretch of the River Dove and can be fished from both banks, selective wading is allowed where necessary. Anyone familiar with the Compleat Angler (Izaak Walton, 1653) will be aware of the historical significance of this stretch of river. Most signifcantly in the 17th Century when Charles Cotton senior and his son Charles Cotton II were the landowners who lived at Beresford Hall. They were to become close friends with Izaak Walton who would help cement their names in history books for many generations. Charles Cotton II built the Fishing Temple,  in honour of his dear friend Izaak.  The Temple (pictured above) is situated roughly half way along the beat and an open fire and hot drinks still await today's anglers. The beat has been managed to maintain its orginal features and atmosphere, and also its butter-bellied wild brown trout, which run to 3lb+ in size, and Grayling are also present in good numbers (and to a good size). The beat is not stocked and is actively managed by the River Keeper.

Fishing Dates (click on the date for a brief write-up of the day's activities)

2013

27th April First outing on the beat

7th June not the right day for the Mayfly

13th July Dry fly fishing with Glen Pointon

27th July fishing with Steve (Lee)

17th August Nymph fishing with Glen Pointon

15th September fishing the middle of the beat

24th September late season fishing on the upper parts of the beat