Private River Fishing at The Stanley Arms

Enjoy Riverside Fishing at The Stanley Arms

Guests staying at The Stanley Arms are welcome to enjoy complimentary access to our stretch of the River Calder located at the rear of the garden. Whether you're an experienced angler or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the water, our riverside setting offers a wonderful opportunity to relax and reconnect with nature.

Nestled between the stunning landscapes of the Western Lake District and the Cumbrian coast, the River Calder provides a tranquil environment where guests can enjoy the simple pleasure of riverside fishing while surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Please note that we do not provide fishing tackle, rods, bait or equipment, so anglers should bring their own. Guests are also responsible for ensuring they hold any required rod licences and comply with local fishing regulations.

What Fish Can Be Found in the River Calder?

The River Calder supports a variety of freshwater fish species, including:

Brown Trout
Atlantic Salmon (seasonal runs)
Sea Trout
European Eel
Bullhead
Minnow

Fish populations can vary throughout the year, with salmon and sea trout most commonly encountered during their migration seasons. Brown trout are present throughout the river system and provide exciting sport for anglers of all abilities.

Stay, Fish and Explore

Our location makes The Stanley Arms an ideal base for anglers looking to explore the rivers, lakes and coastline of West Cumbria. After a day outdoors, return to comfortable accommodation, great food and a welcoming Cumbrian atmosphere.

Whether you're packing your rods for a dedicated fishing trip or simply fancy trying your luck during your stay, the River Calder offers a peaceful waterside escape just steps from your room.

Essential Rules & Guidelines

To protect our local ecosystem, maintain the quality of the fishing, and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, we kindly ask all guests to observe the following guidelines:

Environment Agency Rod Licence: Every angler aged 13 or over must hold a valid UK Environment Agency rod licence before fishing. You can easily purchase one online via the GOV.UK website prior to your arrival.
Closed Season Compliance: We strictly adhere to the national coarse fishing closed seasons (running from 15 March to 16 June inclusive). No fishing is permitted during this period to allow fish to spawn.
Catch & Release: To preserve fish stocks for the future, we operate a strict Catch and Release policy on our stretch of the river. Please handle all fish with care and return them safely to the water.
Property Boundaries: Fishing is permitted exclusively within our hotel grounds. Please respect our neighbours' boundaries and do not cross into adjacent private land.
Leave No Trace: Please help us keep the riverbank pristine by taking all litter, discarded line, and packaging with you.

Safety & River Etiquette

Depth and Currents: River levels can change rapidly following heavy rainfall, and banks can occasionally be slippery. Please take care, wear appropriate footwear, and supervise children at all times near the water.
Access: Access is exclusively for registered hotel guests. If you have any questions about the best spots or local tackle shops, our front desk team is always happy to help.