Sheffield and the surrounding South Yorkshire countryside offer some fantastic opportunities for fly anglers – from managed day-ticket waters to free fishing on beautiful urban rivers. Whether you’re after wild trout in small streams or a well-stocked stillwater, there’s plenty of variety on your doorstep.
Day Ticket and Club Waters Around Sheffield
Morehall Reservoir
Morehall Fly Fishing Club manages this picturesque stillwater on the edge of the Peak District. It’s a peaceful setting, stocked with hard-fighting trout, and ideal for a relaxing day on the water.
Wharncliffe Fly Fishery
Situated in beautiful woodland surroundings, Wharncliffe is another popular day-ticket venue. This well-maintained water offers great fishing for stocked trout and is perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. Learn more and book tickets via FishPal Wharncliffe Fly Fishery.
Barnsley Trout Club – Scout Dyke Reservoir
Scout Dyke Reservoir is a hidden gem for stillwater fly fishing in South Yorkshire. Managed by Barnsley Trout Club, this scenic venue offers fantastic fishing opportunities and a friendly club atmosphere. Membership details and visitor options can be found on their website.
Tin Mill Angling Club (River Don)
Tin Mill Angling Club offers access to some excellent stillwater coarse fishing, but that’s not all. They also control a section of the River Don that is ideal for fly fishing, giving members the chance to target wild trout and grayling in a beautiful natural setting.
Free Fly Fishing on Sheffield’s Rivers
One of the unique things about Sheffield is the network of rivers that run right through the city and surrounding valleys – and much of it can be fished for free if you know where to look.
The River Don, Loxley, Rivelin, and Sheaf all have stretches where you can fly fish without a day ticket. These waters hold wild trout and the Don has a large head of grayling, and while they may not always be easy fishing, they’re perfect for those who love exploring and stalking fish in varied surroundings.
Important to Note:
- You must have a valid Environment Agency rod licence even when fishing free stretches. This is a legal requirement for all anglers in England.
- Not all banks are open access, so be careful not to stray onto private land.
- Look for public spaces such as council-owned parks, footpaths, and other areas where fishing is permitted.
- If in doubt, do your research or ask before you cast – it helps keep things friendly and legal for everyone.
Support the Rivers You Enjoy
If you benefit from fishing these free stretches, consider giving something back. A small donation to a local river charity such as the Don Catchment Rivers Trust helps fund conservation projects, habitat improvements, and water quality initiatives – all of which make your fishing better.
Your Local Fly Fishing Shop in Sheffield
If you’re planning to fish these venues, why not visit our fly fishing shop in Hillsborough, Sheffield? We stock a huge range of fly fishing tackle, including:
- Premium fly rods, reels, and fly lines from leading brands
- A massive selection of trout flies and salmon flies, hand-picked for UK waters
- Leaders, tippets, and accessories for river and stillwater fishing
- Fly tying materials and tools for those who like to create their own patterns
Our team are passionate anglers with years of experience fishing the rivers and stillwaters around Sheffield and South Yorkshire. We’re always happy to share advice on where’s fishing well, what flies to use, and the latest tactics for success.
Find us easily in Hillsborough, Sheffield – or shop online at Peaks Fly Fishing.
