Hawes Water near Shap: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Hawes Water lies within the bounds of Cumbria, England. The shore lies 19 miles out. It measures some 912 acres, and wind has room to build across it. Shoreline length is close to 9.7 miles, and each section fishes a little differently. Compared with other England water on our list, it sits high. 5.2 miles away sits Shap, the nearest town. It is 50 miles to Blackpool, the nearest city. The area boundary is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Hawes Water

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Cumbria records list brown trout, Atlantic salmon, European eel and perch among the fish reported. Several of these carry legal protection or closed seasons; the rulebook comes before the rod. The shape of Hawes Water rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Average temperature peaks around 13°C in July and bottoms out near 2°C in January. The year gives four workable seasons without severe ends. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. April and May are the settled weeks, with October close behind. The season on Hawes Water follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  The paperwork position is blank for this one. You can leave the car about half a mile from the water. There is a jetty half a mile off, worth knowing on a busy day. The water sits inside or beside a nature reserve, so expect extra rules. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Brothers Water sits 5 miles off and takes the overflow. For Hawes Water, the notice at the access point is the final word.