#155: The Lakeland Angler – On Derwent Water with Eric Hope
- dave7057
- Nov 14, 2025
- 1 min read
...in which we spend a perfect autumn day 'gone fishing' on Derwent Water with angler-author Eric Hope.
Setting out from Lodore, we cast our minds – and line – back to Eric's Lancashire childhood, and the day trips he made to Windermere, where he fell in love with angling and the Lakes.
With waves lapping against the boat, Eric introduces us to the pastime that has given him a career and lifelong passion; to game and coarse fishing; to lines, bait and olives.
Delving deep into the 'mangroves' of Manesty, we talk salmon on the world-class River Eden and introduce the 'holy trinity' glacial relics of Cumbria: the Arctic Charr, Schelly and Vendace.
After diversions aplenty (why ice made Keswick; the 'floating island' of Derwent Water; the monster Pike of Windermere), we consider the zen of fishing – immersion in nature, mysteries beneath the waves, a chance to properly talk.
Closing with our quickfire questions, Eric reveals his love for High Pike, the ODG, Wainwright's Eastern Fells... and Cranstons.
Eric's book, Tales of a Lakeland Angler, is available here: medlarpress.com/Authors/eric-hope.html
Eric's guiding business, Hemmingways Fishing is here: hemmingwaysfish.co.uk/
Loved this peaceful journey on Derwent Water with Eric Hope, rich stories, gentle wisdom, and the true zen of fishing. It’s the kind of read that makes you slow down and savor nature, much like a calm morning at Tybee Island Beach Savannah.