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Malham Tarn

Malham Tarn

Water managed by The National Trust

Type
Lake
Species
Brown trout and Perch
High alkalinity (Marl)
High alkalinity indicates water fertility and can signal the presence of larger trout. Fish in alkaline waters have a wider variety of invertebrates to feed on.
Very shallow
The depth of a lake has significant impacts on its ecology. Reduced heat and light in deep lakes inhibit algal growth.
Low shoreline complexity
A lake with a high shoreline complexity will have numerous bays, points and peninsulas.
Mid elevation
Lakes at a higher altitude can take longer to warm up during the season and may not fish well until summer.
Large
Larger lakes with good spawning often contain lots of smaller trout. Smaller lakes with limited spawning can produce larger trout.

Malham Tarn is a glacial lake near the village of Malham in the Yorkshire Dales, England. It is 377 metres above sea level, making it the highest marl lake in England. The lake is one of only eight upland alkaline lakes in Europe.

Its 150 acres of Marl bedrock are a perfect habitat for invertebrates which are prayed upon by a population of fast-growing large wild brown trout.

Traditional "loch style" fishing is successful, with long drifts being accomplished due to the relative overall shallowness of the tarn. A drogue and an electric outboard are now supplied with the boat hire, which will help as the tarn is exposed and making a slow steady drift can be difficult even in the lightest of winds.

The Tarn has the reputation of being England's best wild trout fishery. Not an easy place to catch but perseverance and patience can be rewarded with a fish of a lifetime.

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