The Skeeby Beck Syndicate is temporarily on hold due to a major pollution incident.
Fly Fishing Yorkshire is privileged to have a 2.4km section of Skeeby Beck near Richmond, fly fishing for Grayling and Wild Brown Trout (Strictly catch and release).
We have had this stretch of Skeeby Beck since 2020. This river was in need of serious attention of which it got; we have made this into an anglers paradise. Skeeby Beck has instantly gained a name for its grayling numbers, during its first few months it has already produced a 3lb grayling. It's winter fishing has also been recognised as being something special. The beck also has some wonderful brown trout which during the Mayfly hatch really proved themselves. Skeeby is an unusually deep beck in areas, this gives great salvation for fish and purposefully unkempt areas to act as a firebreak to help bring sanctuary to the fish.
Our stretch of Skeeby Beck is split up into 3 beats, which are known as: 'Old Maids', 'Nderit' and 'The Horse Pasture', Each beat boasts its own special character, as detailed below.
The longest of the beats, another classic section which has slow deep pools to faster runs. The Horse Pasture runs through open grassland, its a very picturesque area through the tall meadow grasses. At certain times of year it will even allow the stalking angler to pick out individual fish, but stealth is the key. At the highest point of the beat is the bridge pool, a wonderful pool where there is a real chance of a sea trout or even maybe a salmon later in the year.
The middle section known as Nderit is a brilliant section which constantly moves from a run into deep pool, as with most of the beck it is easy wading with the base being fine gravel. Ladders offer ease of access in and out of the water. Nederit comes with a private feel when fishing due to the steep sides, and with the trees all managed its no issue for the angler.
Old Maids is the lowest beat on the beck, a mixture of fast runs and riffles, including a lovely section through a wood which is a savour on those hot days. As with the whole beck, all the trees have had attention and there are even benches for the pondering angler. As with all the beats they have a natural tight meander which creates the perfect water movement.
The Skeeby Beck Syndicate offers fantastic parking along the whole beat, with ladders and benches along the full stretch. Every member receives a beat map, membership card, and vehicle sticker. Fishing the beck with a 7.6ft #3 for standard dry fly and nymphing, although longer rods of 9.6ft and 10ft #2/3 for euro nymphing is a lethal method. The syndicate is made up of a small number of members to keep the fishing light and personal. If you would like to become a member or would like further information on Skeeby Beck, please get in touch.