Damian Robinson

United Kingdom

For Damian Robinson, the turning point wasn’t a gradual shift, but a total rearrangement of life. In 2014, Damian stepped onto the banks of the River Dove as a complete novice for a guided session. He left the water that day with more than just a new hobby; he left with an obsession that would eventually lead him to become a Douglas Pro, guide, and mentor, and a member of the prestigious Peacock Fly Fishing Club in Derbyshire.

The Philosophy of the Hunt

Based in the rugged heart of the United Kingdom’s Peak District, Damian’s approach to fly fishing is defined by a deep, tactical connection to the water. To him, the sport is a puzzle to be solved through observation and patience.

"There is no better feeling than reading a piece of water, matching the hatch, and finishing it off by casting your own fly to a fish of a lifetime."

This commitment to technical precision has yielded remarkable results, including a 3lb 14oz River Brown Trout and a staggering 3lb 4oz River Grayling. Whether he is stalking wild trout through the spring or braving the biting Derbyshire cold for winter grayling, Damian’s presence on the river is a constant through every season.

From Bench to Bank

Damian’s journey into fly tying was born from a simple, personal challenge: the desire to see a fish rise to his own creation. That initial curiosity evolved into a refined standard of fly design. Damian doesn't tie for the display case; he ties for the drift. His design philosophy is rooted in efficiency and effectiveness. He prioritizes patterns that are:

1) Replicable: Easy for other anglers to tie and use.

2) Durable: Built to withstand the technical demands of the Peak District’s finest rivers.

3) Irresistible: Refined through constant trial and error on the water.

Guiding The Next Generation

As a Douglas Pro and dedicated guide, Damian views his role as more than just catching fish; it’s about passing on the torch. He is deeply committed to helping newcomers navigate the steep learning curve of the sport, offering the same guidance that once changed his own life back in 2014.

Damian takes particular pride in mentoring young anglers, providing the technical advice and encouragement needed to foster a lifelong respect for the river. Supported by industry-leading brands, he utilizes professional-grade materials and equipment to refine patterns that stand up to the demands of the UK's most storied waters.

By combining technical expertise with a passion for education, Damian ensures that the future of fly fishing in the Peak District remains as vibrant as the wild fish that inhabit it.