• Menu
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Alba Game Fishing Logo, fly fishing Scotland, Orvis Endorsed guiding company

Fishing trips throughout Scotland

Header Right

Orvis Endorsed guides, Orvis, fishing guide, Scotland
UK +44 7734 810 706   USA TOLL FREE 800-972-0408

Mobile Menu

  • Home
  • About
    • About Home
    • Why Alba Game Fishing
    • Team of fishing guides
    • Videos
    • What Fishing Tackle is best in Scotland
    • Fishing in Scotland – Blog
    • 2020 Fishing and Touring in Scotland Brochure
  • Packages
    • Packages Home
    • Salmon Fishing Scotland
    • Trout Fishing in Scotland
    • Pike Angling
    • Corporate Events
    • Saltwater Fly Fishing – Sea Fishing Trips in Scotland
    • Fishing Gift Vouchers in Scotland, UK
    • Grayling Fishing
    • Bespoke Luxury Vacations in Scotland
  • Corporate Fishing
    • Corporate Incentive groups fishing in Scotland
    • Fly Fishing Experience Days Team Building
    • Corporate and Incentives – Trout fishing near Aberdeen
    • Learn to fly fish in Scotland
  • Partners
    • Scott Mackenzie Fly Rods for salmon fishing in Scotland
    • Barrio Fly Lines
    • 4×4 Hire Scotland
    • Links
  • Bespoke Vacations
    • Hidden Gems Mixed Fishing & Touring Vacation in Scotland
    • Macnab challenge in Scotland
    • River Tweed Fishing Lodge September/ October
    • Fishing vacation, staying in Fishing Lodge in Scotland – Perfect Staycation
  • Fishing Accommodation
  • North American Guests
  • Basket

UK +44 7734 810 706  

USA TOLL FREE 800-972-0408

  • Home
  • About
    • About Home
    • Why Alba Game Fishing
    • Team of fishing guides
    • Videos
    • What Fishing Tackle is best in Scotland
    • Fishing in Scotland – Blog
    • 2020 Fishing and Touring in Scotland Brochure
  • Packages
    • Packages Home
    • Salmon Fishing Scotland
    • Trout Fishing in Scotland
    • Pike Angling
    • Corporate Events
    • Saltwater Fly Fishing – Sea Fishing Trips in Scotland
    • Fishing Gift Vouchers in Scotland, UK
    • Grayling Fishing
    • Bespoke Luxury Vacations in Scotland
  • Corporate Fishing
    • Corporate Incentive groups fishing in Scotland
    • Fly Fishing Experience Days Team Building
    • Corporate and Incentives – Trout fishing near Aberdeen
    • Learn to fly fish in Scotland
  • Partners
    • Scott Mackenzie Fly Rods for salmon fishing in Scotland
    • Barrio Fly Lines
    • 4×4 Hire Scotland
    • Links
  • Bespoke Vacations
    • Hidden Gems Mixed Fishing & Touring Vacation in Scotland
    • Macnab challenge in Scotland
    • River Tweed Fishing Lodge September/ October
    • Fishing vacation, staying in Fishing Lodge in Scotland – Perfect Staycation
  • Fishing Accommodation
  • North American Guests
  • Basket

Stewart Collingswood

Author of the website Alba Game Fishing. Fishing trips in Scotland

Angling Law in Scotland – Can you fish for salmon on a Sunday?

July 12, 2023 //  by Stewart Collingswood

General Angling Law Overview

Unlike other countries (including England and Wales) Scotland has no State licencing system for fishing. It is however a criminal offence to fish for salmon without legal right or written permission and generally it is a civil offence to fish for other fishes. Details of the most significant statutes that apply are given below. Much of this information was derived from “The Law of Game, Salmon & Freshwater Fishing in Scotland” by Stanley Scott Robinson*. It is not be taken as a definitive description of the laws. Relevant Acts should instead be consulted.

* The Law of Game, Salmon & Freshwater Fishing in Scotland. Stanley Scott Robinson. Published by Butterworths and the Law Society of Scotland, 1990. Ban on the sale of rod caught salmon and sea trout effective from October 1 2002. Citation and commencement
1. These Regulations may be cited as the Conservation of Salmon (Prohibition of Sale) (Scotland) Regulations 2002 and shall come into force on 1st October 2002. Prohibition of sale
2. – (1) No person shall sell, offer or expose for sale any salmon that has been taken by rod and line. (2) In paragraph (1), “rod and line” means single rod and line with such bait or lure as is lawful on 1st October 2002. EXPLANATORY NOTE (This note is not part of the Regulations) These Regulations prohibit the sale, offer or exposure for sale in Scotland of any salmon that has been taken using a rod and line (regulation 2). “Salmon” means all migratory fish of the species Salmo salar and Salmo trutta commonly known as salmon and sea trout. It also includes parts of any such fish. Provision is made in section 10B of the Salmon Act 1986 Act (“the 1986 Act”) applying powers of enforcement, entry, search and arrest to water bailiffs, constables and persons appointed by the Scottish Ministers for the purposes of the enforcement of the prohibition imposed by these Regulations. In terms of section 10C of the 1986 Act any person who acts in contravention of these Regulations shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding level 4 on the standard scale (£2,500 at the date this instrument comes into force). The announcement can read in full on the Scottish Office web site. Salmon Definition

Section 24(1) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Protection) (Scotland) Act 1951 defines salmon as:

“Salmon” includes all migratory fish of the species Salmo salar and Salmo trutta and commonly known as salmon and sea trout respectively or any part of any such fish”

Ownership of and access to salmon fishing

Ownership

Until captured, salmon are wild animals. Once captured, the salmon belongs at common law to the captor. However, numerous statutes forbidding the taking of salmon without right or written permission, and forfeitures imposed by statute, have made possession of salmon safe only where they have been taken by lawful means. Nevertheless, the basic position is that it is not the salmon but the right to fish for them that is owned.

Thus, nobody may fish for salmon in rivers or estuaries or in the sea within territorial limits without permission of the Crown or the party vested in the Crown rights. In many cases in rivers, estuaries and in the sea, the rights have been granted to private individuals, companies, local authorities and others. Salmon fishing rights are heritable titles and may be held separately from ownership of the land or may have been given along with ownership of the land. Where the right is held separately from the land, the proprietor of the right has an implied right of access for the purpose of exercising his right to fish for salmon. The fishing right must be exercised in such a way that it causes the least prejudice to the rights of the riparian owner.

The right to fish for salmon carries with it the inferior right to fish for trout but this right must not be exercised in a way that will interfere with the rights of the riparian owner.

Access

Section 1 of the 1951 Act (as amended by the Salmon Act 1986) states:

“1. If any person without legal right, or without written permission from a person having such right, fishes for or takes salmon in any waters including any part of the sea within one mile of mean low water springs, he shall be guilty of an offence ……”

Thus, access to salmon fishing is available only to the owner of a salmon fishery or with the express, written permission of the owner. The owner may attach conditions to the permission, such as method, location, times available etc. The owner may not, however, give permission to do anything that is unlawful. No rod licence is required.

Access to rod fisheries for those without right is thus by private agreement with the owner. Access is widely available throughout Scotland but costs involved depend on a number of factors, including catch expectations, whether accommodation is attached, whether a ghillie is provided and so on.

Regulations

Weekly Close Times

The prohibition of fishing for salmon during the weekly close time is contained in section 13 of the 1951 Act, as amended by the Freshwater and Salmon Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1976 (section 7 and Schedule 3) and the Salmon (Weekly Close Time) (Scotland) Regulations 1988 (SI 1988/390) made under the terms of section 3(3) of the 1986 Act.

Angling – the weekly close time for rods is Sunday.

Annual Close Times

Section 6(1) of the 1986 Act requires that the annual close time shall be a continuous period of not less than 168 days and is to apply to every mode of fishing for or taking salmon except during periods within the close time when it is permitted to fish by rod and line. The annual close time for the River Tweed is a continuous period of not less than 153 days.

The exact dates of annual close times vary between Salmon Fishery Districts but are generally from about the end of August to mid-February.

The close seasons for most Salmon Fishery Districts date from byelaws of 1864 and 1865 made under section 6(5) of the Salmon Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1862. That Act was repealed by the 1986 Act but the byelaws were preserved. Close seasons for other Districts have been defined in Statutory Instruments relating to the Districts concerned.

Under the terms of section 6 of the 1986 Act, the Scottish Ministers may prescribe for any district the dates and times of the annual close time (although it may not be made less than 168 days), and the periods within that close time when it is permitted to take salmon by rod and line, and may make different provisions for different parts of the district.

Fishing by rod and line

Section 24(1) of the 1951 Act, as amended by section 8(6) of the 1986 Act, defines rod and line as:

“single rod and line with such bait or lure as is lawful at the passing of this Act and, in the case of fishing for salmon in an area to which and at a time during which regulations made under section 8 of the Salmon Act 1986 apply, is not specified in such regulations in respect of that area and time”.

This definition has been taken to preclude the use of double rod fishing, cross line fishing, set lines, otter fishing, burning the water etc as proscribed in the Trout (Scotland) Act 1860, which was repealed by the 1951 Act.

Application may be made by a District salmon Fishery Board to Scottish Ministers to make regulations specifying baits and lures that may not be used in its district. The proposal may apply for different times when and areas where the regulations take effect. Eighteen Orders specifying baits and lures have been made, usually to prohibit the use of shrimps, prawns or worms as bait and the use of lures bearing multiple sets of hooks. Freshwater fish Definition

Section 24(1) of the 1951 Act defines freshwater fish as:

” “Freshwater fish” means any fish living in fresh water, including trout, and eels and the fry of eels, but exclusive of salmon and of any kind of fish which migrate between the open sea and tidal waters;”

Section 24(1) of the 1951 Act defines trout as:

” “Trout” means non-migratory trout of the species Salmo trutta living in fresh waters or estuaries;”

Ownership

Private waters

Until captured, freshwater fish are wild animals. Once captured, the fish belongs at common law to the captor. However, the legal right to take such fish as can be captured belongs to the proprietor of the land which is contiguous to the river, stream or loch in which the fish are to be found. Thus, although there is no right of property in the fish before capture, only the proprietor of the lands or those authorised by him, have the right of fishing for them. Except in the case of waters subject to a Protection Order and in the waters entering the Solway, protection of the fishing right depends upon the common law of trespass. The remedy of a proprietor or occupier against an unauthorised fisherman is to order him from the locus, and, in the event of refusal or threatened repetition, to initiate an action of interdict.

The broad principles involved are:

No one has any right to trespass upon the lands of another for the purpose of fishing;

No one, even if he is lawfully on the bank of a river or loch under a right of access, has the right to fish in the river or loch;

Members of the public, having neither title nor right, cannot establish a right by any usage of fishing for however long a period, as against a proprietor having title to the land over which the stream flows.

These are principles of civil law and can be enforced only in civil proceedings.

Apart from in the Solway and where Protection Orders are in force, there is only one case where unauthorised fishing by a trespasser can be made the subject of criminal proceedings, and this is under the Theft Act 1607. The Act applies to an ordinary fish pond, or “stank”, enclosed all round where the fish may no longer be said to be feeding in a state of nature. It applies to any artificial pond or reservoir which has been stocked by the owner and which has neither inlet nor outlet. Any person removing trout from a stank without authority from the owner or occupier of the land surrounding it is guilty of theft. It is open to question whether anyone taking fish from an ordinary river or stream which has been stocked is guilty of theft.

In the case of a loch acquired by a Water Authority, a previous owner may reserve rights of fishing but the fishing must not be done in such a way that it will interfere with the purity of the water.

Public waters

Public waters are those which are both navigable and tidal. The tide must ebb and flow at the point where the right is claimed and the right extends up rivers as far as ordinary spring tides.

Fishing for freshwater fish

In general, the only permitted method of fishing for freshwater fish is by rod and line as defined in Section 24(1) of the 1951 Act, as amended by section 8(6) of the 1986 Act. However, under section 2(2) of the 1951 Act, in any pond or loch, where all proprietors agree, a right of fishing for trout by net may be exercised, and in any inland water, a proprietor or occupier having a right of freshwater fishing may take any freshwater fish other than trout by means of a net or trap.

Access

In general, it is not a criminal offence to fish for or take trout in Scotland. However, this does not imply that there is, as some would assert, a free right to fish anywhere. The rights of riparian owners are protected by principles of civil law and permission should be sought before fishing.

There are some differences in relation to waters flowing into the Solway Firth. Section 9 of the Solway Act 1804 (this section is still in force) makes it an offence to fish for salmon or other fish without permission. However, this no longer applies to the River Annan and Border Esk. The 1951 Act is usually used in the case of salmon.

Protection Orders

Protection Orders may be made under the 1976 Act. Section 1 of this Act states that:

“Where Scottish Ministers are satisfied that, if proposals submitted under this section were implemented, there would be a significant increase in the availability of fishing for freshwater fish in inland waters to the which the proposals relate, they may, subject to subsection (3) below, make an order (in this Act referred to as a “Protection Order”);”

Thirteen Protection Orders are currently in force. The locations of the areas covered are shown on the map.

Principal statutory offences relating to fishing for freshwater fish

Where a Protection Order is in operation, it is an offence to fish for or take fish from inland waters in the prescribed area without legal right or written permission from the person having such right. (Freshwater and Salmon Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1976)

Where a Protection Order is in operation, it is an offence to contravene any prohibition contained in that order or to attempt to commit such an offence or do any act preparatory to the commission thereof. (Freshwater and Salmon Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1976)

Where a Protection Order is in operation, it is an offence to wilfully obstruct or refuse to allow a warden or other authorised person to exercise his statutory powers of enquiry, entry and seizure. (Freshwater and Salmon Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1976)

It is an offence to fish for or take freshwater fish in inland waters other than by rod and line. The use of double rod fishing is unlawful. (Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Protection) (Scotland) Act 1951)

It is an offence to fish for trout during the annual close time, which is between 7 October and 14 March. This offence and the offence of having trout in possession during the annual close time does not apply to the owner, occupier or lessee of any water where trout are kept in captivity or artificially reared and fed, or any employee there for that purpose, or to any person to whom such fish have been consigned for e.g. stocking. (Freshwater Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1902, amended by Trout (Scotland) Act 1933)

Subject to the above, having trout in possession during the annual close time is an offence. (Freshwater Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1902, amended by Trout (Scotland) Act 1933)

It is an offence to possess non-migratory trout or instruments, poisons or explosives which could be used for taking trout, in circumstances which afford reasonable grounds for suspecting that the accused had obtained possession of such trout or the instruments etc as a result or for the purpose of committing an offence against sections 1-4 of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Protection) (Scotland) Act 1951

It is an offence for any owner, occupier or lessee of water where trout are kept in captivity and artificially reared and fed to take any trout during the annual close time except for scientific or breeding purposes or for removal to other waters. (Freshwater Fisheries (Scotland) Act 1902, and Trout (Scotland) Act 1933)

Category: Uncategorized

Salmon fishing with vintage fishing tackle – a good idea?

April 6, 2023 //  by Stewart Collingswood

River Spey, Salmon Fishing, Playing a salmon
A River Spey Springer

“Ignoring the fact that just stripping the line off the spool gave me tennis elbow I started to cast.

The 1976 Sharpes responded like a limp piece of spaghetti”

Vintage Fishing tackle and the mid life crisis

Fishing with vintage tackle…written by James (Boo) Gilbraith.

The cliché is a fifty-year-old man on a Honda Fireblade. Using his fifty year old reflexes to control a wild stallion doing one hundred and forty miles an hour.  In his head he is glorious. In his head he is eighteen. Meanwhile his neurotransmitters are freaking out and eating themselves. At 140mph reality doesn’t just bite. It devours. If he survives, the bike will be on Ebay in under two weeks.

My mid-life crisis ran in the opposite direction. My question was this – just how slow can I go?  I didn’t purchase a Fireblade. My buy was another kind of custard.

Treasure from the car boot sale

At a car boot I bought a Sharpes of Aberdeen – Scottie spliced thirteen foot double hander and a Beaudex reel by J.W Young & Sons. 

The rod was lovingly cleaned. The reel was greased, and a new line was added. The combo looked better than Maradona in a Napoli shirt. 

Secretly I imagined my friends faces when I turned up bankside with my new outfit like a spliced version of Isaack Walton and Mr Crabtree. I would revel in my authenticity. Enter Isaack Crabtree.

That was the dream. The reality was something else. 

The Romance of fishing with vintage gear…or not

As I get older, I cannot resist a rummage at auctions or flea markets etc. Anglers have to be optimists and every time I find myself rooting through birdsnests of mono and rusty corroded sea hooks, I am convinced that in the next box will be a Vintage Hardy Cascapedia or a Gregory lure.  Most of my buys are purely to look at and to save so that time doesn’t blow them all away. Wistful nostalgia and a collector’s drive can transport you further than dynamite will blow you.

So, on a day in October that boasted a rare day of perfect conditions I found myself on the club car park assembling my new vintage outfit. Feeling proud and excited in equal measure I made the mile walk to my favourite pool hoping for a late season salmon. Cunningly I had engineered a gap in time to steal my way to the river. Summer had left me almost bereft through a lack or angling opportunities, so I was full of vigour to use this outfit and create a graceful ballet in split cane.

Lowering myself into the river I stripped line off the Beaudex and listened to its great throaty pawl. Ignoring the fact that just stripping the line off the spool gave me tennis elbow I started to cast. The 1976 Sharpes responded like a limp piece of spaghetti. Changing my style to a slower action the line eventually went out (ish) but within minutes I had realised that four hours of Spey casting would have sent me to the A&E Out Patients at my local hospital. 

In A&E I would have to get creative and tell the overloaded nursing staff that I had hurt my back while heroically saving a child from a high scaffold. And not by poncing about with vintage fishing tackle.

As my friend Lamont recently told me. “I’m hanging on in there with carbon fibre. Sure, I’ve seen chop sticks but I’ve already got a fork”.

Essential Reading from Boo Gilbraith

Hooked on Hope Is the follow up book to 2014s Terminal Chancer Silver Seasons Atlantic Salmon.
Emancipated from the drudgery of nine-to-five and buoyed by the flexibility of self-employment, Boo resolves to take his newfound freedom and use it to navigate the predictably unpredictable waters of the River Ribble, where success comes to only the most committed of anglers.


Flanked by a colourful cast of characters, not least the eccentric and excitable Lamont, Boo enters the fishing season feeling a sense of optimism that comes with knowing that the reward is the journey rather than the destination, although he wouldn’t turn his nose up at a massive Ribble salmon.

Anarchy Pie follows on from where Terminal Chancer and Hooked on Hope left off. Boo Gilbraith emerges from lockdown after choking on the splinters of Covid. Armed with a new resolve to fish more and to reinforce his own small mundane world.

Join him and his conflicted and dislocated associate Lamont as they search for life’s treasures along the banks of the river.

Expect – ghosts, witches, mortality, grief, romans, folklore, killer dogs, giant salmon, epic trout, stupidity, wisdom and lots of laughter

fishing, vintage fishing tackle
Sharps salmon rod

The rod was lovingly cleaned.

The reel was greased, and a new line was added.

The combo looked better than Maradona in a Napoli shirt.

Category: News

Ultimate guide to a fishing vacation for salmon, trout and grayling in Scotland 

March 25, 2023 //  by Stewart Collingswood

Are you thinking of fishing in Scotland? Perhaps you also want to add some touring? We created this ultimate guide to a fishing and touring vacation in Scotland, to help overseas guests plan their trip.

Firstly, Scotland has over 30,00 lochs, and thousands of rivers. Indeed some of the world’s most iconic salmon rivers, and a fishing heritage that is unparalleled. We can help you target the right species, at the right time of year.

Ultimate guide, Bespoke Luxury, Vacations, Quiraing, Old man of Storr, Skye, scenic fishing locations in Scotland, Orvis Guides, Scotland, fishing in Scotland.
A family portrait on tour in Skye

When is the best time for fishing and touring in Scotland?

Scotland has a temperate and oceanic climate. There are four distinct four seasons; spring, summer, autumn and winter. Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable but rarely extreme. 

Additionally, the weather in the last decade has got distinctly warmer. For example, we can enjoy hot summer days in April, and cooler days in mid summer. Naturally, it pays to layer up at any time of the year, and bring the right clothing. There is a guide below on what to wear for each season. 

A break down of fishing month to month

November to February – To begin, If you are happy with colder weather, Scotland offer much in the winter. You can fish for Grayling and Pike. Touring is easier as roads are quiet during the winter months. Moreover scenery and light can be breathtaking, especially during frosty or snowy conditions.

March to May – Scotland in Spring is a wonderful time to visit. Brown Trout fishing is outstanding in late March and April. The salmon rivers are in full swing as anglers go in search of an elusive Springer. In addition as we approach May, the days get very long and evening fishing and touring is possible. 

June to August – Mid summer is when the Highland rivers and lochs fish best. in fact, the River Spey, River Ness and River Dee all peak in these months. Also, for guests who are touring the days are long and the weather very pleasant. 

Ultimate guide, fishing in Scotland, Lodge, River Tweed, vouchers, Salmon Fishing, Spey Casting, Robson Green, Jim and Robson Icelandic adventure, salmon,
Salmon Fishing on the River Tweed in Autumn

September to October – The Autumn or Fall is truly a majestic time in Scotland. Firstly because of the autumnal colours as leaves turn brown. Also the scenery can be outstandingly dramatic. In addition, the salmon rivers The River Tay and River Tweed are approaching their peak and large number of salmon enter the river systems to spawn. Lastly, touring is a good choice in Autumn. The roads are less busy, and the scenery and changing light is breathtaking. 

Ultimate Guide – What currency is used in Scotland?

To begin with, the currency is Scotland is the British Pound. One hundred pounds is written as £100 GBP (Great British Pounds).

Additionally overseas visitors can withdraw cash in GBP currency throughout Scotland in numerous ATM or cash machines. Lastly, credit cards are accepted everywhere. A small proportion of businesses do not accept American Express, but this is rare nowadays. 

Difference between USA and UK power supply

The standard UK voltage is 240v, whereas the United States standard voltage is 120v. Reassuringly most devices like iPhones and laptops will accept the higher voltage provided by electrical sockets in the UK. Also, you can use simple adaptors that converts the two pin plug to the 3 pin IK plug. These are easily purchased on Amazon if you search for “US to UK plug adapter” 

Ultimate guide, fishing in Scotland, USA to UK Adapter,
USA to UK Adapter

Ultimate Guide – Is Scotland a safe country to visit?

To begin with, Scotland is a safe country to visit. In fact, most of the crimes committed are confined to the large cities. The come rate in England and Wales is the highest in the UK. Lastly, Scotland’s crime rate has improved, dropping from 93.4 crimes per 1,000 people in 2002/03, to just 52.4 by 2021/22.

Generally speaking, you will find the Scots people, warm, friendly and humorous. Always willing to help and honest and hard working. 

What is the best airport for a fishing vacation in Scotland?

Most overseas flights arrive in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Understandably, Edinburgh is the best choice, as it offers easy access to the capital city and a vast portfolio of rivers like the Tay, Tweed, Spey and Dee. 

Ultimate guide, fishing in Scotland, touring, vacation, transport Edinburgh
Guests on a fishing and touring vacation in Scotland.

Edinburgh Airport is approx 30 minutes taxi ride from the city centre. Also its possible to get to the airport by taxi, tram and Uber. 

Alternatively, if you are looking to visit the Highlands only, Inverness airport is a good choice. Inverness is usually reached via a flight from London. 

Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and Self Catering in Scotland

Throughout Scotland there are many great places to stay, but it’s important to understand, you should book well in advance. If you consider Scotland is a small country, with a population of about 5 million people, good accommodation gets booked up quickly. Naturally, you can book through channels such as Air BNB, Booking.com and other channels. However, its worth checking out this carefully chosen list, of some of Scotland’s best accommodation 

Ultimate guide, fishing in Scotland, Castle, Scotland, Fenton Tower, East Lothian
Pick up for guests a castle near Edinburgh

Category: News

Identify the various phases of the Atlantic Salmon life cycle

February 8, 2023 //  by Stewart Collingswood

Atlantic salmon can be referred to as Rawners, Baggots, Kelts, Springers, and Grilse. Hopefully, this article will help you understand the various terms used to describe their remarkable life cycle.

This article will help you identify these various stages and life cycle of the salmon

River Whiteadder, Lodge, salmon, trout, grayling, Fishing guide, scotland, borders, gift vouchers
A maturing hen fish, ready to spawn.

The salmon is born in the river and spends the fist few year of its life as a salmon parr. Basically, salmon parr behave, and feed like trout and feed on fly life, shrimp, larvae and other insects. As they gain weight in the second year and approach early spring, a chemical change occurs in their scales, and they start to turn silver.

This change from a brown lustre to bright silver, is in anticipation of migration to the ocean. From this point forward, the young salmon will feed and gain weight in the ocean. Afterwards, and depending on the term spent at sea, the salmon will return to the river to spawn, as a Grilse or a mature salmon.

How to indentify a Grilse – Atlantic Salmon

Firstly, Grilse are salmon that has spent one winter at sea feeding and return to the freshwater river to spawn. They usually enter the rivers in early summer, between July and Mid August. However, this can vary from region to region and also river to river.

salmon, Atlantic salmon, fishing, speycasting, catch and release, River Tay, Salmon,
A bright clean Grilse released on the Tay.

Girls arrive in the summer and late summer. Good number of these salmon enter the river systems and can make for some great sport. Remarkably, they fight very hard, often we have hooked and landed smaller fish, between 6-8lb, which seemed much bigger.

Typically these Grilse can range in weight from 2lb to 7lb, depending on the quality of their ocean diet.

Grilse, River Tay, Salmon, Salmon Fishing, Fly Fishing, Scotland
A typical River Tay Grilse

Springer – Spring Salmon

Firstly “Springers” are the ultimate prize for any salmon angler. Secondly, these fish are strong, well conditioned and bright silver. “Springers” are strong and well conditioned, after sea feeding. Finally, their strength is needed for spawning and the arduous challenges ahead.

Generally Springers will enter the Scottish rivers from January to May. Understandably, catching a Springer in Scotland, is on every serious salmon anglers bucket list.

Atlantic Salmon, Springer, Identify, River Tay, Trophy, Big Salmon, Catch and Release,
A 27lb Springer form the River Tay in March 2023

Springers are salmon that have spent 2 or 3 winters at sea, before returning to the river to spawn. Commonly these are know as Multi-Sea-Wintered Fish.

Autumn Salmon

Autumn salmon can look completely different in many ways to a fresh silver salmon. Some of these Autumn fish have been in freshwater for months, and therefore take on the colour of their environment. In addition a chemical change occurs within the pigmentation of the salmon’s scales, prior to spawning.

River Tweed, Big Salmon, Cock fish, Autumn colours, Spawning, Catch and Release
A big male (Cock) Salmon in full spawning colours River Tweed

Firstly male salmon, develop a Kype, as you will see in the image above. Secondly this is a sex like characteristic, causing a curvature of the lower jaw in cock fish. Secondly, the salmon in the photo above, has also developed spawning colouration. Also, in Scotland, we call these salmon, “Tartan Fish” and this fish is almost in full breeding dress.

Atlantic salmon, Kelt, Springer, Grilse, Salmon fishing, Identification,
The various stages of the Atlantic Salmon

How to identify a Kelt – Atlantic Salmon

A kelt is term given to a salmon after it has spawned. Usually they display a distended vent. In addition they are much thinner than a fresh fish, having used their reserve in the process of spawning.

Atlantic Salmon Kelts, usually have gill maggots. Of course, these fish must be returned to the river safely and quickly, so they can return to the ocean, to regenerate, repair and gain weight.

Finally, a returned 2 sea winter kelt can return to the river again in the future as a real trophy salmon.

Atlantic salmon, Kelt, Salmon fishing, well mended
A Kelt from the River Tweed.

What is a Baggot?

A Baggot is a female Atlantic salmon who has failed to spawn. Sometimes, a salmon who has also started but not finished the spawning process. Typically, they can be identified by a soft under carriage, a darker head and enlarged anal fin.

What is a Rawner?

A Rawner is a male Atlantic Salmon that has failed to spawn.

Atlantic Salmon Parr

The Salmon Parr lives, feeds and grows in freshwater rivers for a couple of years. Naturally, its prime concern is in escaping predation, from Trout, Goosanders, Cormorants, Herons, and Kingfishers. Hence the camouflage marking it adopts.

Lastly, salmon parr do look similar to trout parr, and the two often get misidentified. Uniquely, the Parr, has a longer shape to its body, no orange on its adipose fin, a sharper snout, smaller mouth and a more pronounced fork in the tail. Thanks to Lizzie Harper for the two beautiful illustrations below.

Atlantic Salmon Parr © Lizzie Harper

Smolt – Young Salmon

To begin with, after a few years feeding in the river, the your parr goes through something akin to puberty and a physical metamorphosis. Secondly, this change is preparing it for the migration to sea. Also, this smolt migration happens in early spring and with good river levels, the smolts can get safely to the ocean and escape the mouths of hungry predators.

There’s a remarkable chemical change which occurs. Guanine crystals form a layer in the skin, and the scales change to a silver colour. Brown trout fisherman know only too well, that there are some very big predatory trout caught during the smolt migration.

The Atlantic Salmon Smolt © Lizzie Harper

Category: News

Top 10 – Best trout flies for the River Tweed

January 31, 2023 //  by Stewart Collingswood

This post reveals our top 10 trout flies for the River Tweed.

Top 10 – Best trout flies for the River Tweed

The Jingler

trout flies, trout fly, Jingler. River Tweed
The Jingler, trout fly on the River tweed

Firstly we start with a well trusted fly pattern, The Jingler. This fly pattern has been tied with CDC wings.

Recommended Size 10-16.

This fly can be used from the start of the trout season from march to June and the smaller size would definitely do well to the end of the season.

This fly is a great dry fly at representing March Browns , brook Duns and Olives .

The fly it’s self looks like a adult fly stuck in the surface film as it’s emerging and the trout find this a easy fly to take off the top of the water

The Para Dun Olive

Secondly the Olive Para Dun, a lethal dry fly pattern.

trout flies, trout fly, Olive, Para dun. River Tweed
The Olive Para Dun dry fly

Recommended Size 12-18 on barbless hooks.

Conveniently, this fly is easy to spot on the top of the water, with the white post.

Alternatively, you could use this fly as a searching pattern, on fast moving water to induces takes. In addition it’s deadly when fished like a static dry fly through flat glides too.

The Olive Para Dun looks like an insect trapped in the surface film. Generally, this fly is a good representation of all olive types of flies.

Ideally, this Fly pattern can be used from the start of the trout season in March all the way to the end of the season but again using smaller sizes, like 16 and 18. Lastly, the fly can represent anything from Duns and spinners. You can see how to tie this pattern on the video below:

Cuillin Rae demonstrates how to tie the Olive Para Dun

The Emerger Dry Fly – one of the best trout flies on the Tweed

Here is our third choice, the Emerger dry fly.

trout flies, trout fly, Olive, Emerger, River Tweed
The Emerger Dry Fy

Recommended Size 10-18 on barbless hooks.

You definitely need to have plenty of these in your box. When the fish look like they are rising to something and there is nothing on the surface , try this pattern. You’ll find the fish will confidently take your fly.

Often trout don’t take the insect off the top of the water they tend to take the insect as it hatches on the surface. Indeed when the fly is suspended in the surface film, trout are more likely to take the fly as its less likely to fly away at the last second.

This manifests as a little dimple rise In the surface . Mostly, we would use this fly from the start to the end of the trout season.

In March to June in the bigger sizes, and then smaller sizes from June to October. This fly could represent March Browns, Olives and Iron Blue Duns, therefore can be tied with hares ear body, or black to represent a greater range of insects.

Cinnamon Para Dun – trout flies for the afternoon and evening menu

Introducing the Cinnamon paradun with extended tail.

trout flies, trout fly, Olive, Cinnamon Para Dun, River Tweed
Cinnamon Para Dun

Alba recommend sizes Size 12 to 18 on barbless hooks

Usually this fly is spotted in the evening and afternoons. Therefore we tie it an orange sighter to make it easier to see.

The Cinnamon Dun represents any spinners that are trapped in the surface film.

Typically the Spinners fly in groups over the top of the water, and sometimes collide with each other, falling to the surface. Also, on windy days, the spinners can be blown onto the surface, where trout will rise to feed on them.

Often, fish will leap out the water to gobble these flies in mid air. Lastly, this pattern is used in may through to October.

To conclude, Brook Dun spinners are best in the bigger sizes. In addition Olive upright spinners tied in smaller sizes, would represent medium olive spinners, and blue wing olive spinners and others.

Black Klinkhammer

Our next fly is the Black Klinkhammer .

trout flies, trout fly, Klinkhammer, Dry Fly, River Tweed
Black Klinkhammer Dry Fly

Our recommended sizes from 14-18 on barbless hooks.

The Kilinkhammer is good at representing Midge patterns, and also does well imitating the iron blue dun emerger . Ideally we would use this fly in May for the iron and blue Duns hatching off, and again in August up to October, when more midge and terrestrials are hatching. Definitely use this fly in size 16 and 18 from August to October.

The Pheasant Tail Nymph – surely one of the best trout flies ever?

The Pheasant tail nymph is a classic trout fly, on any water.

Pheasant Tail Nymph, trout flies, trout fly, Klinkhammer, Dry Fly, River Tweed
Pheasant Tail Nymph

We tie these from size 12 to 18 on barbless hooks.

Universally this fly is used from the start of the trout season right through to the end of the season.

Collectively, this fly represents so many insects you find under the stones.

Most of the time the trout subsurface feed, feeding on these nymphs throughout the day.

Often if there is no surface activity, this can be fished under a dry fly. Secondly, if euronymphing, you can fish these in a team of 2 to 3 Flies. Finally, from July to October this fly is best in smaller sizes 14-18.

Woolie Bugger

The Woolie bugger is one of the world’s best trout flies, and it works well on the Tweed too.

Woolie bugger, Trout Fly, Streamer, Bait fish, River Tweed, River Tay
The Woolie Bugger

Our preference is to tie in sizes of 6-12.

Typically after spring, when fish fixate on eating fish, this fly becomes effective.

Undertsandibly, Trout need protein and nutrients, lacking in small insects. Therefore they need a bigger meal to survive and thrive.

Also, bigger fly patterns are more effective after a flood. Ideally, you would add a sink tip to your fly line, to get the fly down to the target. To conclude, fish this as erratically and annoyingly as possible and use it anytime from March to October.

Water Hen Blow Spider – Soft hackle flies for the Tweed

A regular pattern when fishing the Tweed is the Water Hen Bloa Spider.

Water Hen Bloa, Soft Hackle, Spider, trout flies, wet flies, dry flies, River Tweed
Water Hen Bloa soft hackle spider

The optimum Size for these flies are 12-16’s.

Interestingly, this is a wet fly that can also be fished subsurface.

Generally, it’s great for imitating, a wide range of insects such as Olive patterns.

Preferably this is best fished, before the main hatch of insects, or at the end of a hatch of Olives. The reason for this, is that fish will be looking for surface flies, and anything in their window, is fair game.

Paradoxically you can fish this fly upstream on a floating line, or cast the fly straight across the river and let it swing in the current.

If you let the fly swing in the current, you will a savage take and tightening of your line.

In summary, use these flies throughout the season, aiming for bigger sizes until June, and then smaller sizes July to October.

The Worm Fly

Squirmie work, worm fly, trout fly, River Tweed, trout flies,
The Worm Fly or squirmy wormy

Sometimes called the Squirmie Wormy, we prefer, “The Worm Fly”.

This more subtle version, is deadly when the river is high and has some colour on it. Following a flood, the worms on river banks get washed into the water, hence these flies become very effective.

Preferred sizes are from 12-14

Often bigger fish will be captured after a spate, with the Worm, as they prefer a bigger meal with more protein. Lastly, worth mentioning, this colour shows up very well, in murky spate water.

Balloon Caddis – Effective trout flies on the Tweed

Caddis fly, balloon caddis, dry fly, trout fly, trout flies,
Balloon Caddis, trout fly for the River Tweed

Our final fly is the Balloon caddis dry fly

Usually we tie this on a size 10-16, using black , olive and hares ear for the body.

Sometimes this is effective as an indicator fly, when hanging a nymph underneath, The best size for this is 10 and 12 to give the buoyancy.

Secondly when using as a dry fly, the olive colour works at the end of April during a grannom hatch. Ideally fish them in a size 14 and 16 for this.

Ideally stick to smaller sizes during June to October. Typically Caddis swarm over the top of the water in big numbers during the evening, and find smaller numbers in the afternoon.

Whilst they are swarming and bumping int each other, the fall out gives trout the opportunity to grab them on the surface. Lastly the profile of this fly keeps it right in the surface film, mimicking a Caddis pupae emerging or adult insect stuck in surface of the water.

Flies tied by Alba Guide Cuillin Rae- article by Stewart Collingswood and Cuillin Rae © 2023

Big trout, Trophy fish, fibre glass cast, Fishing guide, Scotland, Cuillin Rae
Guess which of the above flies, this one took?

Category: News

My new life as a fishing guide in Scotland

January 4, 2023 //  by Stewart Collingswood

It’s the start of a new year, and I have been reflecting over the past year. What a year 2022 has been. 

After leaving my old job and becoming a full-time guide for Alba game fishing Ltd, I have become happier, more confident with myself.

I reflect back on all the jobs Alba delivered last year. 

It was certainly and unusual one, apart from being busy, we had to squeeze in two years of Covid reschedules. 

It’s great to see international travel come back again with guests all over the world . I have met so many great people along the way. Ghillies, guests, and other guides. I’ve made a few friends too.

Cuillin(on the right) guiding on the Deveron

My introduction to fishing on the River Tweed

I have been very fortunate to be brought up right next to the river banks of the famous River Tweed. I first learned to fish there, when I was 18 years old. 

I watched my brothers, catching small fish on their trout rods and thought that looks like fun, so ended up buying a fishing permit and giving it a try.  

I was friendly with a neighbour in our village, who give me a fly rod and fly tying kit. This helped me get started into fly fishing. 

I remember using this rod and I was fishing 2 spider flies and I swung them round under a bush, and then the line locked tight, and I connected with a fish . It was an amazing feeling because I had never experienced anything like it before, and couldn’t believe how hard these wild fish fight, and how much fun it was. 

As I got more into the Fishing on my local river, I bumped into a few members from the local Angling club. They had fished internationally for Scotland numerous times and I didn’t realise there was such thing as competition river fishing. 

Cuillin, left, with two guests, and John Anderson at the Kings Hut on the Spey

Introduction to competition fishing

I went out with one of the guys in the club, who showed me some new techniques ,methods and set ups. I was amazed how many fish you could catch in a day. It was good to see what flies he used, compare to those in my own fly box. 

After going out on the river with an internationalist, I then started looking at better rods, reels and lines. I wanted to improve my casting, distance and presentation. I also wanted a rod that was more balanced for me. I ended up getting rid of the heavy 11ft #8 weight rod I was given by my neighbour. It was far too heavy for river fishing. After advice from our local fishing tackle shop the Border Gunroom, I opted for a lighter set up, more suited to river fishing, a 9ft #5 weight. 

Scottish National Flyfishing league

Once I had built up my skills and experience over a few years fly fishing for trout, I then decided to trial the Scottish National Flyfishing league, and entered as a guest rod to experience the competition. 

The competition was held on the river tweed and it was local to me, so I was familiar with some of the pools. I remember being very nervous because I had never competed in a competition before. 

I finish the competition in second place with seven fish. I managed to catch six in the morning and just one in the afternoon. That was a great result and I was really chuffed, so I decided to enter the Scottish National flyfishing league. I’m still in the league to this date. 

River Tweed, Salmon Fishing, Spey Casting, Robson Green, Jim and Robson Icelandic adventure, salmon,
Cuillin guiding Robson Green fishing on the Tweed

European Fly Fishing Championships 2018

In 2018 I fished in my first European competition in France, called the Five Nations. In 2022 I fished in the world fly fishing, championship in Asturias, Spain. I think after doing the world fly fishing championship, I am very keen to do another one again. Competition fishing has definitely helped me to think a lot more on fly selection, and set ups to help result in a better day is fishing to suite the conditions. 

I’m thinking about things like, on a bright day when the water is low, fish a longer leader and also downsize the tippet and flies to avoid spooking any fish. Or even a simple thing, like instead of using a bright silver, tungsten bead ,changing to a black or a coffee coloured bead.

From retail to the river bank

I used to work in fishing retail. This is where I was able to build up good general knowledge on angling as a sport. I worked for Orvis in Kelso for two years, and also worked for Edinburgh Angling Center for a couple of years too. 

All of these stores sold a lot of Salmon gear too. Here I learnt a lot more about the different lines used for salmon fishing the difference between the Spey lines, Scandi lines and Skagit lines. 

During my spell working for Orvis, I took a few “learn how to fly fish” courses there and also a few fly tying courses too. That in a way, was my first taste of guiding. I enjoyed learning new skills in the outdoors. 

Early Season guiding on the River Tay for spring salmon

You meet the strangest folk

Whilst working in Orvis Edinburgh, I met Stewart Collingswood from Alba Game Fishing Limited. We got on well, and struck up a friendship. We also fished together a few times, and he once asked me if I ever considered doing some part time guiding. 

I started guiding part time with Alba, to see what it was like and I really enjoyed the experience. I was working full time in retail, and guiding for Alba game fishing on my days off. Having the experience of doing both jobs side by side, cemented my desire to give guiding a try. I felt like I needed to be outdoors again and really enjoyed the days as I was given the opportunity to guide for Alba Game Fishing. 

A full time position as a guide – a new opportunity

In the September after Covid, an opportunity came along and I was offered a full position as a guide with Alba. I was a bit sceptical at first because I wasn’t sure if there was enough work for me. I felt like it was a bit of a gamble. 

Now when I look back at this. I realise that was a very good move and it was good to move away from retail and work in the outdoors. 

I really enjoy seeing the clients using my flies, learning new skills, look after them and keeping them safe and make sure they have enjoyable experience.

The challenges of being a guide

There have been many challenges I have overcome when Guiding. Time is critical, and punctuality and being organised are vital to the job.   When it comes to time, I’ve worked hard to be as punctual as possible. Working out how long a journey to a fishing venue takes, then adding in extra, in case of road snags.

Also allowing time to set up rods, so when the guest arrives, it saves them time and hassle.  By doing this, you feel more relaxed in your job. You might have to get up an hour earlier, to arrive an hour before the guests arrive. 

sea fishing, knockinaam, galloway, Turnberry, Glenapp castle, boat fishing, fishing, fishing trips, fly fishing, pollack, fishing guide
The perks, Cuillin saltwater fishing in Galloway

The river is in spate, what do we do?

The River is in spate – what to do now?

There are many challenges. None more so than when the rivers are flooded. You need to quickly come up with an alternative plan to still give your clients the best experience out on the water. 

I sometimes watch the online river levels like a hawk during the night, planning ahead for any change in conditions. On those occasions, when the river is unfishable we can sometimes shift to another river, still water fishery or reschedule. 

Keep calm and carry on fishing

The good thing about this job as it has built up my confidence. I now make my own decisions and take control of the day. It can get challenging, especially when a client is not enjoying an experience. The best thing is to remain calm, and find out what the client is looking for, to change the day around. It is not easy hooking fish for everyone, especially when you get novices. However with care, patience and persistence, we usually do well.

A lot of the rivers in Scotland, have wild fish and wild fish can be spooked easily. It;’s worth starting the day with a few lessons. Educating guests to stay quiet when climbing into the water. The aim not to spook fish.

Highlights of guiding in 2022 in Scotland

I had a father and son out  on the River Tay. The river was quite high that day, so they had to fish off the bank. Wading in flooded water is never a safe option.

The story behind this fishing trip was quite special as the Son was a recovering cancer patient. The cancer charity has paid for him to go out  Salmon Fishing with his dad. I got the Son casting in no time at all and they both were using fly rods at the time. The fly swung around close to the bank, then locked tight. He ended up catching the salmon off the banking. I remember his Dad saying that was amazing. The Charity was called “Dreams come true” Ut certainly did for them.

Cuillin with a fibre glass cast from the Tweed – Thank you Ronnie Glass

Once I was Guiding for American guest, who was himself a fishing guide in the States. This made me a little nervous. I felt a little bit of pressure on this job. I picked the client up from Gleneagles and when I turned up there, I was surprised to see another Alba guide John who was also doing a pick up at Gleneagles.

We both laughed and said what are you doing here? John’s reply was I was going to ask you the same question? We both had separate jobs from the same hotel. I picked up the client and I drove him to a beautiful that river runs through Glen Lyon . 

I looked off the bridge and seen the water was starting to colour up a little bit. I set him up with a streamer, not long after starting, he said he had a couple of follows. We moved down river and to some faster flowing water where I changed his tactics and give him a Vision Nymphmaniac Euronymph Rod . 

First trout on a Euronymph set up for the guest

He had never used this set up before, I showed him how to cast flies and also follow the indicator. He then cast in the pool where I said, there might be a fish sitting and connected with a beautiful trout which he used the photo I took on his website. 

After fishing the pool we moved back up to where he had started. I said to him the river is now really changing colour, so I got him to fish the streamer again. I noticed there was a fish rising near some overhanging trees along the bank, but not up enough times for a dry fly. I then got him to cross the bridge and fish the streamer on that bank near the overhanging trees, and right at the tail end of the pool. He ended up landing five trout on the streamer. What a day he had.

I also remember taking out a mother and a son for a trout fishing experience on my home water. The water conditions were very low and I was a bit worried how my fish for my clients. I walked up to a pool that I have fished numerous times and had good success in there. 

I started one of the clients with the dry dropper method, and let the son fish that method as I could see he was a better caster. I then got the mother into the pool and I decided to put on a couple of spiders for her to swing, as I noticed she couldn’t cast quite as far. 

A Grayling Masterskills course for Rory Kennedy

Didn’t take long till they both caught fish. They went up and down the same pool so many times and still caught fresh throughout the day. Was amazing to see how many fish were actually in that pool. 

Later on that day near the end of the afternoon the rain poured down and we all ended up hiding under a tree. At the end of the day, they thanked me, for making this on wonderful experience. They said they really enjoyed their day and it was good fun. I loved to hear that feedback, and it made me happy that I had made a memory for them.

Highlights of working as a fishing guide

There has been a few things that has been really enjoyable about this job and here are some of the things that I think make this job great. I really enjoy meeting clients from all over the world, and then helping them to make memories of their experiences. 

I get to travel to new locations and every day is different, some of the scenery and landscapes you come across can be really amazing. You get a chance to see new rivers all over Scotland, and in hidden and private location sometimes too. I really enjoy meeting some of the Gillies on different beats of the river, and also working with other guides in the team. 

I have enjoyed hearing clients say that they have never caught certain fish before like the grayling. And sometimes hear them say that is the biggest grayling they have caught too. I really enjoy seeing clients catch the Atlantic salmon and for me that is the most valuable fish species on the list. 

I have enjoyed getting some more time off at weekends with this job, so I can spend time with my partner which I didn’t get in my old retail job.

fly tying, trout flies, fishing guide,
Tying flies in the evening for tomorrows gig

There is also some parts that I might not enjoy as much. I find during the summer it can get tiring, when having to get up early and coming home late. A 13 to 14 hour days can be standard, with all the travelling included on the day. I feel like you do lose your evening when you get back, and there is not much time to tie flies, or spend time with your partner.

I also find if you don’t sleep well the night before and then having to get up early , I can find it hard to function, especially when it is 5 am or 6 am in the morning. I suppose I have to balance this with the understanding that between November and March, there is less pressure and a lot of extra time off, a lot of time to sleep, and relax, and between the two it balances out.

Leaky Waders, broken rods, all in a days work

There is nothing worse when you’re out on the water and gear fails on the day. Definitely when the rod breaks or waders leak. I’ve learned to take plenty of spare gear with you.

It’s challenging when the fish are not cooperating and you can see the clients morale drop. This is when you draw on your experience and keep trying new methods and experimenting. Having confidence in my own fly patterns is key, and believing in the techniques. 

There are jobs, where the clients are challenging and have expectations that are not aligned with reality. My skill has been to learn how to manage this, and to communicate with the guests, and perhaps change direction and offer something else, if things are not working out. 

After all these challenges and experiences working full time for Alba Game Fishing, I’m excited to see what the future brings for me and looking forward to this new season ahead. I have definitely made the right career path, and I am certainly not looking back.

Cuillin Rae is a full time fly fishing guide with Alba Game Fishing Ltd and current member of the Scotland Fly Fishing Team.

Category: News

River Tweed, Tay, Dee, Spey Permit prices

December 12, 2022 //  by Stewart Collingswood

Permit prices on all Scottish salmon river vary in prices, month by month. The pricing is set by likelihood of catching salmon. This in turn is determined by previous catch returns, for various weeks of the season.

In Scotland, if you own the land next to the river, then you usually own the fishing rights. If your property has river frontage, then you might own the fishing rights on one or both banks. These fishing rights are defined according to the title deeds of your property. In some instances, the fishing is sold off as a separate entity, and it can managed by a third party.

Salmon fishing permits can range from £50-£70 per day for less expensive beats, up to £450 per day on an expensive stretch of the river. Sporting estates are keen to sell salmon fishing as one-week let. If you were to book a week on the river, generally, but not always, you will be offered the same week next year in perpetuity. In addition, estates are keen to sell fishing and accommodation as a package.

On top of permit price, then you may wish to employ a fishing guide in Scotland. This can drastically improve your chances of catching. Keep you safe and make the day more rewarding. Most beats have a resident ghillie. See below.

What’s the difference between a ghillie and fishing guide?

River Tay fishing permit prices
The elusive salmon, how much do permits cost?

Most beats have a resident Ghillie. As well as being an expert on their stretch of water (beat) The ghillie will dictate the rotation of rods, so anglers all get a fair crack at the best spots.

The ghillie knows his stretch of water inside out. He will understand the tactics and strategy to increase your likelihood of catching. The Ghillie will also look after the upkeep and maintenance of the beat, the river banks, vermin and work with bailiffs to keep an eye on poachers.

So where does a guide fit in with all of this? The work of the ghillie is invaluable however he must spread himself over the various guests on the beat. This can work well, if guests know what they are doing and stay safe. In my 18 years experience, more novice anglers need careful watching.

Safety when wading in rivers

I remember some guests from London fishing in September on the Tweed. They had all been told exactly where to fish, what to do and how deep to wade. One chap decided to do things his way and started wading too deep. He got caught in a strong current, and didn’t realise what he was wading on was a narrow spit of gravel, with deep shelve either side. Luckily he survived the ordeal, but it took some arduous and heart stopping wading back upstream, before heading for the shore. He could have drowned. The guide had only gone 100 years upstream to check another guest, and that was when it nearly went wrong.

So first and foremost, having a guide on your shoulder all day will keep you safe. In addition, most ghillies will not spend a while day helping you learn to cast. It would be similar to going for a meal and expecting he chef to spend all day teaching you to cook.

Don’t get me wrong, there are some very good ghillies, that are brilliant spey casters and will give guests tips and assistance. But if you are looking to make the most of a day and really focus on one to one learning, then a full day with a guide, will deliver more than a short spell with a ghillie. The ghillie is a busy man, and has other guests to deal with.

Can you do a float trip fishing in Scotland?

If you are from the USA, keep in mind, you cannot book float trip fishing on Scottish Rivers. Salmon, Trout and Grayling fishing is either by wading, or fished from a boat. There is a method of boat fishing, that resembles float fishing in Scotland, called Harling. This method of fishing is effective on bigger rivers, and either flies or spinning lures. Kynoch killers, Rapallas or Vision 110 lures are trailed behind the boat. The boat slowly covers all the lies, sweeping downstream, back and across.

River Tweed fishing permit prices
Salmon Fishing on the Upper River Tweed in Autumn – A good value permit

Why do salmon fishing permit prices vary?

Salmon fishing permits are similarly priced to tickets at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships. You can buy a ticket for a first round game in the outer court, or a ticket for the mens final on Centre Court. The pricing matrix on tennis is set by the likelihood of witnessing a champion or a star player. Your chances of landing an Atlantic salmons by previous Catch returns and the quality of the beat.

Where can you find the best value salmon fishing in Scotland?

Are you looking for reasonably priced salmon fishing? Then here are some tips to steer you in the right direction. The upper River Tweed in Autumn offers great value and if the conditions are high, sport can be exceptional. Over the last few years, warmer weather patterns, have changed the migration of salmon. The Autumn Run is not as prolific, and aiming to fish the upper stretches in August and September.

It’s worth keeping an eye on the river levels. When the river settles back after a spate, this can be an effective time to target salmon. The pools are likely to contain fresh fish, and they are likely to be sparky and more eager to take. The upper Tweed and the River Whiteadder are worth considering in these conditions.

Salmon fishing permit prices Scotland
Autumn Atlantic Salmon caught after a spate

Category: News

Salmon Flies – Zeros to Hero’s

April 13, 2022 //  by Stewart Collingswood


Everyone has an opinion, when it comes to choosing the best salmon fly. I’ve seen the most dog eared twisted and gnarled flies catch fish. Anglers lovingly grooming some tatty charred remains – Ben Gunn castaway that looks as though it has been fired out of a cannon.

Desperately trying to get it back into shape so it can repeat that sublime magic trick. Hooking a salmon. 

Lord March, Lady Caroline, River Spey, Classic Fly, Salmon Fishing
Lord March and Lady Caroline classic salmon Flies

Choosing the right Salmon Flies in Scotland


Under-dressed, overdressed, too big, too small. Too heavy, too light, too long too short. Wrong materials, old patterns, new patterns. Hitched, un-hitched, rapala knot, single turle, double turle, lucky and unlucky. Slow movement, fast movement.

And all these observations every time you open your fly box. Your poor brain processing speed is like the wheel of death, buffering your live stream. If you are like me then picking out a winner is a tough gig. I catch so few salmon that experimentation is a high-risk occupation. So, I tend to go for flies that have done the business. The fish with an element of confidence ploy.

Variety is the spice of life..right?


The shear amount of salmon fly patterns should give you a clue. Books so thick that you could use them to stand on to change a light bulb, full of variants and variations. Potbellied pig, red Francis, cascade, atomic cascade, turbo stoats’ tail, pig Francis, cascading pig.

Who knows. Not me. Right place? Right time? Maybe. 


Most of us rotate the squad like Pep Guardiola on a European night. Most of our big guns get a run out during a session. The squad is punctuated by some new signing hot prospect. A hot shot that has rewritten the record books on the continent. A hot shot recommended by the scouts on a distant forum or caught your eye on Ebay. Another must have sure thing that will muster a fish like a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat.

Tried and tested salmon flies, or experiment with new patterns?

These new signings don’t have long to make an impact. Alan Shearer is in your fly box, is nearly back to full fitness and he wants his place back. With each empty cast you remind yourself of Shearers glory days. Not long now until you bring the new lad off and put on the tried and tested war horse.

Stoats Tail (The Alan Shearer of the fly box)


My Alan Shearer is a street fighting Stoats Tail that looks like it’s been chewed by an escalator. Size twelve hook, tatty black hackle, silver wrapping now flapping with a hint of a clipped yellow stump. I think I may have found it in a tree. Those type of found flies are my favourites. Lost by an unlucky angler, and found by a lucky one. Or so I would like to imagine.

I start and finish every session with it. Now most of the time I use it on the dropper with a lightly dressed Willie Gunn on point. Are they better than anything else in the box? Who knows. Certainly not me. But when you do manage to perform the magic trick and actually hook an Atlantic Salmon. The fly that cracks the code is one that stays in the memory every time the box is opened. 

Terminal Chancer – James Gilbraith (author and fisherman)

This short piece written by James Gilbraith, author of two excellent fishing books. Terminal Chancer and Hooked on Hope.

Category: News

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to page 3
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 9
  • Go to Next Page »

Footer

Alba Fishing Logo

Packages

  • Salmon Fishing Scotland
  • Saltwater Fly Fishing – Sea Fishing Trips in Scotland
  • Trout Fishing in Scotland
  • Pike Angling
  • Corporate Fishing
  • Bespoke Luxury Vacations in Scotland

Explore

  • Corporate Fishing
  • Fishing Accommodation

Social

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Alba Game Fishing Copyright © 2023