Fly Fishing Scotland – Atlantic Salmon

Species:  Atlantic Salmon
Season:  April – October
Capacity:  2-3 anglers
Cost: Variable between rivers and beats

The River Spey is located in the Highlands of Scotland, is the country’s second longest and also the fastest flowing river in Great Britain falling over ten feet per mile. It is among one of the finest classic fly-fishing rivers with strong roots in the origination of the sport.

Spey casting was developed on the River Spey due to the dense vegetation on its banks and the erratic winds. Although declining in number elsewhere in Europe, thousands of mature fish return to the Spey each year to spawn after time spent at sea. The water’s fast and relatively even flow, and its lack of pollution and obstructions, mean salmon can spawn throughout most of its length as well as in many tributaries. The Spey supports one of Scotland’s most important salmon fisheries and attracts anglers from all over the world prepared to try their luck along the beats, or stretches, of the river.

The Findhorn rises in the Monadhliath Mountains, (the Grey Mountain Range), and flows in a north easterly direction for nearly seventy miles entering the Moray Firth at Findhorn Bay just to the north of Forres. It drains an area of some three hundred forty six square miles. For much of its course it runs almost parallel to its larger neighbor, the River Spey.

Ian and Barbara Neale are your hosts at Bradbush on Darnaway, just outside Forres. They look forward to welcoming you to their home, which they run as a traditional and comfortable fishing lodge close to the banks of the River Findhorn and Ian is your guide during your stay as well and has access to some of the finest beats on the surrounding rivers.

Bradbush is an attractive country house built in the late 1800’s and is of traditional sandstone construction. The house has recently been fully refurbished and tastefully decorated throughout with a fine blend of antique and modern furniture with a traditional Scottish touch. Bradbush offers comfortable accommodation with three spacious double/twin bedrooms and each with their own respective bathrooms/shower rooms.

It is recommended that you bring as much of your own equipment as possible but in case something does get left behind, there is a wonderful fly shop in town if you find you were remiss in bringing any gear. They are also very helpful with renting bulky equipment such as waders and flotation harnesses. Floatation harnesses are required for the Upper Castle Grant Beat.

The weather is generally between 43 and 65 degrees and it will probably rain more often than not.

Overall, the Spey is one of the most unpolluted rivers in Britain and its status as a protected area will help to maintain water quality for along time to come. The waters and wildlife of the Spey, set against the mountains, attract many people. Visitors bring added vitality adding to the river’s web of life. The Spey is an area worthy of special conservation. A noble fish, the Atlantic salmon holds a special place in most people’s affections, whether for its indomitable energy or its navigational skills.