Real Farm Holidays
Salmon Fishing
The Annan may not be in the “premier league” of salmon rivers, but it is not far behind and offers great value for money. Why pay thousands per week to fish on the Tweed, Tay or Spey? They are unlikely to be ten times better than the Annan. The Annan’s salmon season runs from 25th February to 15th November (inclusive), and currently around 80% of the salmon are caught in the last two months. In the 1950′s the Annan was a Spring river and a few still run in February to April, but now these must be returned alive if they are caught.
Official statistics show that the Annan’s salmon catch (in numbers) is usually in Scotland’s Top 20, with an above average weight of nearly 10+lbs. The Kirkwood beat, on the Annan, is known for big salmon. In most years we catch at least one salmon over 20lbs, sometimes several.
For salmon flies we find that shrimp, general practitioner, stoats tail, hairy mary and monro killer are successful.
Those staying in Kirkwood Cottages have priority access to the Kirkwood beat but it is advisable to book in advance or there may be no space. We only let 4 rods on Kirkwood and Anthony keeps another 2 for himself. We also have the Jardine Hall beat to rent. This is a fantastic beat about 8 miles upstream of Kirkwood. It has lovely fly water.
For advice on several other beats on the Annan where day or weekly tickets can be bought have a look at the FishAnnan website. Each beat has different advantages, disadvantages and, often, different rates and conditions.
Why not join us on one of our Salmon Schools? Fantastic fishing, first class tuition, accommodation & all your meals are included in the price!