The Southesk river is known for its salmon and sea trout and Kinnaird has three beats on the river Southesk, the Upper, Middle and Lower with five miles of double-bank fishing to suit varying abilities and budgets, starting from 1 mile below Brechin and stretching to the Montrose basin. The Southesk was known for its spring salmon runs but in recent years there has been a more even distribution of catches and there are sea trout to be caught in the summer months.
The river is an attractive ten-minute walk from the castle and on the Upper Beat the fishing hut is a haven for fishermen and guests who just want to soak up the atmosphere, so it is ideal for a mixed party with some who are less keen on catching fish. There is a rod-box at the entrance to the Macduff Tower and a large storage area in the Barony Apartment.
The season on the Southesk river runs from 16th February – 31st October and fishing can be booked either through the website especially if you would like to combine with the apartment or on Fishpal.com to see what is free.
The Upper Beat has 11 named pools from Kinnaird Dyke to the Boat Pool below the footbridge, this stretch of river with banks covered with wild flowers is renowned for its spring fishing below the salmon ladder.
The fishing hut, attached to the Fishers Cottage, is as roomy and homely as you could wish to find with arm chairs, a large table and a decent log fire – a welcome addition during those spring weeks – hot and cold running water and a WC.
The Middle Beat hosts seven named pools from the “Willows” to “Haughs Rough”. Steady improvements to the beat over the years by way of croys and bank work has improved catches dramatically over the last few years – especially in the Autumn. The cosy fishing hut, sits in an elevated position, overlooking the river on a picturesque corner.
The Lower Beat and Powmouth also offer good value alternatives for daily rods.