The Urr is a delightful river lined with mature broadleaved trees that is situated between the Kirkcudbrightshire Dee and the River Nith which enters the Solway near Kippford. The river rises a short distance below Loch Urr and like the other Galloway rivers is dependent upon a good fall of rain to provide the best fishing conditions.

The idyllic scenery that surrounds the river provides a pleasant prelude to the East Stewartry National Scenic Area (NSA) which encompasses the mouth of the Urr. The Colvend Coast is part of the NSA and boasts a magnificent coastline with spectacular cliffs which are home to a variety of sea birds. The beauty of the area did not go unnoticed by the Victorians, who were such regular visitors that it was known as the 'Scottish Riviera' for a time! Nowadays, it is still a very popular holiday destination and there are many places to stay whether you are interested in camping, caravanning, self catering or staying in a hotel.

Management of the rivers

The river is managed by the River Urr District Salmon Fishery Board (UDSFB) with scientific advice provided by the Galloway Fisheries Trust (GFT). The GFT works on the Solway rivers situated on the Scottish side of the Firth - the Border Esk, Annan, Urr, Kirkcudbrightshire Dee, Fleet, Cree, Bladnoch and Luce. The Urr has been a core member of the GFT since early 2006 but was previously an affiliate member since 1999. The GFT's aim is to restore and maintain aquatic biodiversity in Galloway by means of practical, responsible and sustainable approaches to land, water and fishery management, based on sound science, for the benefit of the community as a whole. For further information on the Galloway Fisheries Trust, please click here.

Dalbeattie Angling Association water on the lower River Urr

Fishing on the Urr

Although smaller than its neighbours, the Urr is still 35 miles long and offers pleasant fishing in truly pastoral surroundings. The river is one of only three Scottish rivers that is open until the end of November and is renowned for its large 'greyback' salmon, which are caught in the back end. Fresh run fish are caught right to the end of the season.

The river's sea trout population still provides good sport from April onwards and they can be found even in the uppermost reaches. Most of the sea trout are in the 1-3lb range but each year larger fish (up to 8lb) can be caught. Wild brown trout are also caught in the river.

The river has a good mixture of fly water and holding pools. Fishing methods permitted are dependent upon water height, with fly being preferable unless the water is high.

Further information links

When & where to fish the Urr