Where to Fish

The majority of springers are caught on the lower and middle beats. Once the weather warms in the spring, fish can be taken around Auldgirth and Thornhill. However, the upper beats really come into their own in late spring or early summer.

Grilse begin to run in June and move through the system quickly. The peak run is in July and August which, given reasonable angling conditions, can result in catches throughout the river. Sea trout, this species can provide interesting night fishing throughout the river during the early summer.

The autumn fish spread throughout the system given favourable weather conditions. One of the most productive tributaries is the River Cairn and this provides a variety of fishing from the late spring onwards. It is also a good brown trout river.

There are many fisheries across the river system (see the full list in column 2) and those who use this site can be seen on the Fishery descriptions page with links to each fishery's web page

As well as Salmon and Sea Trout, some Nith fisheries offer Grayling fishing over the winter months. Again, check the Grayling page for more details.

Close to the Nith, some excellent Loch fishing for Rainbow Trout can be found. This is currently offered for online booking through FishNith by the Drumlanrig Castle Fishings on seven beautiful lochs but it is hoped to add more in due course.

Coarse fishing, too, can be found nearby and at the moment two ponds offer online booking.

Whatever your fishing preference, Nithsdale offers a wealth of stunning and varied river beats and lochs to choose from giving excellent fishing opportunities to the discerning angler.