Murthly 1

Location

Middle Tay near Dunkeld

Summary

Five year average: 180 salmon/grilse
and 20 sea trout
2 beats, both 1 mile of double bank, fished on alternate days
1 ghillie, 1 boat and 1 hut per beat
Maximum number rods: 5
Price range: From £40 per rod/day

Description

Murthly Beat 1 is one of the best fly fishing waters on the Tay. There are two separate beats the Upper Beat and the Lower Beat. In 2006 the Lower Beat is fished on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and the Upper Beat on Tuesdays Thursdays and Saturdays. Both the Upper and Lower Beats mainly consist of swiftly flowing runs and pools which all have a good draw on them, ideal for the fly. Fly fishing is the preferred method of fishing unless the water is high.

These beats fish well throughout the season. Many spring salmon seem to make their first stop in the Murthly area and so a fresh springer can always be expected. Then in the summer the grilse fishing can be first rate. There is usually a good head of fresh grilse and conditions are perfect for the fly. Then given a lift in the water big catches of back end fish can then be made in the autumn.

The beat is set among stunning woodland scenery with impressive stands of mature Douglas Fir and other species giving the whole beat a very grand feel. There is one ghillie on the beat and one boat but much of the river can easily and safely be fished by wading, especially in low water. There is also a comfortable hut on each beat with full facilities.