The River Nairn rises in headstreams, on the slopes of Carn Ghriogair in the Monadhliath Mountains and flows north-eastwards through Strathnairn for 38 miles, to empty into the Moray Firth at Nairn.
The fishings are over some 4 beats and there are 34 named pools which include some excellent fly water.
Methods are mainly fly but worming and spinning are allowed depending on level markers.
Given favourable conditions, there is every chance of hooking a fish from opening day onwards. For a relatively small river, it can be very productive, both in terms of quality and size of fish with salmon up to 20 lbs and sea trout up to 6 lbs caught each season. Fishing after a rise in water levels, the visitor can easily account for 2 -3 fish in a day.
Often referred to as “The Little Gem” the Nairn can provide fantastic sport for local anglers and visitors alike. It is still a Grade 1 river due to its prolific catches and its annual smolt trapping catches are some of the best in Scotland.
Visitors are made very welcome by the local anglers who are helpful in assisting them when they take a permit to fish this fine wee river.
Several big floods have occurred during the close season, and some bank damage has occurred, but the pools are in good order for the new season.
Season permits are available now and some outwith the Nairn area annual permits are sometimes available.
Work parties will be out in February clearing paths and fallen trees in preparation for the opening of the river.
The season runs from 11th February until 7 th October.
Why you need to fish here
The Association has 6 miles of fishing offering arguably some of the best salmon and sea trout association water in Scotland. There are lots of nice fly fishing pools and have recently repaired some of their damaged croys. Also their stiles have all been replaced to enable better access for anglers.
