Eshiels has not been fished for many years and has only recently become available. Over the past couple of years it has only been very lightly fished. As such,catches do not reflect its true potential.
Grayling only fishing from December. Fly fishing only for grayling.
Anglers are permitted to fish for all fish species (in season).
Eshiels beat is located directly above the top boundary of Horsbrughs Castle pool and runs right up to the bottom boundary of Haystoun beat, just below Peebles, at the Old Wire Bridge Pool.
Approx 1.25 miles left bank.
The majority of the beat is tree lined so wading is necessary to access most areas. The beat is only suitable for anglers who are reasonably fit and don’t mind a bit of a walk to access the water.
There are two large pools that offer fairly easy access. The first Scots Mill is directly opposite the old mill buildings at Scots Mill Kailzie. The second Dog Craig is directly below and is a big deep pool that holds fish in all water heights. There is an other large pool (Wire Bridge Pool) that is fishable at its tail end, up at the very top boundary of the beat. It does involve a bit of a walk up past the sewerage treatment works, then clambering down a steep banking to reach it.
The bankings are left unmanaged and should only be booked by those who appreciate a more natural environment. This beat is not suitable for anyone expecting manicured paths and river banks.
For salmon fishing the beat is only really suitable for two anglers sharing, due to the majority being inaccessible due to trees.
Access to the beat is via the A720. If traveling from the North, after Peebles look out for the sign to Eshiels Community recycling centre. Just after, turn right onto the single track road signed Craiguart B&B. Or if travelling from the South, turn left just before the recycling centre. Follow the road downhill past some houses on the left. There is a field entrance on the left. Park in there but ensure the access to the field is left clear. Then on foot, go through the gate and cross the field keeping the brick wall on your right. At the end of the wall, cross the fence and climb up the banking and onto the tarred cycle track. Follow that path in a southerly direction (left) until you come to a sign for Eshiels community woodland. Take the path into the trees towards the river. Head through the trees towards the mill buildings visible on the far bank.
