The Tweed tributaries of the Rivers Ettrick and Yarrow which run through the Duke of Buccleuch's delightful Bowhill Estate, converge only 1.5 miles upstream of the characterful Burgh of Selkirk.
The Ettrick water nestles and winds its way some 12 miles from the March pool passing through high hill ground used for stock rearing to the lower beats of the enchanting Ettrick Valley of mixed agricultural farmland and rolling scenery, where it meets the River Yarrow to form the confluence known as the Meetings Pool on the Estate's eastern boundary.
The fishery have 5 different Beats, hold a maximum of 4 rods with the exception of the smaller Beat 3 which can only accommodate 3 rods.
The water is easily covered from the banks in summer but wading may be adventurous in the Autumn.
The whole river presents an excellent opportunity for fly fishermen.
Beat 1 WINDY BROW Crosslee March to Deloraine Bridge
A long beat benefitting from double banked fishing. Wilderness fishing where catches increase with higher water levels as the season progresses.
BEAT 2 LADYLODGE Deloraine Bridge to Hyndhope Bridge
The most productive beat of all, Ladylodge is classed as one of the best beats along the river. It’s easily accessible and has good holding pools, providing idyllic fly water.
BEAT 3 NEWHOUSE Hyndhope Bridge to Ettrickbridge
Fishing permitted along a single sided bank. Wide pools which rely on high water which is usually found towards the end of the season.
BEAT 4 BROCKHILL Howfordmill to Shielshaugh Footbridge
A beat benefiting from double banked fishing. Although challenging to fish due to its fragmented pools, each pool is very good with high potential.
BEAT 5 POLICIES Shielshaugh Footbridge to Meetings
A beat benefitting from double banked fishing and short walking distances. Split into two halves from the Carterhaugh Bridge, access with vehicles is available along most of the bank.
Successful patterns on both Rivers are Stouts Tail, Silver Stouts Tail and the Ally Shrimp in sizes 8 - 12. In high coloured water conditions try a 1.5" - 2.5" orange, yellow or gold bodied fly.
For a comprehensive list of places to stay whilst in the Borders visit the Where To Stay section on FishTweed.
Why you need to fish here
The Ettrick water nestles and winds its way some 12 miles from the March pool passing through high hill ground used for stock rearing to the lower beats of the enchanting Ettrick Valley of mixed agricultural farmland and rolling scenery, where it meets the River Yarrow to form the confluence known as the Meetings Pool on the Estate's eastern boundary.
