Tackle advice
Tackle for Salmon
A 9 to 15ft rod will be required depending on location and time of year. Most fish are caught on sink tip lines, with some being taken on neutral density or slow sink in deeper pools. If you encounter really low water then a floating line will suffice.
Leader material is on average 12lb breaking strain, with weights down to 8lb for summer grilse if low water persists and up to 15lb in autumn spates.
Tackle for Trout
A 9ft to 11ft single-handed (or butt extension) rod capable of throwing a #6 or #7 line is the most popular choice.
Most anglers would use a floating line with easily detachable 3-6ft sink tips. Occasionally in some of the really deep pools some night time fishers will use a sunk line, but the vast majority of sea trout will fall to a floater or sink tip whether caught by day or night.
Leader strengths are on average 6lb although some anglers may opt for 8lb breaking strain at night. Occasionally anglers will try fishing rough streams in low water with 4lb line, but this is tempting fate.
Other equipment and advice
Landing nets must be of a knotless mesh variety. Waders with studded soles are the most popular and a wading stick makes good sense. However, beats and safety conditions vary and you are advised to check before wading. A life jacket is always advisable.
Midges may be troublesome during summer, particularly on warm damp evenings and some net protection or suitable repellent may make life more comfortable.
Please note that many beats restrict permitted methods to certain water heights and some prohibit particular methods. Please check the terms of your permit and local bylaws before fishing.
If you require more detailed information on tackle, tactics or even where to stay, it is often best to contact the local ghillie as they will be able to offer specific advice depending on the time of fishing.
Hiring/buying Tackle
Visiting and local anglers are able to purchase tackle from local tackle shops and mail order outlets. Those marked with an asterisk (*) in the following list of suggestions also hire out equipment.