Argrennan Estate is situated on a picturesque stretch of the River Dee in the Parish of Tongland, a short distance from the vibrant artist town of Kirkcudbright. Being at the very bottom of the river, this beat often boasts the best annual salmon catches for the river. Being under the influence of the Galloway Hydro Scheme, the beat is normally most productive for salmon during and on the fall from water transfer between Glenlochar Barrage and Tongland Reservoir.
There are four named pools on the beat (see map) in which most fish are caught depending on the height of water. Access to the fishing can be via an existing right of pedestrian and vehicular passage across the section of track (see map). There is adequate parking for three vehicles on the most northerly entrance.
Whilst very few spring salmon enter the river in April and May (movements of migratory fish are recorded through Tongland fish pass by a Vaki Riverwatcher fish counter), salmon migrate in greatest abundance during the summer months of July and August and again, prior to spawning, in October.
Wading deep into the river channel should be avoided or at least practiced with precaution and should only be done after familiarising yourself with the channel variations experienced during times of water transfer from Lock Ken/Glenlochar Barrage upstream. Hydro operations downstream at Tongland (which require water to be fed into Tongland Reservoir) can be frequent and periodic throughout the daytime during times of high rainfall, or for a single short spell once daily in times of water shortage.
Permitted methods include fishing the fly and spinning.
All salmon caught must be returned.
Suggested flies and spinners: Willie Gun, Munroe Killer, Stoats tail, Silver Toby and the Flying C
Accommodation: You may wish to book accommodation within the estate and Argrennan Lodge is a beautiful period building that sits at the main entrance of Argrennan Estate. This self-cater property sleeps four people over two bedrooms, has secure parking and a private rear garden.
