This beat is in a most attractive setting (hence the name Fairnilee) where the river forms the boundary between the policies of three beautiful estates. It is the best beat on the Upper Tweed and the only one to use a boat, although it is only required in very high water.
The beat's fishing offers a great variety of river, from the fast water of the Gullet to the calmer waters of the Yair Boat Pool.
There is a wide variety of pools with easy access to most but the top beat has some challenging wading and, with trees and high banks close behind the main pools, spey casting capability is necessary.
There are three-and-a-half miles of single bank fishing and around 20 named pools - nobody can quite agree as to the exact number! Being above the junction with the Ettrick water, the beat is only at its best in October and November, although fish are caught by skilled enthusiasts during the earlier months.
An extensive rod room and meeting place has been provided by converting an old mill adjacent to the river. It has a small kitchen attached, with a heater, kettle, small cooker and deep freeze, as well as modern washing facilities. In addition, there is a nice riverside fishing hut further down the river, which also has good access for cars.
On the Fairnilee stretch, the maximum number of rods is 5 until the Mid September, with 6 rods thereafter when higher water gives more fishing room.
There is a part time ghillie provided. This beat is let on a weekly or daily basis from Mid September, but before then you can fish on the same day each week for the whole period from 1st February to 4th September. Please telephone the office for details.
For a comprehensive list of places to stay whilst in the Borders visit the Where To Stay section on FishTweed.
