There are three main species of fish normally caught in the North Esk River and the surrounding tributaries: Salmon, Grilse, and Sea Trout. In addition, the river Northesk is noted for specimen Brown Trout and there is a famous population of Artic Char in Loch Lee. Access to the beautiful glen and places to park while fishing are very convenient.

General Information

The River and its tributaries should always be fished in a sporting manner - only with fly. There are certain times however, such as spate conditions, when artificial bait is permitted. It should also be taken to note that fishing with shrimp/prawns was banned by Ministerial Order in 1998. A few tenants have elected to adopt a "one fish per rod per day" catch limit in the interest of conservation. The Estate commends this approach, but has not set limits at this time. The Estate believes that the "one fish per rod per day" rule, or fishing with barbless hooks, should be a matter of discretion for the individual angler.

Beat & River Information

The Burn

The Burn has several fishing beats available, and bookings can be made by contacting Mr. Andy Middlemiss, the Bursar.

Dalhousie Estate

Fishing is let from one bank only (West Bank) over the Upper and Lower Beats of the Edzell Water on the River North Esk. The Middle Beat is not included There are ten named pools. Maximum 3 Rods. The Upper Beat extends from below the Gannochy Bridge on the Fettercairn Road to the Suspension Bridge by Edzell Village. The Lower Beat runs from the tope of the Lyn Martin Pool down to the confluence of the North Esk River and West Water.

The Estate has an arrangement with the opposing Proprietors which avoids both Proprietors fishing the same beat at the same time; thus one of the beats if fished in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Details of the arrangements are given on your Permit. Unlike many Scottish rivers, the salmon run on the North Esk River has remained stable in recent years and was above average in 1998 although water conditions did not favour the Edzell Beat.

Rent (per Rod, per Week, plus VAT)

• February - £165
• March - £165
• April - £190
• May - £165
• July - £110
• August - £110
• September - £240
• October - £240

A deposit of 50% of the rent is payable on confirmation of booking and the balance not later than one month before the starting date. Day tickets will be available for unlet periods on application at the following rates per Rod, including VAT.

Rent

• February, March, & April - £35
• May, June, July, and August - £30
• September - £50
• October - £50

Permits and Returns - A Permit will be issued to each tenant on receipt of the rent, and the tenants are required to return this Permit at the end of their let, giving the number and weight of fish taken.

All bookings are handled by the Dalhousie Estates Office in Brechin.