The River Tweed, winding its way through the heart of the Scottish Borders and Northern England, is one of the most famous and productive salmon fishing rivers in the UK. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to cast your line in some of the most scenic waters in Scotland, the areas around Kelso and Berwick-upon-Tweed offer prime fishing opportunities. From tranquil pools to fast-flowing beats, there’s something for every fisherman along this stunning river.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best spots for fishing the River Tweed near Kelso and Berwick-upon-Tweed, as well as provide some essential tips for making the most of your fishing experience in this renowned river.
Why Fish the River Tweed?
The River Tweed is not only one of the UK’s most beautiful rivers, but it is also home to a wealth of fish species, including salmon, trout, and grayling. The river stretches over 97 miles from the Southern Uplands of Scotland to the North Sea at Berwick-upon-Tweed in England.
The Tweed is particularly famous for its salmon fishing and attracts anglers from around the world during the season, which runs from February to November. It is regarded as one of the best salmon rivers in the UK, boasting both spring and autumn runs. For those interested in trout fishing, the Tweed is also a prime destination for brown trout and grayling, particularly in the upper reaches around Kelso.
Best Fishing Spots Near Kelso and Berwick-upon-Tweed
1. Kelso – The Junction of the Teviot and Tweed
Location: Kelso
Best For: Salmon, Trout
Fishing Type: Fly Fishing, Spinning
One of the most iconic spots for fishing on the River Tweed is the junction of the River Teviot and River Tweed near Kelso. Here, the two rivers meet, creating ideal conditions for salmon fishing. The confluence area offers some of the most productive beats for both spring and autumn salmon runs, with anglers often reporting success here.
Fly fishing enthusiasts love this area, as the water is clear, and the pools are deep, allowing for perfect fly casting. You’ll find salmon and brown trout in abundance, making it a perfect place for both beginners and experienced anglers. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, the nearby Berrymoss Beat is a great option for salmon and trout.
If you’re planning to fish here, be sure to check for availability with the local fishing beats such as Kelso Angling Club or Tweed Fisheries, which offer a range of permits for private and public beats.
For more information on fishing in Kelso, take a look at Tweed Fisheries.
2. Floors Castle Beat – Kelso
Location: Floors Castle, Kelso
Best For: Salmon, Trout
Fishing Type: Fly Fishing
Another excellent spot near Kelso is the Floors Castle Beat. Located on the Floors Estate, this picturesque fishing location is renowned for its beauty and its fishing opportunities. The beat offers exclusive fly fishing rights for those seeking both salmon and trout. It’s a premium location for fly anglers, with pools that vary in depth, perfect for catching salmon, especially during the early season.
The estate provides access to some prime fishing grounds along the Tweed, with easy access for those staying at nearby accommodations in Kelso. Make sure to book your fishing rights well in advance, as the spots can be highly sought after during the peak season.
For details on fishing at Floors Castle, you can visit the official Floors Castle website.
3. The Till and the Tweed – Coldstream
Location: Coldstream
Best For: Salmon, Trout
Fishing Type: Fly Fishing
The Coldstream area, located on the Scottish side of the Tweed, is well known for its productive fishing waters, particularly in the stretch where the River Till meets the Tweed. This part of the river is famous for its salmon fishing, especially in spring and autumn, when the salmon runs are at their peak.
If you’re looking for a spot that’s slightly off the beaten track, the Till and Tweed junction offers an excellent opportunity to land both salmon and trout. The area has both deep pools and faster, more challenging currents, making it a great location for fly fishermen.
Fishing permits for the Coldstream beats can be obtained through local guides or the Coldstream Angling Club.
4. Berwick-upon-Tweed – The Lower Tweed
Location: Berwick-upon-Tweed
Best For: Salmon, Grayling
Fishing Type: Fly Fishing, Spinning
As the River Tweed flows toward the sea, it reaches the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, where fishing opportunities continue right to the mouth of the river. The lower reaches of the Tweed around Berwick offer excellent salmon fishing, particularly during the autumn run. The lower Tweed also offers some of the best fishing for grayling in the region, with quieter beats perfect for this species.
The area around Berwick-upon-Tweed is known for its rugged beauty, with cliffs and estuarine habitats providing ideal conditions for fishing. Many fishing beats here are suitable for both beginners and more advanced anglers looking to test their skills.
For more details on the fishing permits available in Berwick-upon-Tweed, check out Tweed Angling.
5. The River Tweed Estuary – Spittal
Location: Spittal, Berwick-upon-Tweed
Best For: Salmon, Sea Trout
Fishing Type: Fly Fishing, Sea Fishing
As the River Tweed approaches the North Sea, the Tweed Estuary offers unique opportunities for both salmon and sea trout fishing. The estuary is a perfect place for those who want to experience sea fishing as well as river fishing. The waters here are often productive for sea trout during the summer months, with anglers casting both fly and spinning tackle in the estuary’s rich waters.
The Spittal area offers some of the most accessible spots for estuary fishing, and it is an excellent location for those looking for a more varied fishing experience.
Fishing Tips for the River Tweed
Permits: Always ensure you have the appropriate fishing permit before you cast your line. Many areas along the Tweed require permits, and fishing is tightly regulated.
Best Time to Fish: The River Tweed sees the most action during the spring and autumn months, as these are the peak times for salmon runs. Sea trout fishing is best during summer, particularly in the estuarine waters near Berwick.
Local Guides: If you’re new to fishing in the Tweed, consider hiring a local fishing guide. They can help you navigate the river, offer local tips, and even provide equipment.
Catch and Release: To protect the fish populations, consider practicing catch and release, especially for the salmon.
Fishing Gear: If you’re fly fishing, make sure you’re using the appropriate rod and tackle for the River Tweed. The river is often fast-flowing, so heavier lines and larger flies are often needed.
Stay Near River Tweed Fishing Spots
After a rewarding day fishing along the River Tweed, having a peaceful place to unwind makes all the difference. Our self-catering cottages near Kelso and Coldstream provide a comfortable countryside base for anglers visiting the Scottish Borders.
Whether you are planning a short fishing break or a longer stay, our cottages offer easy access to local fishing locations, scenic countryside, and nearby market towns.
Explore our accommodation options to find the perfect base for your Scottish Borders fishing holiday.
Conclusion: Experience World-Class Fishing on the River Tweed
Whether you’re drawn to the salmon runs of Kelso, the peaceful grayling waters of Berwick-upon-Tweed, or the estuarine richness of the Tweed Estuary, the River Tweed offers unparalleled fishing opportunities. The variety of beats, combined with the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding Scottish Borders, makes the Tweed one of the UK’s premier fishing destinations.
With the right permits, a bit of patience, and perhaps a local guide, you’ll soon be reeling in your catch while soaking in the tranquil beauty of one of the most scenic rivers in the country.