Outdoor Activities

Fishing in Newcastleton

The Scottish Borders offer some of Britain's finest game fishing. From the clear waters of Liddel Water to the vast Kielder reservoir, anglers find peaceful solitude and excellent catches.

Fishing Spots All Activities

Local Fishing Waters

Pristine rivers and lochs within easy reach of Newcastleton

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Liddel Water

The main river flowing through Newcastleton, offering excellent brown trout fishing. The Liddel also sees runs of sea trout and the occasional salmon in autumn months.

  • Brown trout (March - September)
  • Sea trout (July - October)
  • Day permits available locally
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Local Burns & Tributaries

Smaller streams feeding into the Liddel provide secluded fishing for wild brown trout. Perfect for those seeking solitude and traditional fly fishing.

  • Hermitage Water
  • Tinnis Burn
  • Wild brown trout
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Kielder Water

England's largest man-made lake, just across the border. Kielder offers excellent trout fishing with boat hire available and regular stocking of rainbow and brown trout.

  • Rainbow trout (stocked)
  • Wild brown trout
  • Boat and bank fishing

Fishing Seasons & Regulations

Brown Trout Season

The brown trout season in the Scottish Borders typically runs from 15th March to 6th October. Wild brown trout are abundant in the Liddel Water system, with fish averaging 8-12 inches. Larger specimens of 2-3 pounds are caught regularly in deeper pools.

Salmon & Sea Trout

Salmon fishing on the Liddel is limited but possible, with fish running from late summer. Sea trout provide better sport, typically from July onwards when conditions allow fish to move upstream from the Solway Firth.

Permits & Access

Day permits for the Liddel Water can be purchased locally. Always carry proof of permission when fishing, as the waters are managed by local angling associations. Kielder Water requires separate permits available from the visitor centre.

Fishing Regulations

  • Rod licence required for all fishing in England (Kielder)
  • Scottish waters do not require a rod licence, but permits are needed
  • Catch and release encouraged for wild fish
  • Barbless hooks recommended
  • No fishing from 7th October to 14th March (trout)

Best Fishing Techniques

Traditional methods work best in these Border waters

Fly Fishing

The traditional and most effective method for trout in the Liddel system. March Browns, Black Spiders, and Greenwell's Glory work well. Light rods (3-4 weight) are ideal for the intimate burns.

Best for: Rivers & burns

Upstream Worm

A traditional Border technique particularly effective after rain. Using a single small worm presented naturally upstream takes trout when flies fail.

Best for: Coloured water

Loch Style

At Kielder, traditional loch-style fishing from a drifting boat is productive. Teams of wet flies covering different depths work through the trout-holding areas.

Best for: Kielder Water

Wildlife While Fishing

The riverbanks and loch shores around Newcastleton offer excellent wildlife watching opportunities while you fish. Red squirrels are common in the surrounding forests, while ospreys have returned to Kielder and are regularly seen fishing the reservoir.

Otters have made a strong recovery in the Liddel system - early morning and evening anglers may be rewarded with sightings. Dippers and grey wagtails are constant companions along the river, while herons patrol the slower pools.

The combination of wild landscapes, quality fishing, and abundant wildlife makes the Newcastleton area a special destination for the contemplative angler seeking more than just fish.

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Discover all the outdoor adventures waiting in and around Newcastleton.

Wildlife Watching Forest Walks

Plan Your Fishing Trip

Best Time to Visit

Late April through June offers the best dry fly fishing as various mayfly hatches occur. Autumn brings sea trout runs and the possibility of salmon. Kielder fishes well throughout the season, with early and late periods often producing the best results.

Accommodation

Several B&Bs and self-catering cottages in Newcastleton cater specifically to anglers, offering rod storage, drying facilities, and local knowledge. The village's location makes it an ideal base for exploring multiple waters.

Local Tackle

While bringing your own equipment is recommended, flies tied to match local hatches can be purchased in the area. Kielder visitor centre has a well-stocked tackle shop for last-minute needs.

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