If you are visiting North Berwick and staying at Williamstone Fram Steadings, there is much to see and do, including some excellent all year fishing options. East Lothian is a corner of Scotland offering angling diversity, with the convenience of being in close proximity to Edinburgh. It is often overlooked by tourists who flock north to the Highlands, making North Berwick, somewhat of a Hidden Gem.
Trout Fishing Near North Berwick
River Whiteadder – Salmon, Trout, Sea Trout and Grayling – (45 mins from Williamstone)
The Whiteadder is a gem of a river and possibly the best river close to North Berwick. It is a main tributary of the Tweed. In spring it is an excellent salmon river and fishes best dropping back after a spate. Fishing has improved greatly since the removal of coastal and estuary nets and removal of obstructions on the river, allowing migratory fish a clear passage in to spawning beds.
We have access to a private beat on the Whiteadder, which offers excellent fishing for all species. If the levels are not right for salmon, it’s worth targeting trout and grayling.
It’s possible to fish throughout the winter on the Whiteadder, as it has become a superb grayling river in the last few years. Winter fishing trips can be booked here.
The River Whiteadder is also an excellent venue for hosting our river fishing courses for beginners
Salmon Fishing on the River Tweed, near North Berwick
The River Tweed is less than an hour from North Berwick town centre and offers superb fishing for salmon, trout and grayling.
The Tweed salmon season peaks in October and fishing is available right through to the end of November. The River is one of Scotland’s big 4 and is a must-do if you are looking to target salmon.
Our fishing guides live and breathe the Tweed. Three of our guides live a stone’s throw from the River Tweed. They can help you understand how to read the river, the best salmon flies to use, and the best techniques to maximise your chances.
There are a number of excellent still water lochs, that offer trout fishing all year.
Coldingham Loch is a spring-fed 22-acre loch and one of the first to stock Rainbow Trout in Scotland. Our guides have been fishing this loch for over 30 years. It is located close to the stunning cliff tops at St Abbs head, giving this remarkable loch unique character and biodiversity.
Fishing is best from the boat, and the boats are large and stable enough to accommodate two anglers, with a guide in the middle. Hiring a guide is essential, they will know what patterns work and the best spots for a successful day. They will also keep you safe and provide transport from North Berwick.
Coldingham loch holds a good stock of rainbow trout, wild brown trout and blue trout. Generally, the trout respond well to surface dries, and small imitative fly patterns, like chironomids and sparsely tied nymph patterns.
Sea Fishing in Berwickshire
There are several options for saltwater fishing in and around North Berwick. The Harbour has chartered boats available for day trips to fish for Pollock, Cod, Coalfish and Mackerel. We offer saltwater fly fishing guided trips too and sport can be fantastic.
Our main fishing trips leave from the port of Eyemouth, which is about 40 minutes away and boat fishing around the coast at St Abbs head and some of the wrecks and deep channels in this area.
To book a fishing trip from Williamstone Farm Steadings, please visit Alba Game Fishing.
Our office is located very close to ‘The Barn’ and we can pick up and drop off.
We will provide, premium fishing tackle, waders and boots in all sizes, life vests, and professional guides.
Transport is in a Volvo XC90. Lunches and professional photography can be provided.