Prestigious North Esk salmon and sea trout fishing with exclusive lodge
Just three miles from the sea, and over two miles in length, Canterland Fishings on the North Esk sees runs of fresh fish off nearly every tide throughout the season. The beat marches with Gallery Fishings upstream, and Morphie Fishings Downstream. Intersected by the main rail link viaduct and the Marykirk Bridge on the A937, the beat is recognised by its architecture, and a variety of different pools which range from slow to swift, narrow to wide, and shallow to very deep. Amongst the 15 named pools of Canterland, well known pools like the Gauge, Logie, Bridge and Island offer anglers no shortage of likely opportunities, and define Canterland as one of the most exciting beats to fish on the North Esk.
Equipment
The ghillie recommends fly rods of up to 13ft in the spring, regularly fishing single-handed and switch fly rods through the summer and autumn months. Floating and hover lines work all year round with and without sink tips, however a skagit line and MOW tips on the single hander can be a great option for fishing a sunray or a heavier cone into the deeper runs.
Spinning is permitted at the discretion of the ghillie in higher water on the double bank sections, however the minimum height permissable is 10″ on the Logie gauge on the single bank sections shared with Craigo on the far bank. Single hook only for spinners.
Occasionally, there is a chance of a salmon on upstream bugging techniques reserved to those who know how. Bring every fly you own, and your sea trout gear too from May through August.
“When you’re fishing in The Gauge pool and you see that pod of fish running up towards you, you know you’re about to have some fun.”
Fishing the beat
Fishing is mostly from the true left (North) bank, however there is also double-bank fishing on the Island and Long Bank pools, and additionally at 1pm every 24hrs there is an on/off rotation with Gallery Fishings (the upstream beat), to fish the Dam Pool.
The Gauge pool at the bottom of the beat offers double bank fishing from the ‘Den of Morphie’ burn downstream to the march with Morphie Fishings.
The beat and fishing is divided by the two private access roads. The upper and middle of the beat is accessible along the river by foot and vehicle from the lodge and well appointed hut. The lower section of the beat includes the Logie and Gauge pools. It is a short drive (less than 1 mile) downstream from the lodge along a single track road to the access road and parking on the river bank.
There is a range of easy and tricky pools to wade. Some on-the-bank fishing pools offer access and great fishing to most abilities and ages.
Discover Canterland
Canterland Fishings
A937, Marykirk
Laurencekirk
AB30 1XL
Meet your Ghillie
Stuart Paton
Stuart Paton is your full time ghillie on Canterland Fishings. He is a gentle, considerate and knowledgeable local guide who invests all of his time in making the river better and helping his anglers appreciate it. A fisherman at heart, he enjoys watching new anglers react to Canterland’s stunning pools, guiding new and regular anglers onto fish, and also employing best conservation practices.
Stuart is well liked up and down the river, and this relationship with other ghillies means there is a good understanding of what is happening on the river at any given time to pass onto his anglers. His year round collaborative smolt shepherding practices are recognised and appreciated.
One thing Stuart is particularly good at, is understanding when an angler wishes to have a guide at their side and a bit of direction, or to be left to appreciate the river alone with just the odd visit to net your fish.
Information
River Levels
The river level for Canterland Fishings is best found on the Logie Mill gauge, North Esk.
Luxury lodge
The magnificent Canterland Lodge is set 100m back from the fishing hut on the left bank, just a stroll from the fishing.
Recently renovated and beautifully appointed, the large cottage-style semi-detached building with 5 bedrooms sleeps up to 10 people. (2 ensuite doubles, 1 ensuite twin, and 2 twins).
The spacious open-plan living area is ideal for entertaining your party or just thawing out on the big sofas next to the wood burner. The patio area and BBQ are fully enjoyed under the fantastic sunsets of the big Angus skies. A heated boot/utility room, and underfloor heating throughout the lodge, takes comfort to the next level. Fire wood, wifi, linen and towels are all provided. You may wish to bring non-angling friends and family to stay with you at Canterland lodge. There is secure storage for your rods overnight, kennels and plenty of parking.
Top Tips
- Position yourself in the best pools on the high tides, and expect running fish, fish your fly quickly.
- Fish early to late, especially in the summer months by arrangement with the ghillie.
- In Summer, having a more sociable lunch rather than dinner, can help get more anglers on the river at the optimum time in the evening.
- The ghillie will put you on to the fish, it’s up to you to hook them. So bring your A-game.
- Even in lower conditions, surprisingly heavy and large flies work on the North Esk. Try cone-headed feeler tube flies through to tiny micro flies.
- Sea trout fishing can be exceptional. Between May and August, make a point of venturing out on a nice balmy evening to Logie, Gauge and Long Bank.
“Canterland could be the best sea trout fishing on the North Esk, if people fished for them. There are some seriously good sea trout in here.”
Questions?
Is the beat exclusive to us?
Yes if you book the beat exclusively for all 5 rods.
Will there be anglers on the far bank?
The North Esk is mostly made up of single bank beats, however there are sections of Canterland that are double bank fishing. The opposite bank is predominantly Craigo Fishings which have 4 rods. There is plenty of water and there is rarely a time where opposition anglers are seen, and a very courteous relationship exists between the two fisheries. Always start above anglers on the far bank, and employ a time-honored and traditional rule of one cast, one step.
What facilities are in the hut?
There is a wood burning stove, two gas hobs, tea and coffee making facilities, a dining table and sofas.
Is there a loo available?
Those staying at the lodge overnight have access to toilet facilities.
Can I take fishing without the lodge?
Yes – day rods do not have access to the lodge, and there are options to book consecutive day rods without Canterland Lodge accommodation.
Can I bring my family and friends to stay at the lodge with my fishing party?
Yes, you are encouraged to. The lodge is perfectly set up for entertaining, or just as a good base to relax and explore the surroundings.
Can I bring my dogs?
Yes, however be wary of surrounding livestock. Dogs are permitted in the lodge in the living room and utility room only, and to be kept off of the furniture. Strictly no dogs in the bedrooms. 3 external dog kennels are provided – please clean the kennels after use.
How do I get there?
The rendezvous point for fishing is at the Canterland Fishing hut. This is found by heading to Marykirk (near Montrose) and taking the small road left off the A937 at the SE end of the village. 400m on your right there is a small well kept track heading down to Canterland Lodge. Pass immediately by the lodge over a very narrow bridge and you will see the fishing hut downstream.
What is the vehicle access like?
All cars can be used on the beat. There are some lumpy parts to the tracks up and down the beat especially after any flood events. There is a hardcored access road and car park for the lower end of the beat.
Is there wifi?
Wifi is provided in Canterland Lodge for residents.
Are there any shops locally?
There are plenty of shops within a short drive of the beat and lodge, ranging from supermarkets to farm shops. Takeaways and cafes/restaurants are also highly recommended.
What are the local surroundings like?
Marykirk is a small and quiet farming hamlet just upstream from Canterland Lodge. There is a pub/restaurant at the Marykirk Hotel within walking distance from the lodge and beat. The landscape is typically ‘Angus’ (the region) with large arable tatty fields and open skies. Montrose is the biggest town locally and the beach is well worth a visit with friends and young ones.
Availability & booking
Day rods
Day rods are made available for anglers. A maximum of 5 rods on the beat at any one time. Availability is ever changing. Day rods have access to the hut complete with wood burner, tea and coffee facilities and a gas hob. Arrangement can be made if anglers wish to start earlier than 8:30am, however this would have to be considerate to any other anglers for the day and may be refused for fairness.
Long stay with accommodation
Canterland Lodge and the fishing can be booked together for weekly and half weekly stays. The lodge has 5 bedrooms sleeping up to 10 people in two ensuite doubles, one ensuite twin, and two further twin rooms with a separate bathroom. The lodge is fitted out very comfortably, and to the highest standard, with everything required including a complete kitchen with utensils, linen and towels. The lodge is located on the beat so there is no driving required. Occupation of the lodge after 4pm Sunday to 10am Wednesday (3 nights), or 4pm Wednesday to 10am Sunday(4 nights) on day of arrival. Week long bookings are available Sunday 4pm to Sunday 10am. Booking options are included below.
Salmon & Sea Trout Season is 16th February to 31st October (there is no Sunday fishing for sea trout or salmon).
To book lodge accommodation please contact us.
Recent photos from the ghillie
Get in touch
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