Bemersyde

Fishing Rules

These rules apply to all fishers on Bemersyde. It is important that you read them carefully. If you have any questions do not hesitate to ask Ian Farr. Please follow his advice at all times particularly regarding your safety.

General

• Fishing must be carried out in a sportsmanlike manner and must comply with both the law and all the Tweed rules for salmon and sea trout fishing.
• Fishing is from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. although later fishing may be allowed with the consent of Ian Farr. The owner of Bemersyde Estate reserves the right to fish one house rod when conditions permit. No boats will be used between 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. when the Ghillies have their lunch.
• The river can experience sudden surges from floodwater. If you see the water level rising move to the bank immediately.
• Every fisher must properly record all fish caught by reporting to Ian Farr.
• Fishers are expected to exercise restraint in the number of salmon killed (quite apart from not being allowed to kill any salmon before 30th June).
• Foul hooked fish (i.e. not hooked in the mouth) must be returned to the river unharmed.
• If coming from fishing abroad within the last 2 weeks, all fishing kit used while abroad must be disinfected to safeguard against Gyrodactylus salaris entering the Tweed river system.
• In the interests of safety, it is recommended that all fishers wear a buoyancy aid when fishing the beat. If you require a buoyancy aid these are available in the fishing hut at your own request.
• Protective eyeglasses and a cap are also strongly recommended.
• The Country Code must be observed at all times. No fires should be lit, no litter should be left in or around the fishing hut or on the river bank.
• Any dogs must be kept under control and must not cause annoyance or interference to other fishers, or wildlife.
• No shooting of any kind is permitted.
• Cars must adhere to the existing permitted tracks and be parked to avoid obstruction.
• If possible all types of nylon should be discarded without danger to wildlife.

Boat Safety

• We advise for your safety that buoyancy aids should be worn when using the boats. Your failure to wear one is done so entirely at your own risk.
• The number of persons must not exceed the limit stated for the boat (in almost all cases this will be 2 adults only i.e. boatman plus 1). The only exception to this rule will be transferring from bank to bank.
• Your boatman is responsible for boat safety, his instructions must be followed at all times.
• Your boatman will make an assessment each day as to whether boats can be used, based on the river and weather conditions, expected deterioration, and available light.

Wading

• For your safety we advise that buoyancy aids should always be worn, regardless of the water depth. Your failure to wear one is done so entirely at your own risk.
• If wading, a wading stick is also recommended to test the water depth and conditions underfoot.
• Do not wade above hip depth, always take account of the depth and flow of the water.
• Always take Ian Farr’s advice on where and when to wade his word is final.

Fishing Hut

• Sleeping overnight in the fishing hut is not permitted.
• Please remove any litter when you are finished using the hut.
• Please wash any dishes you may have used and leave the hut in the condition you found it.
• Please report any damage, or other problems with the hut to Ian Farr.

Summary

• Please ensure any keys for boats/hut are returned to Ian Farr or left at a prearranged place if fishing out with hours.
• Adult Life Vests are available for use free of charge on request to Ian Farr on the day of fishing. Your failure to wear one is done so entirely at your own risk. They must be returned at the end of your days fishing in a similar working order to which they where issued.
• Ian Farr’s word is final, he is there to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable days fishing.