What fish can I catch in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire?

Depending on the river, loch or fishery and the time of year, anglers can target Atlantic salmon, sea trout, wild brown trout, rainbow trout and blue trout.

When is the best time to go fishing in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire?

Fishing can be enjoyed throughout the year, although river fishing seasons vary depending on the species and location. Spring and autumn are particularly popular for salmon fishing, while many lochs and stocked fisheries can be enjoyed year-round. On the River Dee, the salmon season runs from 1 February to 15 October below Aboyne Bridge, and until 30 September above Aboyne Bridge. Early spring and late summer to early autumn are often considered some of the most productive periods for wild Atlantic salmon fishing.

Can I fish on the River Dee on Sundays?

Nobody is allowed to fish on the River Dee on Sundays, in accordance with Scottish law.

Do I need my own equipment for a fishing holiday?

Not necessarily, many guided experiences provide everything needed, making it easy for visitors travelling from elsewhere in the UK or overseas.

What is a fishing beat?

A beat is a managed section of river where fishing takes place. Each beat has its own pools, access arrangements and fishing conditions.

Is salmon fishing catch-and-release only?

Many rivers, including the River Dee, operate catch-and-release policies to help protect fish stocks and support conservation.

Are fishing holidays suitable for non-anglers?

Many fishing locations are set within scenic landscapes close to castles, walking routes, whisky experiences and visitor attractions, making them ideal for mixed-interest holidays.

Can I fish anywhere on the rivers?

No, River fishing is managed and access is controlled by fisheries, proprietors or angling associations. Visitors should always book in advance and fish only where permission has been granted.

Fishing in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

Discover world-class salmon rivers, peaceful lochs and stocked fisheries across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, with fishing experiences for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.

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Cast a line in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

Scotland’s North-east is home to some of the finest fishing in the country, with iconic salmon rivers, peaceful lochs and stocked fisheries set against spectacular landscapes.

From casting wild Atlantic salmon on the world-famous River Dee to enjoying a relaxing day on a stocked trout fishery, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offers experiences for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.

Whether you’re trying fly fishing for the first time, booking a guided trip or planning a dedicated angling holiday, there’s plenty to discover on the water.

Rivers

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is home to some of Scotland’s most celebrated river fisheries, offering outstanding opportunities for salmon, sea trout and wild brown trout fishing.

The region’s rivers include the River Dee, River Don, River Ythan, River Deveron, River North Esk and tributaries such as the Bogie and Isla rivers, each with its own character, fishing conditions and seasonal highlights.

From the cold, clean waters of the Dee flowing through Royal Deeside to the productive trout waters of the Don and the renowned salmon rivers of the Deveron and North Esk, anglers can experience varied fishing across landscapes stretching from the Cairngorms to the coast.

Image: Cambus O'May

Lochs and stocked fisheries

For a more relaxed day on the water, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire also offers lochs and stocked fisheries set in peaceful surroundings.

Unlike river fishing, many stillwater fisheries can be enjoyed throughout the year and are not restricted by salmon seasons, making them a flexible option for visitors.

The region offers opportunities to fish for rainbow trout and blue trout, with popular locations including Loch of Loirston, Millpond Fishery and other fisheries across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Whether you’re introducing someone to fishing, looking for an easier-going day by the water or enjoying time with family and friends, stillwaters provide a welcoming alternative to river fishing.

New to fly fishing?

Trying salmon fly fishing for the first time? Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are fantastic places to begin.

Many providers offer guided experiences where everything is organised for you, including permits, equipment, tuition, and local knowledge. It’s an easy way to learn the basics, understand the river and experience Scottish salmon fishing without needing specialist equipment.

Guided experiences are particularly popular with visitors wanting to travel light, families and those completely new to the sport.

Visitors can learn casting techniques, river etiquette and best-practice catch-and-release methods while enjoying some of Scotland’s most scenic fishing locations.

Fly Fishing with TwinPeakes

Experience the beauty of fishing on the River Dee through this film captured by our friends at TwinPeakes Fly Fishing. Inspired to get out on the water yourself? TwinPeakes Fly Fishing offers guided experiences, casting tuition and fly fishing packages for beginners and experienced anglers alike.

Explore TwinPeakes

Experienced anglers

For experienced fly fishers, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer some of Scotland’s most respected salmon rivers.

Fishing is generally organised into beats, with access managed by fisheries and proprietors. Each beat has its own character, pools, and seasonal strengths, so planning is recommended.

Experienced anglers often work with guides, Ghillies or fisheries to choose the most suitable beats depending on season, water conditions and target species.

The region’s rivers offer everything from secluded upper reaches and classic trout water to productive salmon pools closer to the coast.

Plan your fishing trip

Looking for permits, guidance, local information or help planning your fishing experience? A range of organisations across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire can help visitors understand local conditions, fishing seasons, permits, beats and conservation guidance.

Useful resources include river trusts, fisheries, angling associations and booking platforms to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time on the water.

Useful resources:

River Dee Trust – information on the River Dee, conservation guidance and catch-and-release best practice.
River Don Trust – guidance and information on fishing opportunities and the River Don catchment.
River Deveron, Bogie & Isla Rivers Charitable Trust – information on the Deveron system and associated rivers.
FishPal – a popular platform for booking fishing, permits and beats across Scotland.
Aberdeen & District Angling Association (ADAA) – visitor permits and information for fisheries including the Don and Ythan.

Things to know before you fish

Before planning your trip, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

Salmon fishing seasons vary by river and location
Salmon fishing is not permitted on Sundays in Scotland
Many rivers operate strict catch-and-release policies
River fishing often requires permits and advance booking
Equipment hire is not always available unless arranged in advance
Some rivers are fly-only fisheries

Visitors should always check local regulations and fishery guidance before travelling.

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