The South of Scotland offers a host of welcoming venues where newcomers and families can come to discover the joys of trout fishing. These fisheries combine well stocked waters, friendly services and scenic surroundings to make for the perfect introduction to angling. Simply turn up, hire a rod and start casting! 

Finding beginner and family friendly fishing spots 

If you’re new to trout fishing, here are a few things to look for when choosing a fishery: 

  • Rod and tackle hire 
    Check that rods, reels, tackle and landing nets are available to hire so you can fish without bringing your own equipment. 
  • Regular stocking 
    Well-managed fisheries stock fish consistently during the season, improving the chances of a successful first visit. 
  • On-site facilities 
    Some venues offer cafés, toilets, shelters or picnic areas. Easy and safe bank access is particularly useful for families with children. 
  • Flexible access 
    Many fisheries accept walk-in visitors, although tuition or equipment hire may need to be booked in advance. 

Featured Family Friendly Facilities 

Kailzie Fisheries (nr Peebles, Scottish Borders) 

Set within the Estate’s peaceful grounds, Kailzie Fishery offers both stillwater and river fishing in the beauty of the Tweed Valley. Families and seasoned anglers alike can enjoy trout, salmon and sea trout fishing, with equipment hire and ghillie support available.

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Glenquicken Farm Trout Fishery (nr Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries & Galloway) 

Fish for rainbow trout on Glenquicken Farm Trout Fishery’s 4.5-acre lochan. Rods, reels and nets are available to hire, and tuition can be arranged in advance. The peaceful location and well stocked water make Glenquicken Farm a great option for new or less-experienced anglers. 

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Greenhill Coarse & Trout Fishery (nr Dalbeattie, Dumfries and Galloway) 

Greenhill, set in a beautiful valley, offers separate pools for trout and coarse fishing. Anglers can fish by fly or bait for trout, while other pools contain species such as carp and tench. Tackle hire is available, and the bait fishing pool is often chosen by beginners and younger anglers. 

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Green Frog Fishery (Moffat, Dumfries & Galloway) 

Green Frog Fishery has two lochans: one designated for fly fishing on a catch-and-release basis, and another for bait fishing where fish may be retained. Rod hire is available, and casual visitors are welcome without prior booking unless needing equipment. The layout and facilities make it accessible for newcomers and families with children. 

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Loch Lochenbreck (Dumfries & Galloway) 

Loch Lochenbreck is managed by Gatehouse and Kirkcudbright Angling Association, offers boat fishing, with six boats available. Recent seasons have recorded an average catch rate of just over two fish per rod, with typical retained fish weighing around 2lb. 

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Loch Whineyon (Dumfries & Galloway) 

Loch Whineyon is a wild brown trout loch managed by Gatehouse and Kirkcudbright Angling Association. The loch is stocked with well sized fish, with two boats available from which to cast a line.  

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Tips for a family fishing day

  • Check ahead 
    If visiting with children or as a group, confirm opening times and whether tuition or equipment hire needs to be booked. 
  • Dress for conditions 
    Wear suitable outdoor clothing, take care on wet or uneven banks, and monitor weather changes. 
  • Start simple 
    Bait fishing can offer quicker results for beginners, while fly fishing introduces technique and casting skills. 
  • Plan around your visit 
    Many fisheries are located near walking routes, cafés or local attractions, allowing you to combine fishing with other activities.