Lunch
Don't forget to bring your lunch and a flask. 8 hours salmon fishing on an empty stomach will test the endurance of even the hardiest of angler - and remember you're in Scotland - the fresh air makes for big appetites! Lunch can be provided by S. Patterson on request with all dietary requirements catered for.

Waders
When salmon fishing, waders are a must even in low water as you will often need to cross the water in several places - And if its wet, they are handy to sit on wet grass.

And make sure your waders are not leaking! You're unlikely to receive much sympathy if you arrive with a pair of leaky waders that have hung in the garage for a year in the hope that the "few holes" from last year have miraculously grown over and healed themselves!

Aquisure will fix them in no time - dark room, torch inside the waders and look outside - all is revelled and bingo! A small dab of Aquisure,  leave overnight and no more leak! Happy days.

Tackle
Your tackle speaks volumes about you - and good tackle will increase your chances of catching (and landing) a salmon. Your rod needs to be around 15 feet with a line that's balanced to your rod

 New nylon is a must. 15lb is a safe bet, but 12lb is better in the summer. And don't forget that nylon weakens with age, it is also not expensive - Don't loose the fish of a lifetime due to poor nylon, you simply will never forgive yourself!

Make sure you have a good selection of flies, not a few old beaten up things in a box that have been there since last year! If you need advice on flies and fly selection, Kevin Patterson, the ghillie, will be more than happy to advise and even supply you with a range of flies proven on the water if booked in advance

Check your hooks are new and sharp - again, it's often the most inexpensive items that can make the difference between triumph or disaster.

If you are spinning, a few good ball bearing swivels will give you a trouble free day from "birds nest syndrome" after your nylon has been spun inside out.

A pair of snips are great and come in a Zinger so you don't lose them - A thousand and one uses, and a must for any angler.

Suntan lotion
Suntan lotion is an absolute must. I've seen people go home looking like traffic lights on even an overcast day. Please don't get caught out - Remember, it's 8hrs "double dose" with the water reflecting it back to you.

Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a great idea if you are learning as they are provide essential eye protection from the fly when having casting troubles.

Tape
Rods need taped up when fishing, although the ghillie will generally have a roll in his pocket, it's best to be prepared - that new 3 piece rod doesn't quite have the same feel when it's in 4 pieces! Tape it up.

Clothing
Dress for the weather - and be prepared!

And finally, remember we are here to help you enjoy every minute of your fishing trip to Tweedswood. If there's anything you're not sure about, please don't hesitate to contact us before your arrival