Question 1

How does the week work?

Accepted Answer

The beats are let by the week and rotate across six days of fishing (Monday to Saturday), allowing anglers to enjoy two days on each beat.

The fly fishing season commences at the end of April and closes at the end of September.

Question 2

What can I expect on the Findhorn?

Accepted Answer

The Findhorn is a Highland spate river, so water levels can rise quickly after rain upstream - often the very thing that stirs salmon into running and makes them more active. In lower summer water, fish can still show in the pools and reward a patient, quiet approach.

Question 3

What rod should I bring?

Accepted Answer

The Findhorn is a mid-size river and is well suited to 12–13ft switch or double-handed rods (typically 7–8 weight). Single-handed rods can also be effective, though some of the wider pools may require additional reach and control.

Question 4

What are the wading conditions like?

Accepted Answer

The riverbed is predominantly stone and boulder, with occasional sandy sections. In normal conditions, deep or extended wading is rarely necessary, aside from a few harder-to-reach lies.

Question 5

Which flies work well on the Findhorn?

Accepted Answer

Proven patterns include Willie Gunn, Alistair, Ally’s Shrimp, Cascade, Pot-bellied Pig, Stoat’s Tail, and tube flies. In low water, scale down sizes and consider lighter approaches, including a hitch fly or stripped patterns such as Collie Dog or Sunray Shadow.

Question 6

Is a ghillie available?

Accepted Answer

An experienced River Findhorn ghillie can be arranged to provide tuition or support during your stay. Please enquire when booking to discuss availability.

Question 7

01 — What is the minimum stay?

Accepted Answer

Our self-catering cottages are available for a minimum of three nights during low season. In high season and during the salmon fishing season, some properties may require a seven-night stay.

Question 8

02 — How do I book?

Accepted Answer

You can book directly via our online reservation system. If you would prefer to check availability first, please complete our enquiry form or email us at bookings@cawdor.com (mailto:bookings@cawdor.com)and we’ll be pleased to assist.

Question 9

03 — When is my booking confirmed?

Accepted Answer

Submitting a booking online generates an automated summary email. Your booking becomes confirmed once we issue a written confirmation invoice. At that point, a contract is formed.

Question 10

04 — What deposit is required?

Accepted Answer

For bookings made more than six weeks in advance, a 50% deposit is required at the time of booking, with the balance due six weeks before arrival. Bookings made within six weeks of arrival require full payment at the time of booking.

Question 11

05 — What are the check-in and departure times?

Accepted Answer

Check-in is from 4pm on the day of arrival, and departure is by 10am on the final day of your stay.

Question 12

06 — Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

Some of our cottages are dog-friendly. Please let us know at the time of booking if you wish to bring a dog so we can advise accordingly.

Question 13

07 — Is a 4WD vehicle necessary?

Accepted Answer

In winter months, and for certain rural cottages or fishing guests, a 4WD vehicle is recommended.

Question 14

08 — What happens if I need to cancel?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations must be made in writing. We will always endeavour to re-let the property and, if successful, will refund monies paid minus a 10% administration fee. Full details are outlined in our Terms and Conditions.

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