The South Wark beat is situated approximately 2 miles up-stream of Coldstream Bridge on the English side of the Tweed between Cornhill and Carham.

The beat has a big fishing history and has been a prolific rod fishery over the last hundred or so years. On 15th February 1935 Lady (Joan) Joicey landed 28 salmon (having hooked 42 in all) from the Jefferies, Dub and Annaside pools. For many years this remained a UK record for the most salmon caught on rod and line in one day. Average five year catches have increased significantly over the last few years and an all-time record of 663 salmon and grilse were landed during 2012. During 3013 a total of 431 salmon and grilse were landed. 

The beat performs at all river heights but particularly well at medium and high water levels. Automatic readings of the exact water height from the Wark gauge are updated hourly and shown on the beat’s webpage.

Tenants have the use of the 19th Century Boat House at the foot of Wark Castle. It has heating and includes a comfortable sitting/dining room, changing room, small kitchen (with fridge) and 2 WCs.

Typically tenants take whole or half weeks. Last year June and July were fished (part of the time) with considerable success. Obviously good water levels helped but salmon and grilse have been appearing at Wark earlier over the last few years. Fishing is offered direct to tenants and no commission or other charges are payable.

beat facts

• 5 year average of 497 salmon and grilse
• 2.25 miles of right bank fishing
• 9 named pools
• Maximum 3 rods in autumn and 2 during the spring and summer
• 4 Boats
• 2 Boatmen spring, 1 Boatman summer and 3 Boatman after mid August
• Electronic water heights updated hourly and displayed on-line
• Boat House available with fish larder, deep freeze and rod storage
• Provision for Wheely Boat access
• Vehicle access to all pools

Information courtesy of www.tweedbeats.com