A Two-Day Celebration of Fly-Tying, Fishing, Conservation, and the Iconic River Tweed
Scottish Borders, 1st February 2025 – The River Tweed Commission and Tweed Foundation are thrilled to announce the inaugural River Tweed Fly-Tying Fair, taking place on 1st and 2nd February 2025 at the historic Kelso Town Hall. This two-day event will celebrate the opening of the River Tweed salmon fishing season and unite fishing enthusiasts, conservationists, and the local community in a vibrant celebration of tradition and craft.
A Gathering of Craft and Conservation
The Fly-Tying Festival promises to be a showcase of skill, creativity, and conservation efforts, featuring:
-
Fly Tyers Row: Meet renowned fly tyers from the UK, Ireland, and Europe, including Ken Middlemist, the last Hardy fly dresser, Sacha Putz from Germany, and John Schets from the Netherlands. Local boatman Gavin Brown, creator of the Junction Shrimp, and Iain Wilson, known for the Posh Tosh, along with many more share their expertise on Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd February.
-
Talks and Q&A Sessions: Engage with conservationists and experts from the Tweed Foundation, FishPal, and Trout and Salmon Magazine.
-
Film Screenings: Attend the premiere of Tweedwood – A Modern Ghillie’s Mission, an inspiring look at the life and legacy of a modern ghillie.
-
Learn to Tie: Try your hand at fly-tying with guidance from TweedStart Ambassadors, inspiring anglers young and old.
-
Fly-Tying Competitions: Showcase your skills, including Best Salmon Fly and Best Trout Fly.
- Exhibitors: The GameKeepers Welfare Trust, Scottish Gamekeepers, Fin and Game, Stuart Hardy Classic Flies, Partridge of Redditch, Upcycled Waders, Fast Flies, Trout & Salmon Magazine, Borders Fly Fishing, and angling clubs/associations from across the borders.
Connecting Community and Conservation
The event highlights the cultural and ecological significance of the River Tweed, fostering a deeper connection between the local community and its cherished traditions. Proceeds and donations from the two days will support the education and conservation work of the Tweed Foundation, ensuring the preservation of the River Tweed for future generations.
Event Details
-
Dates: 1st and 2nd February 2025
-
Time: Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm and Sunday 10am-4pm.
-
Location: Kelso Town Hall, The Square, Kelso, TD5 7HF
-
What3Words: ///tummy.cosmic.liked
-
Entry: Entry is by donation, with a suggested contribution of £10 per person. Accompanied children under 16 enter free. Your generosity helps protect the River Tweed, support conservation work, and inspire future generations through education programs.
Join Us in Supporting the Tweed Foundation
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the River Tweed and its rich traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or curious about the art of fly-tying, the fair offers something for everyone.
Get Involved
For more information or to participate, contact: Anne Woodcock
Email: anne@tweedfoundation.org.uk
Phone: 07540 834852
Website: www.rivertweed.org.uk
About the Tweed Foundation
The Tweed Foundation is a registered charity dedicated to the conservation and sustainable management of the River Tweed. Through education, research, and community engagement, the foundation works tirelessly to protect this vital natural resource and its biodiversity.
Charity No. SC011055
