Speycaster, led by renowned fishing guide Ian Neale, has announced limited availability for spring salmon fishing on the prestigious Meads of St. John beat at Darnaway Estate. Two exceptional weeks remain available for the 2026 spring season: March 30th through April 4th and April 6th through 11th.
The Meads of St. John beat sits directly opposite the celebrated Altyre Estate on the River Findhorn, offering exceptional spring salmon fishing for two rods during what many consider the river's most productive season. Spring fishing on the Findhorn has built a legendary reputation among serious salmon anglers, with early-season fish known for their size, fighting spirit, and silver brilliance fresh from the Atlantic.
"Spring on the River Findhorn represents Scottish salmon fishing at its absolute finest," said Ian Neale, owner of Speycaster and head guide. "The Meads of St. John is a stunning beat with exceptional holding pools, and these late March through early April weeks coincide perfectly with when spring fish are running strong through the Darnaway section."
The River Findhorn rises in the Monadhliath mountains and flows through some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery before reaching Findhorn Bay. The river's spring season benefits from steady snowmelt from highland corries, which typically maintains ideal fishing levels well into May. This natural hydrology, combined with the river's dramatic gorges and classic salmon pools, creates exceptional conditions for spring fishing.
Darnaway Estate's lower river beats have historically produced outstanding spring catches, with fish often held back temporarily by spring water flows before moving through the system. The beats below Sluie Falls, including the Meads of St. John, benefit from this natural fish-holding pattern during March and April.
Speycaster offers complete guided salmon fishing experiences on the River Findhorn, with Ian Neale bringing over 40 years of professional guiding experience to each outing. His credentials include seven years as head guide on Russia's Ponoi River, widely regarded as the world's premier Atlantic salmon fishery, and extensive international guiding experience in Tierra del Fuego.
"These beats require proficient Spey casting ability to fish them properly," Neale explained. "For anglers who've mastered the technique or are looking to refine their skills, this is an exceptional opportunity to fish some of Scotland's most beautiful and productive spring water."
The available weeks represent the final spring fishing opportunities on this particular beat for the 2026 season. Anglers interested in securing these prime dates are encouraged to contact Speycaster directly, as spring fishing slots on the River Findhorn typically book well in advance.
Accommodation can be arranged through Speycaster at nearby Bradbush House, providing convenient access to the Darnaway beats and other River Findhorn fishing locations. The company also offers comprehensive trip planning assistance, including equipment recommendations, fly selection guidance, and detailed river condition updates leading up to each booking.
For anglers seeking one of Scotland's most authentic spring salmon fishing experiences, these remaining weeks at Meads of St. John represent a rare opportunity to fish during peak season on water that consistently produces memorable catches and showcases the River Findhorn's renowned natural beauty.
Full salmon fishing availability information and booking inquiries can be directed to Speycaster through their website or by contacting Ian Neale directly.
About Speycaster: Speycaster, based in Forres, Moray, Scotland, specializes in guided salmon fishing experiences, Spey casting tuition, and fishing holidays on Scotland's premier salmon rivers. Owner and head guide Ian Neale brings over 40 years of professional guiding experience, including international credentials from the Ponoi River in Russia and Rio Grande in Tierra del Fuego. A published author and television personality, Neale is recognized as one of Scotland's leading salmon fishing experts, offering personalized instruction and access to exclusive private beats on the Rivers Findhorn, Spey, and Dee.
