Welcome to the Spey Ghillies Website

Profile

I have been a fanatical Salmon angler since the early age of 12, and having spent almost 40 years on various rivers throughout the World, catching well in excess of 1000 Salmon, I have gained a great deal of experience in all aspects of the sport. I was introduced to Salmon Fishing by Jock Masson, most probably the finest angler ever to have cast a fly on the River Deveron. Together in the late 70's, we spent many hours fishing on the Deveron's finest beats and I fondly remember those carefree days with great pleasure. On leaving school, and whilst waiting to join the RAF, I was very fortunate to spend a year on the Deveron's finest - Forglen beat, under the watchful eye of legendary Ghillie Jonathan Taylor. Not only did Jonathan and Jock teach me a great deal about Salmon fishing, but indeed many lessons on life in general. Both were remarkable men, excellent role models and of course, in the tradition of distinguished Salmon fishers, great raconteurs. Due to family commitments, after 7 years, I have recently moved as Ghillie of the Kinermony beat but fully intend to continue with my reports and will use my expertise in assisting other grilles on an ad-hoc basis. I will also continue to arrange fishing for visiting parties and assist with any guiding or instruction you may require. 

It is my intention through my new-look web-site to promote all aspects of fly-fishing, both on this magnificent river and further afield. As a Scottish International Fly Fisher and Ghillie, I have gained a tremendous amount of knowledge both on Stillwater, Rivers and more recently SaltWater. My aim is to pass on some of my expertise to old and new anglers alike. Please feel free to contact me on the link at the top of this page, whether it's information on tackle, casting tuition, general advice, weekly reports or whatever - you’ll get it all here. I also write the River Spey reports in the Trout & Salmon magazine, therefore I'd like to encourage you to share any interesting anecdotal tales or photos from the riverbank. Many thanks for dropping in and tight lines - Jock Royan.