The winner of the Bemersyde Trophy for the 2025 salmon fishing season has been confirmed as Ian Merrell, following the capture of an exceptional salmon on the River Tweed.
Ian landed the fish on 1 October 2025 in the Annay Pool on Cornhill Beat, under the guidance of ghillie Brendan Lough of Cornhill Fishing, who has also been recognised with the Ghillie’s Trophy. The salmon weighed 32lbs, measuring 42 inches in length with a 22-inch girth, and was caught on a black and yellow ½-inch plastic tube fly.
A lifelong Tweed angler, Ian was introduced to the river as a young boy by his father and has fished it ever since, now spending up to 60 days each season on the water. This fish represents the largest of his career, surpassing his previous best of 30½lbs caught in 1980, also on the Tweed.
Ian Merrell said: “I’ve been fortunate to fish the River Tweed for most of my life, having been introduced to it by my father when I was a boy. To land a fish like this after so many years on the river is incredibly special. The Tweed has given me countless memories, and this one will stay with me forever.”
A Strong Season for Young Anglers
Alongside this outstanding catch, the 2025 season has highlighted the importance of introducing the next generation to salmon fishing on the River Tweed.
On the Fairnilee Beat, angler Luke Gifkins brought his 13-year-old son Sam for his first experience of salmon fishing. Despite challenging conditions, both father and son achieved a memorable milestone by landing a salmon on the same day at Elm Weil, just above Yair Bridge. The moment echoed Luke’s own introduction to the river as a child, creating a powerful three-generation connection to the Tweed.
Elsewhere, 15-year-old Oliver Mountfield landed his first salmon — weighing 11lbs 2oz — from the Goats Mouth pool at Lower Makerstoun, during his first experience of salmon fishing with his father.
A River of Heritage, Stewardship and Future Generations
Reflecting on the season, Earl Haig and Countess Haig said: “The River Tweed is one of Scotland’s great natural assets, with a heritage rooted in families, communities and the landscape itself. Having both experienced the river from a young age, we understand the lasting connection that fishing creates across generations.
At a time when Atlantic salmon face increasing pressures, it is more important than ever to recognise the value of the Tweed — not only as a place of tradition, but as a living ecosystem that must be protected. Encouraging young people to engage with the river fosters respect, supports conservation, and ensures that the knowledge, skills and stewardship of the Tweed are carried forward for future generations.”
