Here at Glen Tanar a Ghillie is multi-talented as their role changes to stalkers during the winter months to help control the deer population. During the fishing season our Ghillies are usually out of sight down by the River with guests. So what is it like to be a Ghillie? We stole a few moments of Craig MacDonald’s time to find out.
When did you start fishing? And why did you start in the first place?
I have been fishing as long as I can remember. Both my grandad’s fished so I pretty much grew up with a fishing rod in my hand. I grew up fishing on mainly the Dee and the Don in Aberdeenshire and enjoyed many family holidays somewhere near a river where we could fish. I started because I was introduced to it at a very young age and it is a sport which my family have enjoyed and I guess I am carrying on that tradition. I am also lucky enough to now be able to fish as part of my job as a ghillie on the River Dee and also help to introduce others to a sport which I love.
Why do you enjoy fishing?
I love being outdoors first and foremost – being out on the River is a nice way to spend the time as it is so peaceful and the scenery and setting is truly stunning. Some people may think that fishing can involve a lot of waiting around but I love it because when you get a fish it is incredibly exciting. I also enjoy sharing my knowledge and helping others learn and become good at the sport – seeing them improve and watching their excitement is very rewarding.
Why is the River Dee so great for fishing?
The Dee is known as one of the “big four” in terms of salmon fishing rivers in Scotland and historically it was the premier spring river in Scotland. It is renowned as having some of the best fly fishing water in the world. It is also an incredibly scenic river and the surrounding area is steeped in history. I hear a lot of guests that come here say that this is one of their favourite places to visit which keeps them coming back year on year.