BBC Countryfile to spotlight River Tweed’s salmon fishing heritage

The Countryfile team visited the River Tweed on the eve of the 2026 salmon fishing season, capturing the atmosphere, heritage and science that underpin one of the United Kingdom’s most renowned salmon rivers.

Presenters Matt Baker and Sammi Kinghorn spent time on the river exploring both its fishing traditions and the conservation work that supports it.

The team visited Kelso and Hawick, where they spoke with local boatmen and a traditional rod builder, gaining insight into the river’s enduring angling heritage.

They also visited St Cuthbert’s Church in Norham and learned about the Blessing of the Nets tradition.

They also met James Hunt, Senior Biologist at the Tweed Foundation, at the Galashiels Fish Counter, where discussion focused on scientific monitoring and conservation work across the catchment.

The programme also includes Jane Gibson, Riverwoods Project Officer, who explained how carefully planned riverside tree planting can provide shade and help moderate water temperatures during hot summers.

Jamie Stewart, Head of the Tweed Foundation and Clerk to the River Tweed Commission, said: “Countryfile’s visit provides an important opportunity to highlight the work taking place on the River Tweed — from practical river management to long-term scientific monitoring.

“The Tweed remains one of the most closely studied salmon rivers in the United Kingdom.

"Long-term datasets from programmes such as the Gala Fish Counter enable us to take informed, evidence-led decisions at a time when Atlantic salmon are facing sustained pressures across their range.

“Robust science underpins responsible management, and that approach is central to the Tweed’s continued resilience.”

The programme is scheduled to air on BBC One on Sunday, March 1, at 6pm.