River North Esk

Description

The North Esk (Scottish Gaelic: Easg Thuath) is a river in Angus and Aberdeenshire.  It is formed by the meeting of the Water of Mark (from Glen Mark) and the Water of Lee (from Loch Lee), and enters the North Sea four miles north of Montrose.

It forms the boundary between Angus and Aberdeenshire at certain stages in its course.  It was also noted in the 19th century as a good point for fishing.

Salmon are likely to be up past the Loups of the Burn, a series of falls about fifteen miles below Loch Lee, and into the upper beats by April. The lower river flows through a series of long holding pools, giving excellent fishing on the lower beats.

The North Esk is very much a spate river, requiring rain to give good sport especially in the summer months. The later months of September and October are usually the most prolific months as long as there is sufficient water to let the fish run the river.

Downstream of the meeting of the headwaters referred to above, the River North Esk is joined by various other tributaries. The Water of Effock enters on its right side and then the Water of Tarf enters on its left bank at Tarfside.

The West Water is a considerable right bank tributary which enters near Stracathro in Strathmore. Its upper reaches are known as the Water of Saughs. The Luther Water is the last significant tributary of the North Esk; it enters on the left bank near North Water Bridge. The Luther Water drains the Howe of the Mearns.

Picture credits- Instagram @Icarnegie1