First of all the staff at the Ulbster Arms Hotel and the river Thurso would like to wish everyone a happy new year and tight lines for 2026.

The new year started with significant  snowfall across the highlands and the banks of the Thurso was no exception with well over a foot of snow falling in 48 hours. The biggest problem was the wind which caused drifting making many roads impassable and indeed the county of Caithness was cut of for 36 hours by road.

As we approach the opening day a thaw has begun. The hope is for a gradual  temperature increase as a rapid thaw could lead to excessively  high river levels.

The 2026 opening ceremony will be held on Monday 12th January at 10am, from there the first cast will be made on the Comlifoot pool a short walk from the Ulbster Arms Hotel.

Tight lines for the 2026 season