Midlothian offers 9 mapped fishing waters on PiscaMaps, including 9 rivers. Species found across Midlothian's waters include Brown trout, Eel, Sea trout, Minnow, Chub, Roach, Dace, Perch.
There is no rod licence requirement in Scotland — instead, access rights under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 grant anglers the right to fish most rivers and still waters, providing they act responsibly. Most fisheries are managed through riparian owners, angling clubs or estate beats.
Unlike England and Wales, there is no rod licence requirement in Scotland — however, most waters require permission from the landowner or angling club.
Click a river for species information, close season dates, access notes and a location map.
17 species recorded across Midlothian's rivers:
| Brown trout | 5 waters |
| Eel | 4 waters |
| Sea trout | 4 waters |
| Minnow | 4 waters |
| Chub | 3 waters |
| Roach | 3 waters |
| Dace | 3 waters |
| Perch | 3 waters |
| Trout | 2 waters |
| Stoneloach | 2 waters |
| Stone loach | 2 waters |
| Common Carp | 2 waters |
Carp are a popular target across Midlothian's waters — always use a landing net and unhooking mat and return fish promptly.
Barbel fishing is well regarded in Midlothian's rivers, particularly through summer and autumn when water temperatures are higher.
Brown trout are present in Midlothian's rivers — many are catch-and-release only and may be subject to game fishing close seasons (typically 1 October to 14 March).
Salmon are present in some of Midlothian's rivers. A migratory salmonid licence is required in addition to the standard rod licence.
View all rivers, stillwaters and canals across Midlothian on the interactive map. Filter by species, water type and access.