&
07768 842569
The Legacy of the Tweed
A Unique Collaboration between Stuart Hardy and the Tweed Foundation
A different Fundraising Story - Bringing the History of the River Tweed to Life
The River Tweed Foundation has embarked on an exclusive collaboration to recreate extraordinary historical artifacts, offering discerning collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of River Tweed history. Crafted by one of the world’s foremost historical fly tiers Stuart Hardy, these exceptional pieces are more than just collectibles—they are a tribute to the river’s legendary angling heritage. This once-in-a-lifetime offering not only allows aficionados to acquire an authentic masterpiece but also supports Tweedstart, ensuring the preservation of this iconic river for generations to come.
What Makes it so Special
Uniquely Crafted Items
Stuart Hardy’s Kelson Collection is a rare and meticulously curated archive of historical fly-tying materials, classic salmon flies, and angling paraphernalia, spanning from the late 1700s to the early 20th century. This extraordinary collection includes materials once owned by some of the most influential anglers in history, preserving the artistry and heritage of traditional fly tying.
As part of an exclusive fundraising effort with the Tweed Foundation, Hardy is using select materials from this collection to create remarkable framed fly displays, blending history with craftsmanship. These one-of-a-kind pieces allow discerning collectors to own a tangible piece of angling history, while directly supporting the conservation of the legendary River Tweed.
...making a difference together.......
Funding for Tweedstart
TweedStart is the Tweed Foundation’s flagship angling initiative, designed to inspire children to engage with natural history and game angling throughout the legendary Tweed catchment. It particularly focuses on nurturing young anglers, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the art of fishing, and deepening their understanding of the river’s delicate ecosystem. By teaching essential skills, conservation ethics, and the historical significance of the Tweed, TweedStart ensures that future generations remain active stewards of the river, recognizing the vital role of habitat preservation, sustainable fishing practices, and biodiversity in maintaining a thriving salmon population and aquatic environment.
An Homage to the River Tweed
The Tweed Foundation is a charitable organisation dedicated to sustaining and enhancing fish stocks in the River Tweed. Operating under the River Tweed Commission (RTC), it leads the way in scientific, data-driven fisheries management, ensuring conservation efforts are based on research rather than speculation.
Through biological monitoring, habitat restoration, and ecological assessment, the Foundation works to protect the Tweed’s valuable fish stocks and maximise natural productivity. Its population studies, genetic research, and habitat enhancement projects create a thriving environment for wild salmon, trout, and other native species.
As climate change and human activity pose growing challenges, the Foundation’s role is more critical than ever. By combining scientific expertise with strategic conservation, it ensures the Tweed remains one of the world’s most productive salmon rivers for future generations.
The Artistry and Legacy of Stuart Hardy’s Fly Frames for TweedStart
Stuart Hardy’s fly frames, created for the TweedStart fundraiser, are far more than mere collections of fishing flies—they are masterful tributes to the heritage of the River Tweed, crafted with an unparalleled blend of historical accuracy, exquisite materials, and elite fly-tying expertise.
Each frame is a meticulously curated homage to the golden age of salmon fly fishing, featuring original 19th-century materials that are almost impossible to source today. From blued round-bend hooks of the 1800s to rare and exotic feathers—including Resplendent Quetzal, Cock-of-the-Rock, and Lincolnshire Pig’s Wool from the legendary Michael Rogan—every component is chosen with precise attention to authenticity.
Hardy’s unrivaled skill as a fly-tyer and historian ensures that each frame is not just an artistic masterpiece but also a faithful recreation of flies from the works of William Blacker, William Scrope, and George Kelson—some of the most revered names in the history of the sport. The frames are further enriched with antique fishing paraphernalia, including hallmarked sterling silver tying tools, original Forrest of Kelso flies, and vintage prints from historical angling texts, all of which elevate these creations to museum-quality collector’s items.
Presented in bespoke, handcrafted frames, each piece is a statement of artistry and tradition, designed for the most discerning collectors and passionate conservationists. The funds raised through these extraordinary works directly support TweedStart’s mission to introduce new generations to the beauty of angling and the importance of preserving the legendary River Tweed.
Owning one of these frames is not merely an acquisition—it is an investment in history, craftsmanship, and the future of the sport.
Fundraising Frames & Commisions with a contribution to Tweedstart for collectors and estates
Extra Large Example - An Homage to William Blacker 1843
A truly exceptional and unique creation, crafted to honor the inaugural River Tweed Fly Fair—a complete set of meticulously reproduced William Blacker flies for the Tweed, exactly as detailed in his seminal 1843 work. Each fly has been masterfully tied using materials sourced from the Kelson Collection, ensuring historical authenticity. Genuine 19th-century hooks, alongside rare and exotic materials—including Resplendent Quetzal, Cock-of-the-Rock, and Michael Rogan’s legendary pig’s wool from the extinct Lincolnshire Pig—bring this tribute to life. Nearly impossible to replicate, this exclusive homage to Blacker, the Tweed, and its angling legacy is framed with a historical river map and imagery from Blacker’s book. Priced at £3,500, with a significant contribution to TweedStart, this extraordinary piece can be customized to reflect a specific beat or estate, making it a truly bespoke collector’s masterpiece.
Large Example 1 - The Origin of the Jock Scott (Available now)
A truly remarkable and historically rich creation, this substantial yet elegantly compact frame pays tribute to the legendary Jock Scott, the iconic salmon fly that first took shape on the River Tweed at Bemersyde in 1850. At its heart is a step-by-step display, meticulously illustrating the construction of this intricate and revered pattern, tied on a full set of original Harrison Hooks from 1850.
Complementing the flies are tools of the trade from the era—a pair of Sterling Silver hallmarked scissors, once part of a 19th-century fly-tying kit, and a hand vice, an early forerunner of today’s precision tying tools. Adding to its historical gravitas, the frame also features a late 18th-century Magic Lantern Slide of Bemersyde House, a Jock Scott fly tied by Forrest of Kelso circa 1880, and plates from Scrope’s seminal book on fishing the Tweed.
This extraordinary frame serves as a benchmark for larger, bespoke commissions, offering collectors the opportunity to incorporate vintage prints of estate houses, depictions of River Tweed beats, or historically significant fly patterns. Prices typically range between £2,000 and £2,500, depending on the selected contents, with a substantial contribution supporting the invaluable work of TweedStart.
Large Example 2 - William Scropes Flies for the Tweed 1843 ( Available now)
This exceptional and historically significant frame pays tribute to the extraordinarily rare and unique flies of William Scrope, as meticulously illustrated in his seminal work, Days and Nights of Salmon Fishing on the River Tweed. Each fly has been faithfully recreated to mirror the original plates in Scrope’s book, tied on exceedingly rare, blued round-bend hooks from the period—an almost impossible find today.
Adding further gravitas and authenticity, this exquisite composition is enhanced with Sterling Silver scissors from the renowned Kelson Collection, an antique hand vice, and an original ‘Toppy’ tied by Forrest of Kelso, a truly remarkable artifact from one of Scotland’s most esteemed tackle makers. Completing the ensemble, a plate from Scrope’s book crowns the display, offering a visual and historical connection to one of the most influential figures in Tweed salmon fishing history.
Framed to museum-quality standards, this piece exemplifies the type of bespoke historical collections that discerning anglers and collectors may commission. Should the purchaser wish to focus on a different river within the catchment or another region of significance, such customizations are welcomed, as all proceeds support TweedStart and its invaluable mission to inspire future generations in the art and heritage of salmon fishing. Price: £2,500.
Small Example - the Jock Scott at Bemersyde - Forrest of Kelso
For those seeking a more accessible yet equally distinguished collector’s piece, this elegantly curated small frame serves as a perfect example. Originally commissioned for Lady Haig of Bemersyde House as a heartfelt token of appreciation for her exceptional hospitality during the recent Fly Fair in Kelso, this piece embodies the deep heritage of the River Tweed and its legendary fly-tying tradition.
At its heart is a Jock Scott, expertly tied by Stuart Hardy using original 19th-century materials, mirroring the very essence of the era. Complementing this masterwork is an antique Jock Scott, tied by the esteemed Forrest of Kelso, a name synonymous with the highest standards of traditional fly craftsmanship. Completing this charming and historically resonant composition, a captivating image of Bemersyde House anchors the frame, evoking the timeless spirit of one of Scotland’s most storied angling locations.
These exquisite smaller frames, crafted to the highest standards, are available for £750–£1,000, depending on the specific contents. For those seeking to include a greater number of flies or additional custom elements, prices will be adjusted accordingly.
Terms
The two exceptional large frames are currently available for purchase, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of angling history. Bespoke reproductions can be crafted upon request, ensuring each frame remains a true homage to the legacy it represents. All other work is undertaken strictly on a commission basis, with payment required upon order. This policy reflects the extraordinary rarity and irreplaceable nature of the materials sourced from the Kelson Collection, ensuring that every piece is crafted with the utmost care, authenticity, and historical integrity.
Delivery
Due to the extremely sensitive nature of the items, they will be hand delivered by Stuart Hardy for a small additional Fuel Cost anywhere in Scotland , England or Wales
Feedback
"Beautifully presented Stuart. I know the new owner will quite rightly cherish it for years to come"
Malcom Burgess
'Astonishing, magical historical item - only you would do this"
Ian Robertson
"Masterful work and a great cause - well done"
Tom Larson
If you would like to order a frame to support Tweedstart's amazing work or know more about the Kelson Collection or the River Tweed Foundation please contact us!
