Catch of the day
From stunning Lowland rivers to secluded Highland lochs, Scotland is a world-class fishing destination
IT is a sport that promises an opportunity to enjoy peace and quiet in beautiful surroundings. Yet fishing in Scotland’s world-class angling waters is not short of thrills and spills either. The country is one of the world’s top destinations for freshwater and sea angling, with fishing available all year round. So whether you’re chasing the King of Fish – the Atlantic salmon – or you prefer the hard-fighting monster pike or giant common skate, you’re in the right place.
north of the Border you will discover a tremendous variety of species. From beautiful Lowland rivers to secluded Highland and island lochs, excellent salmon, trout and coarse fishing opportunities abound.
From the river Tweed in the Borders to Loch Awe in Argyll, you’ll find yourself immersed in the finest landscapes. You might even have a water course to yourself, or be lucky enough to share it with stunning wildlife including red deer, eagles and osprey.
So far this season, some cracking fish have been caught by both beginners and experienced anglers.
The Tay, which holds the uK record salmon of 64lb caught near Dunkeld, Perthshire, by Georgina Ballantine in 1922, has the greatest flow of any Scottish river.
Anglers fishing on the Tay have caught more than 1,500 salmon weighing up to 34lb, while Scotland’s second longest river, the Tweed, has also had a positive start to its season, with 1,562 salmon of up to 24lb.
In Aberdeenshire, the Dee, which suffered some of the worst damage caused by floods in January, has recorded 1,122 salmon of up to 28lb caught on the fly.
In the Spey, Lower Spey Gordon Brae beats have exceeded last year’s spring total, with 99 fish, the bulk 66 caught last month.
The Annan, which rises in the Devil’s Beef Tub, in the Southern uplands near Moffat, Dumfriesshire, has great trout fishing at present, with salmon and sea trout being caught on the lower river.
With reports of good fishing in the Solway, now could be the right time to book Annan trout, salmon and sea trout fishing, available at very reasonable prices. Details from FishPal on www.fishpal.com, which has an online booking and information system for rod fishing.
If you do prefer sea angling, our long and rugged coastline provides fabulous fishing opportunities for both boat and shore anglers. Skate, cod and beagle shark fishing off the West Coast are particular favourites and charter firms will take you in search of that next great catch. Many companies offer lessons for beginners or those looking to brush up on their techniques.
Groups can learn from ghillies and guides who will happily share pointers and advise on prime fishing spots. Go with a few friends or the family and see who can hook the biggest catch.
VisitScotland’s online Fishing Guide is crammed full of helpful tips, places to stay and types of fishing available. www.visitscotland.com/
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