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Fishing Holidays in Scotland

Fishing, especially game fish angling, is a very popular leisure activity in Scotland and in places a major contributor to the rural economy. In addition to the native salmon, brown trout and sea-trout, coarse fishing also thrives, while there are also many sea angling enthusiasts, both from shore and hired boats.

It is also a sport available throughout Scotland, from the trout lochs of Orkney to the RiverTweed in the Scottish Borders. Other famous rivers include the Dee and Don in Aberdeenshire, the Spey as it flows through Moray, with the Tay as the largest of all.

In the Highlands, there are numerous hill lochs, providing a day’s enjoyment in superb surroundings, with brown trout generally free rising.

Fishing seasons vary but in general the salmon season runs from early February to late October, with brown trout mid-March to early October. There are close on a hundred ‘Salmon Fishery Districts’ all liable to show variations in their specific dates so it is important to check.

Scotland has plenty of stocked fisheries, usually with rainbow trout. These are open all year, as the rainbow is not native. Similarly there is no close season for coarse fishing, nor for sea angling. Coarse fishing is increasingly popular – with Loch Lomond’s pike, for example, attracting many enthusiasts.

In Scotland, fishing permits are required on an individual location basis – there is no national angling licence. Many of these permits are issued locally – very often from a local shop, specialised tackle or post office, or from the on-site fishing hut in the case of a commercial fishery.

And just as these places are excellent sources of information, the same applies to many fishing hotels, who will arrange permits, or ghillies. Sometimes hotels have their own fishing beats. There are also specialised handling agents and operators who arrange all aspects of an angling holiday in Scotland.

Fishing Around Scotland
Discover the best fishing around Scotland from the superb trout lochs of Shetland and Orkney to legendary salmon rivers. Top class fisheries and excellent coarse fishing and sea angling.

River Fishing
Though there are some exclusive salmon beats, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the value for money of a fishing permit for brown or sea trout.

Loch Fishing
From remote lochans where the walk in is part of the experience, to large lochs with boat hire, Scotland has plenty of loch fishing.

Coarse Fishing
Though eclipsed to some extent by the game angling, several lochs and rivers, particularly in the south of Scotland, offer rewards for coarse anglers. (Loch Lomond pike are legendary!)

Fisheries
Managed fisheries, usually stocked with rainbows, are now a common part of the Scottish leisure experience, and offer a rewarding and sociable days sport.

Sea Angling
Whether you just need local information for the best local marks, or intend to hire a boat for the day, you’ll find plenty of good advice.

Tackle Shops
Don't go angling in Scotland without visiting one! From tackle hire to tips on local waters, they play a key role in the sport.

Game Fishing
Scotland offers superb fishing for salmon, sea trout, brown trout and arctic charr plus excellent sea angling.

Useful Fishing Tips
Just what it says...

Fishing Hotels
Hotels in the best fishing areas often specialize in accommodating fishing customers.

Sporting Fish
Some more information on Scotland's sporting fish.