Scottish lochs vary tremendously in size and character. Typical hill lochs surrounded by peat moss and slightly acidic in nature usually have dark tannin stained water and an abundance of wild trout that are usually less than 10 inches long but that behave like fish half as big again when hooked. Lochs of this type that are accessible from the sea often have runs of sea trout and salmon.
Lochs with a limestone base or machair lochs, where the water is rich, support a greater variety and abundance of insects. Their inhabitants grow larger and in some of them wild trout of several pounds are not unusual.
Favourite fishing times vary according to the altitude and weed growth in shallow lochs. High altitude lochs do not fish well until June, whilst rich lochs at sea level will fish from the start of the season but by July they may be covered with water plants making fishing well nigh impossible.
It is always best to research the lochs that you intend to visit to establish the best months for fishing. Many of the lowland lochs are stocked with rainbow trout that grow fit and strong on the good feeding and provide a challenge to the angler.
Lochs can be fished from the shores, or by wading or from float tubes or boats. Wading can be dangerous and should not be attempted without local advice.
Typical fly tackle for loch fishing is a rod rated between #5 and #8. The lighter rating is ideal for hill lochs whilst the heavier rating is suitable for fishing where rainbow trout feed deep and fast sinking lines are necessary for lures. A length of around 10ft is generally chosen so that a cast of three flies can be attached. Flies, tactics and tackle are best chosen with local consultation.
Willkommen in Schottland
Bienvenue en Ecosse
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