Fishing

If you’re a keen angler or simply enjoy the peace that comes with sitting beside one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the country, Loch Lomond is a genuinely exceptional place to cast a line. Loch Lomond is home to more species of fish than any other loch in Scotland, including salmon, sea trout, brown trout, pike, perch, bream, chub, roach and the rare and protected powan. Whether you’re after a trophy catch or just a quiet morning on the water, the loch delivers.

Pike

Loch Lomond is considered one of the best locations for pike fishing by the Pike Anglers Club of Great Britain. The loch produces 30lb-plus pike every year and is arguably one of the finest pike fishing lochs in the country. At 24 miles long, it is vast, and an in-depth knowledge of its waters is needed to locate these predatory fish. Pike fishing is mostly done from a boat, and you can fish using lure, fly or bait depending on your preference and the time of year.

Salmon and Sea Trout

Fishing on Loch Lomond has lured anglers for centuries, with salmon and sea trout being among the most prized catches. The season for salmon and sea trout runs from 11 February to 31 October. When fishing for salmon and sea trout you must always have legal right or written permission, and many rivers now operate mandatory catch and release policies for salmon. Trolled lures work well in the early part of the season, while drifting with a team of flies becomes more productive as the water warms through summer.

Beyond the Loch

The wider area offers excellent variety for those who want to explore further. In the Trossachs you can fish Loch Ard, Loch Achray and Loch Venachar, all of which hold pike, perch, rainbow trout, salmon and brown trout. Loch Lubnaig near Callander is a hidden gem and a great spot for a full day out, with BBQ and picnic tables on site. Bank fishing with bait, spin or fly is permitted for brown trout, sea trout, char, salmon and perch. Note that fishing is not permitted on Sundays at Loch Lubnaig.

Guided Fishing Trips

If you’re new to fishing or simply want to make the most of the water with someone who knows it well, guided trips are well worth considering. The Lomond Angler offers guided fishing trips in and around Loch Lomond and the West Coast, covering fly fishing, trolling and traditional angling, designed to suit all skill levels. The guide provides the boat, permit, rods, tackle and life jackets, so all you need to bring is warm and waterproof clothing.

Permits and Practicalities

Always make sure you have a permit or other required permission before fishing. Permits are available from a wide range of local outlets including newsagents and fishing tackle shops. Fishing is not permitted on Sundays anywhere on Loch Lomond. Boats can be hired from Balmaha Boat Yard for fishing on the east of the loch, and from Loch Lomond Boat Hire at Balloch for the southern end. For permit information and membership, contact the Loch Lomond Angling Improvement Association directly.