Scotland

Fly fishing is a popular and exhilarating sport enjoyed around the world. Popular fly fishing destinations exist across the vast expanse of America with Alaska being one of the most favored by the discerning fly fisherman.  One thing, besides the excellent fishing, that many of these wonderful places share is breathtaking scenery. Fly fishermen appreciate the unspoiled and natural beauty of the surroundings they enjoy while fly fishing and many are very keen conservationists.

Other continents offer superb fishing opportunities and the best fly fishing in the United Kingdom can be found across Scotland. The range of fishing in Scotland is incredible from the world renowned rivers of the Tay and Spey to the large famous lochs right down to the multitude of small salmon runs in many truly unique places such as the remote Outer Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland.

A fly fishing vacation in Scotland could see you fishing for Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout one day and the next you could be reeling in a huge Atlantic Salmon, Grayling or even a huge Pike. To make the most of your holiday you will need to understand the fishing seasons, luckily you are able to fish for Rainbow Trout all year round and there are plenty of well stocked lochs to be found in all Scottish districts. However different areas often have slightly different seasons for fishing Salmon and Brown Trout.

Generally the Salmon fishing season runs from February through to late October and the season for fishing Brown Trout is usually from the middle of March until the end of September/beginning of October. If you are planning a fishing trip to Scotland it is often best to arrange a package vacation or to book a hotel in Scotland which has fly fishing. Many hotels across Scotland have their own fishing rights and private fishing and nearly all are within easy reach of prime fly fishing locations.

Package deals reduce the stress of organization and allow you more time to enjoy your vacation. There is no need to worry about arranging your fishing permit,  fly fishing tackle, choosing the best rod or reel as such things are usually taken care of with a wide choice of equipment available. If you decide to organize your own fishing trip it may be worthwhile contacting your hotel for advice, just let them know that you plan to spend time fly fishing and they should be able to furnish you with all manner of local information  to help make your time in Scotland memorable.

Employing the services of a local gillie is always a wise decision, gillies know the local waters well, they know all the best spots and what are the most successful flies and tackle. They will also know exactly where to get the correct fishing permits for each location. If you don’t use a gillie nearly all permits are available locally and your hotel will know where you should apply.

Fly fishing can be enjoyed by all of the family and Scotland has fishing suitable for all skill levels. There are many A.P.G.A.I. (Advanced Pro Game Angling Instructor) qualified instructors to choose from all with suitable experience to enhance the skills of beginners and seasoned veterans alike. With such a wide and varied selection of fly fishing venues in Scotland it may be necessary for you to adapt your fly fishing technique to match the area and using a fully qualified fly fishing instructor will help you develop such skills. Again, if you ask at your Scottish hotel they will let you know where to find a suitable instructor. You never know you might learn something very useful.

Fishing in Scotland is great fun, so, when you are planning your next vacation give Scotland some serious consideration and I guarantee that you will not be disappointed.