Fishing

Fresh water Fishing Rights

“To fish in Scotland you do not require a rod licence from the government or environment agencies. The costs and rights to fish in various waters are controlled by landowners, fishing associations, angling clubs and commercial fisheries. This means you require a separate permit to fish each individual water. Your permit and any literature provided by the proprietors will stipulate what bait and methods are allowed, as individual fisheries and rivers sometimes impose restrictions on these areas, either all year round or at certain times of the season.”- Fish Lochaber

River Fishing – Generally Not Allowed

You can only fish in our rivers here if you are part of a local angling club or pay to fish a river at an estate. Some sections of river are not allowed to be fished at all. Such as the National Trust owned section of the River Coe. Most rivers here have very low numbers due to poaching. The River Coe once abundant with Salmon now has very little numbers and you are now lucky even to see one.

Sea fishing

Sea angling in Scotland is free, with no permits or licence required to fish around our wonderful coastline. – Fish Scotland

Tool and Tackle in Ballachulish are our local fishing shop. They stock various rods, reels, lures and everything else you will need. You can also rent equipment from them.

If you just want to fish from the shore the local sea lochs are freely accessible and mackerel, sea trout and pollack are commonly caught from the shore.

There are many opportunities for fishing in the area, although in some areas there are restrictions or permits required.

WEST COAST FISHING CHARTERS – FORT WILLIAM

Explore the sheltered waters of Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil beneath the slopes of Scotland’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.

Fish at your leisure while enjoying the stunning scenery of the West Highlands.

Their private fishing charters can be tailored for serious anglers or complete beginners and anything in between.

You can catch gurnard, thornback ray, ling, cod, dabs, herring, mackerel, whiting, spurdog, lesser spotted dog fish, bull huss, tope, conger eel, pollock, coley and skate plus other species.

Specialist trips such as skate fishing and night trips are also available on request.

You can also charter the boat for ash scattering.

They are currently running trips daily, departing from Thomas Telford marina at Corpach.

ARGYLL SEA TOURS – OBAN

During this 3 hour trip you will experience the beauty of the west coast whilst having the opportunity to catch your dinner.

There is skipper and crew onboard for assistance, and our trips are suitable for beginners and children. However please be aware this is the full sea fishing experience so you will be expected to handle hooks and fish.

If you are joining them for a fishing trip please go dressed appropriately as waterproofs are not provided and weather can change quickly.

You are welcome to take your catch home, and help with gutting can be provided onboard.

Please bring something to take your catch home in.

All fishing gear is provided.