Top 10 tips for fishing near Loch Lomond

Our self-catering lodges, chalets, shepherd’s huts and studio lodges offer the ideal setting for a relaxing fishing getaway near Loch Lomond. Set right on the water’s edge, our holiday resort provides unrivalled access to one of Scotland’s most scenic and renowned fishing locations. To help you make the most of your time by the loch, we’re sharing some handy fishing tips. The perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors during your stay with us!

1. Choose your fishing location

During your stay, enjoy fantastic fishing opportunities across Loch Lomond and nearby lochs like Katrine, Ard, Dochart and more. These waters offer fish like brown trout, salmon, sea trout, coarse fish and grayling. Scenic rivers such as the Endrick, Dochart, Teith and Forth also provide diverse fishing experiences in breathtaking surroundings. See our guide to fishing locations.

2. Enjoy access to our private beach

Guests at Loch Lomond Waterfront enjoy exclusive access to the lochside and our private beach. It’s an ideal spot for launching a fishing boat and soaking up the beauty of the loch. Just one of the many perks of staying with us here on the shores of Loch Lomond!

The waters edge at Loch Lomond Waterfront
Access to the lochside from our holiday resort in Scotland

3. Get a permit or landowner’s permission

Before fishing, make sure you have the correct permit or landowner’s permission for your chosen fishing location. In our local village of Balmaha, permits are available from the village shop or boatyard. Each permit includes site-specific rules, so be sure to follow them carefully at all times.

4. Follow angling law and safety rules

These fishing season dates will tell you the specific times of year when you are allowed to fish. Please stick to them, as they are a legal requirement, which help protect our fish populations. Find out more about fishing laws and safety regulations in Scotland. 

5. Hire fishing bait and tackle

Fishing bait and tackle are available from O’Brien’s Newsagents in Bonhill or from Loch Lomond Leisure, located at the Loch Lomond Shores leisure and retail centre in Balloch. Both are approximately a 25-minute drive from your base at Loch Lomond Waterfront.

Aerial view of Balmaha Scottish village at Loch Lomond.
You can get permits, tackle, bait and more in our local village of Balmaha

6. Get a personal fishing guide

Experienced guides are available for hire through Loch Lomond Leisure, offering expert advice on the best fishing spots and techniques. Alternatively, you can book a fishing tuition session with Fly Casting Scotland, led by our resident fly-fishing instructor, John Milne. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, personalised guidance is available to suit every level.

7. Respect local wildlife and the environment

The Loch Lomond area is part of a protected national park and a haven for Scottish wildlife. So, please take care not to disturb any animals or birds, and dispose of litter responsibly. Follow the Scottish Outdoors Access Code at all times.

8. Check the weather before you fish

Scottish weather is famously changeable! So it’s always best to check the latest local forecast before you set off, and make sure you’re dressed appropriately for all eventualities.

Freshly caught brown trout with loch in the background
You can fish for brown trout in the area, along with many other species

9. Bring a map and compass for remote spots

There are many remote fishing spots where mobile phone signals can be unreliable. Bringing a physical map and compass can help you navigate safely and find your way back, without having to rely on technology.

10. Check out our Loch Lomond fishing guide

For more information, please take a look at our Loch Lomond Fishing section and feel free to ask us if you need any further advice. We are here to help during your stay with us and can recommend some hidden gems and share our local secrets!

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