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Fishing on Loch Lomond – a beginner’s guide

Of all the reasons to visit Loch Lomond Waterfront – and there are plenty – one of the biggest is to spend some time fishing. The waters are deep and brimming with fish including brown trout, pike and even salmon. But if you’re new to fishing, all of this might seem a little overwhelming. How do you catch a fish on Loch Lomond? Where do you even start? Well here’s our beginner’s guide to fishing on Loch Lomond. 

Get all your gear and permits first

Before you throw out your first line, make sure you have everything you need. At the very least, make sure you know how to get it. Permits are required to fish the waters of Loch Lomond, and they are available from the following:

Loch Lomond Angling Improvement Association
Luss Village Shop
Macfarlane & Sons, Balmaha
Balmaha Village Shop

If you also need to hire some gear like rods, nets or bait, check out our fishing gear blog for more information on the best places to get them. You can even hire boats too! These places will also be able to inform you of fishing season dates for the year. 

Wherever you choose to get your gear, the friendly staff will be happy to advise on what will work best. What you plan to fish for will mean slightly different requirements. For absolute beginners, a spinning rod is easiest to get started with. This is what you need to catch pike and perch. You will also only need lures like spinners or imitation fish to attract attention in the water. Finally, make sure you take a net so that you can safely bring your catch onto shore. 

Fly fishing for trout is a bit more difficult, especially if you are coming to this for the first time. You will need a fly rod and some well-tied flies. Fly fishing is an art in itself, and is something that can take people years to perfect. It may be an idea to hire a ghillie for the day as not only will they take you to the best spots, they can also help with your cast. 

Where to fish

Loch Lomond is a big loch, and deciding where to cast off is a big choice. 

If you have a boat, Balmaha and Balloch offer good places from which to set off. If you have brought your own boat to Loch Lomond Waterfront, then you are in for a treat. Guests have access to our own private beach, from which you can push off into the water. 

Luss is also a popular area to start fishing where many varieties of fish can be found. Wherever you fish, do remember to catch and release to ensure the stocks on the loch remain high and healthy.

How to fish

If you are coming to this having never cast a line into water before, you are sure to get the hang of spin fishing quickly. It’s just like you see in the movies – you throw your line into the water and hope to get a bite! Learning how to throw it takes a little practice, and then finding the right speed to reel it back in takes some time too. 

Fly fishing is something that needs to be seen to understand how to do it. There are plenty of tutorial videos available, including the one below. But the best way to learn is to do it, so don’t forget to get out onto the loch and practice practice practice!

Enjoy fishing on Loch Lomond

Whether you catch loads of fish, one fish or none at all, it really doesn’t matter. The important part is spending quiet time on the banks of Loch Lomond, admiring the views and enjoying the tranquility of the area. Staying at Loch Lomond Waterfront makes for a perfect base for a fishing trip, or even somewhere convenient to try it for the first time. No matter how well you do, our stunning luxury lodges will always offer a welcome retreat to put your feet up (and dry off if necessary) in total comfort. Check out our special offers and book your stay today.