The mountainous region of northern Scotland abounds with inland lakes, torrential rivers, meandering burns and coastal bays, which all present a challenge to the keen fisherman – or woman.
Sea fishing is excellent all along the coast, with cod, pollock and flatfish waiting to be caught from shore; or you can charter a boat and go wreck-fishing for deep-water species, such as conger eels and sharks.
The Scottish Highlands offer an unequaled fly-fishing experience for everyone, whether complete novices or expert anglers. Packages range from one day to a full week, and some companies even offer corporate fishing events.
Although fairly expensive, organized fishing holidays will usually include provision of all necessary tackle, waders, bait and transport, as well as your accommodation and fishing permit. Even experienced anglers may require advice about the best places and times to fish in an unfamiliar location, so expert tuition and advice from local fishermen is always available too.
The timeless Highland scenery creates a magnificent backdrop to your fishing holiday. Surrounded by craggy mountains, you can breathe in the clear, fresh air and commune with nature in this unspoiled wilderness as you cast your line into the tumultuous waters: dotterel and plovers soaring overhead, deer running in the glens and colorful butterflies hovering over the rich variety of flowers and shrubs.
There are two main types of fly-fishing in the Highland area: salmon and trout. Salmon are caught only in rivers, when they come in from the Atlantic to spawn, so that the fishing season in each river is slightly different, although the best time for salmon fishing is from mid-summer until autumn.
Trout fishing requires both stealth and skill, so that the personal satisfaction of a good catch is its own reward. You can choose between the excitement of spending the day standing almost up to your waist in fast-flowing river water; or the more leisurely experience of casting from a boat on one of the picturesque ancient lochs.
When you are tired of fishing, there is a lot more to do in the Highlands: golfing, hill-walking, mountain biking, shooting, nature-watching, rock climbing, pony-trekking, surfing, boating, sight-seeing and cultural activities, shopping, dining out or just lazing on the beach. There are castles, museums, art galleries and heritage centers, ancient churches, picturesque villages and shopping centers. If you are making a long stay in the area, you could also take a ferry trip to the Isle of Skye, with its dramatic Cuillin Mountains.
The range of accommodation available is literally limitless: hotels and guesthouses, cottages, caravans, farms, hostels and even castles; and you can choose a holiday base by the coast, loch-side, in town or in the middle of the countryside.
If this type of holiday appeals to you, there are lots of locally based companies that organize inclusive fishing breaks in the Highlands; or you can make your travel and accommodation arrangements independently and simply book one or two days of fishing once you arrive.