Scotland has thousands of lochs and rivers where you can find various species of salmon and trout, among others. Tourists from all over the world come in droves each year to go fishing while admiring the picturesque landscapes formed by the country’s famous mountains, fens, and forests.
If you wish to add fishing to your camping itinerary, we’re here to point you to the best locations for wild fishing in Scotland. This article will also clarify the applicable laws to this outdoor activity and answer other questions you might have while planning a fantastic fishing trip to Scotland.
What is wild fishing?
Wild fishing is a popular pastime or hobby in countries like Scotland, where the bodies of water are naturally teeming with fish. Most people do it with their preferred rod and artificial fly. Some might assume we can keep whatever we catch, but the recent push for increased sustainability encourages anglers to report the count and return their catch to the waters instead.
We classify wild fishing in Scotland into three primary categories: river fishing, sea fishing, and loch fishing. A few centuries ago, this activity attracted wealthy travellers seeking a relaxing break from hunting or shooting. Nowadays, several campsites and tourist guides have allowed fishing enthusiasts to enjoy wild fishing throughout the year.
Is wild camping and fishing legal in Scotland?
The wild camping laws in Scotland give everyone the right to access any unenclosed land in the country, provided that they respect the environment and its inhabitants.
Currently, the Scottish government doesn’t have a recreational fishing licensing system, too. However, you must get permission from the owner of the fishing rights for a particular river or loch. Since fishing rights are not always synonymous with land rights, please research where you should obtain a permit, or hire a ghillie or guide to arrange it for you.
A notable exception to this rule is the Border Esk region. Since the river flows into England, you must purchase a fishing licence before fishing there.
The best wild campsites for fishing in Scotland
We have compiled below the five wild campsites that anglers should not miss out on during a camping trip in Scotland. Each recommendation lies near the best fishing spots in the country and offers other opportunities to feel closer to nature, such as walking trails, boating, and wildlife watching. Check out our highlights to learn more about what else you can expect from these holiday destinations.
1) West Highland Way Campsite
We believe the West Highland Way Campsite is one of the top wild camping destinations if you wish to go on an angling adventure in Loch Lomond. You can pitch your tent in the secluded woodland area and head to the great loch or the nearby rivers for a day of fishing and boating, should the mood strike you.
Staying here will give you access to a wide variety of trout, salmon, and pike. Loch Lomond is also the home of the powan, a protected species that you must return to the lake in case you catch one.
If you are backpacking, you won’t have to worry about packing fishing equipment because several tackle shops in the area also offer the other necessary fishing implements.
2) Linnhe Lochside Holidays
Located in the heart of the Highlands, this family-owned and operated campsite offers an irresistible opportunity to anglers who wish to spend the day at a sea loch. You don’t have to worry about buying a permit because sea fishing in Loch Eil is free for everyone.
Wild camping in Linnhe Lochside Holidays will also be a feast for the eyes. While fishing, you can enjoy a stunning view of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Scotland. There might also be some sightings of the indigenous herons, otters and seals that frolic in the area. Afterwards, the rocky beach is the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset over the neighbouring hills.
3) Badrallach Campsite, Bothy and Holiday Cottage
Over on the west coast of Scotland, you will find this charming bothy on the banks of Loch Broom. You can pitch your wild camping tent or park your motorhome on the small, grassy slope beside the cottage.
The most accessible fishing spots on this site are located on the shores, but we suggest renting a boat for a more thrilling experience. Again, you don’t need a fishing permit for this sea loch. The fish species that reside in Loch Broom include cod, mackerel, and pollack.
Aside from being a fantastic choice for anglers, the Badrallach campsite can be a peaceful getaway for all nature lovers. For instance, we had a great time lounging on the hill while trying to spot golden eagles, deer, pine martens, and other local fauna.
4) Strathfillan Wigwams
This glamping destination near the Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond perfectly blends comfort with excitement, especially for fishing enthusiasts. Aside from Loch Lomond, it also has walking trails to various rivers, such as River Fillan and River Allt Auchtertyre. Fishing permits can be easily obtained from the campsite, too.
Since Strathfillan Wigwams lies within a working farm, there’s plenty you can do without leaving the campsite, too. Many guests go on picnics or cycling within its grounds. Kids also get to meet and pet the chickens and cows on the farm. Consider grilling the exotic meats sold in the in-house shop over an open fire at night.
5) Lodgehill Campsite
This wild camping site based in Aberdeenshire promises a rustic summertime experience. A 10-minute drive will take you to the coast, but anglers typically head to River Don, where you will find some of the best brown trout in Scotland. Other common fish species found there include sea trout and salmon.
Fishing permits may be secured from different angling associations depending on your chosen location in River Don, namely Alford, Inverurie, or Kintore. We particularly like spending the day fly fishing for brown trout in Alford because it provides a stunning view of the nearby moors framed by mountains and the gentle woodland slopes.
FAQs about going wild camping and fishing in Scotland:
Only sea fishing can be done without buying a permit in Scotland. If you plan to fish in the local rivers and loch, you must first request permission from the fishing rights owner. In most cases, you will be a written permit indicating the conditions you should adhere to during the activity. However, it can also be part of your package if you book one from a campsite.
Sea fishing is free in Scotland, but the price varies according to the owner or the angling club of a given river or loch. For example, a fishing trip in River Ness can cost you £20 per day, but it can go up to £30 per day from June to October, the peak fishing season. Fishing permits can be purchased online through the angling club’s official website or local stores.
Yes, as long as you have the permit to do so. We highly encourage loch fishing during wild camping in Scotland because it can afford you the most breathtaking views. Consider renting a boat and letting it drift while you try fly fishing for trout and pike. Be careful, though. High winds across the water can be dangerous to navigate among beginners.
Yes, but you must time your trip well to hit the optimal season in your selected fishing spot. For instance, trout fishing in Scotland is best done between mid-March to early October. On the other hand, salmon fishing can be tricky since these fish migrate at different times of the year. Remember to check the salmon fishing guide in Scottish rivers while preparing for your wild camping trip.
Visit Scotland Now for an Unforgettable Wild Camping and Fishing Adventure
Scotland is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Many assume that campers can do pretty much anything there, but like wild camping in England, you must be mindful of specific laws to protect the domestic flora and fauna from unsustainable and reckless practices.
While you can try your luck finding a suitable wild camping spot near this country’s numerous lochs, rivers, and coasts, we hope you will consider the top five destinations we described earlier in this article. Each entry in our list provides opportunities to discover the various ways to spend the day wild fishing in Scotland.
