By admin - Loch Ness is famous around the world for its mysterious depths and folklore, but for anglers, it’s the fishing that really matters. Stretching over 20 miles long and plunging to depths of more than 230 metres, this vast body of water offers some excellent opportunities — especially for those targeting Salmon and Ferrox Trout by trolling.
What Is Trolling?
Trolling involves fishing by dragging lures or baited lines slowly behind a moving boat. It’s a method well-suited to Loch Ness, given its size and depth. With multiple rods out and lures set at different depths, trolling lets you cover a lot of water and target fish that are cruising through the loch’s mid and lower layers.
Target Species
The two main species to target on the loch are Atlantic Salmon and Ferrox Trout.
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Salmon usually start to show in good numbers by early summer, with June to August being prime months. These are often fish returning from the sea, including grilse — younger salmon that have spent just one winter at sea.
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Ferrox Trout are large, predatory brown trout that have adapted to feed on smaller fish like Arctic charr. They’re powerful fish and can reach impressive sizes. Ferrox are more of a spring and autumn catch, often taken while trolling deeper areas of the loch.
What Gear Do You Need?
When trolling Loch Ness, you’ll want rods that can handle heavy lures and deep lines. Downriggers or lead-core lines are often used to get lures down to the right depths, especially during the warmer months when fish tend to hold deeper.
Typical lures include Tobys, Rapalas, and other spoons or plugs that imitate small fish. It's important to vary your speed and depth throughout the day — sometimes a small change makes all the difference.
Conditions and Challenges
Fishing Loch Ness can be rewarding, but it’s not always easy. It’s a big, deep loch, and the fish don’t give themselves up easily. Weather can be unpredictable, especially the wind, which can make trolling difficult or even unsafe at times. Always check the forecast before heading out, and don’t be afraid to reschedule if it looks rough.
That said, even when the fish aren’t biting, being out on the loch is a memorable experience in itself — with dramatic hills, clear water, and the odd ripple that might make you glance twice.
Catch and Release
Salmon and Ferrox are wild, slow-growing fish. While the occasional brown trout might be kept, most anglers release their catches to help conserve the population. It’s a small price to pay to help keep this unique fishery healthy for future generations.
Planning a Trip?
Loch Ness is easily accessible from Inverness, and there are guided trips available if you’re new to the area or don’t have your own gear. Loch Ness Fishing Trips can supply everything and offer a pick-up from accommodation in Inverness.With boat, rods, permits and tackle all sorted, it’s a great way to experience the loch properly — and maybe land a fish worth bragging about.