For many, fly fishing for Atlantic Salmon in Scotland is the holy grail when it comes to fishing. For decades, Scotland has been one of the most popular destinations in the world when it comes to salmon fishing. It’s easy to see why when you have the perfect blend of breath taking scenery, numerous remote salmon rivers and of course Scotland’s most famous product, whisky. Year after year, anglers return to Scotland to chase the elusive silver tourist and there has been many a fishing dream come true on the banks of a Scottish salmon river. So, if you are planning a trip to Scotland, at what time of year should you visit, and which tactics are most likely to bear fruit?
The salmon fishing season in Scotland
The salmon fishing season in Scotland depends on the individual river itself. Some rivers open in mid-January while others open in February. Most rivers usually close in October with a few rivers open until the end of November. One curiosity about salmon fishing in Scotland is that no Sunday fishing is allowed.
During the early part of the season from January through until mid-March, often salmon are few and far between. However, the fish that are caught at this time of year are usually extremely big and powerful. For many anglers catching a salmon at this time of year is the ultimate prize. It is easy to see why as fish at this time of year test both angler and tackle to the absolute limit.
The runs of spring salmon entering Scotland’s salmon rivers usually start to peak from April through until the end of May. Usually at this time of year the days are also getting longer, and the weather is also much more agreeable. June heralds the start of the summer run. At this time of year, grilse (smaller fish which have only been feeding at sea for around two years) return to the rivers. These fish are often plentiful, and sport can be fast and furious. In addition to the grilse larger summer salmon also run the rivers. The height of the summer run depends on the river itself but usually it can be anytime from July through until the end of August. Summer is a favourite time for many anglers to come to Scotland. Not only is the weather usually at its best but also the surrounding countryside is truly stunning. September and October are when the autumn fish enter Scottish rivers. Traditionally this is when big numbers of salmon are caught. This is partly because the rivers are at their most populated with fish. However, in recent years the autumn run has not proved to be as productive as it once was. For many anglers April and May or August and September are the prime months to visit Scotland and catch that elusive Scottish salmon.
Scotland’s salmon rivers
There are so many salmon rivers in Scotland that the visiting angler is truly spoiled for choice. Each river has its individual characteristics providing the angler with a unique challenge. From the small and intimate salmon rivers in the Scottish Highlands, to the world famous River Spey and Dee. There are also much larger rivers to explore like the Tay in central Scotland or the Tweed in the Scottish Borders. There truly is no shortage of options even for the most discerning of anglers. Most rivers fish well at certain times of the year and some rivers in the Scottish Highlands can be much more productive after there has been some heavy rain and a subsequent lift in water. If you want to catch a big salmon that there is only one place to visit and that is the mighty River Tay. The Tay has a reputation for consistently producing big fish. It is mighty by name and by nature as it one of the largest rivers in Scotland. When it comes down to choosing a river it really depends on what kind of experience the visiting angler is looking for.
Fly rods for salmon fishing in Scotland
Traditionally the double handed Spey rodis used in Scotland under normal circumstances,but a lot depends on the time of year that you are fishing as well as the river that you are fishing on. During the early part of the season water levels on Scotland’s rivers are usually high and so big tube flies are often the order of the day. In such circumstances a larger rod around fifteen feet in length is perfect for the job. The larger rods make it easier to cast the heavier flies. As already mentioned usually at this time of year the fish are also bigger and so a more powerful and longer rod gives the angler more control during a long energy sapping fight.
During the summer months, usually we start to use smaller dressed flies and lighter fly lines. The water is usually much lower and clearer and often stealth tactics can become the name of the game. This is when many anglers use lighter tackle and may change to a shorter rod. Anything from eleven to thirteen feet is a popular choice. However, on the bigger rivers, longer rods are still used as they help aid casting distance. During the autumn period much depends on the water conditions. If the water is high, then often longer rods (similar to what are used in the spring) coupled with heavier tube flies are employed. However, if there is an Indian summer and river levels remain low through the autumn period then the summer tactics of lighter lines and shorter rods coupled with dressed flies often work best.
Terminal tackle
You want to carry a good selection of fly lines when salmon fishing in Scotland. Many anglers prefer using Spey lines which are designed to aid Spey casting. Lines with various sink rates as well as a variety of poly leaders are all that is usually required. It is also important to have a strong and robust fly reel which has a good reliable drag system and good backing capacity. Some of the salmon once hooked can run over a hundred yards within seconds and so a good drag system coupled with a reel with adequate line capacity can be the difference between landing that Scottish salmon of a life time or heartbreak.
Make sure that you have a good selection of salmon flies when you visit Scotland. During the early part of the season when the water is usually high and cold larger heavier tube flies work well. As we progress through the season and river levels drop smaller dressed flies often become the order of the day.
When it comes to leader material having various spools of nylon or fluorocarbon with a breaking strain of anything between eight to eighteen pounds should cover every eventuality.
It is not only salmon fishing that Scotland is famous for. The country boasts beautiful scenery, an intriguing history with numerous palaces, castles and battlefields as well as being the home of golf. There are no shortage of activities away from the river bank. You also cannot forget the world famous Scottish whisky. For any fly fisher passionate about their sport, salmon fishing in Scotland is a memorable experience. With its warm and welcoming people, beautiful scenery and a wide array of magnificent salmon rivers, Scotland truly is an Atlantic Salmon fishing paradise!
This article was written for Flies And Fins by Samantha Datta who along with her husband is the Director of Salmon Fishing Holidays Scotland www.salmonfishingholidaysscotland.com