Best Fishing near Glencoe and Fort William

Fort William and Glencoe offer many fishing opportunities, set amidst spectacular scenery.

Firstly near Fort William, there are numerous salmon fishing opportunities. The River Lochy offers the salmon angler some of the most spectacular salmon fishing in the Scotland. The river is 10 miles long, and flows through the Great Glen of Scotland. The Loch produces big spring fish with a typical average weight of 12-15lbs.   

Furthermore, this is a chance to fish a salmon river under the backdrop of Britains tallest mountain, Ben Nevis. The scenery here is spectacular. Furthermore, the River Nevis is a smaller, more scenic salmon river. Likewise the Nevis is a spate river and fishes best when levels are dropping after rainfall. The season on the Nevis is from April 15th to September 30th

Further north of Fort William you have the River Morrison and River Oich, both empty into Loch Ness and therefore are part of the Ness Catchment.

These Salmon fishing rivers offer a distinctive and memorable experience for visiting anglers. The River Morrison and the River Oich both flow into Loch Ness, and therefore they form key parts of the Ness Catchment. Moreover, these rivers provide varied water types that suit many fishing styles. The upper sections offer fast runs, while the lower beats deliver deeper holding pools. In addition, the scenery creates a strong sense of immersion, with steep hills, quiet forests, and clear Highland air.

Fishing these rivers with a professional guide enhances both safety and success. Guides help visitors read water conditions, select suitable flies, and understand local regulations. Furthermore, they offer instruction on traditional Scottish techniques, including Spey casting. This support is especially valuable for anglers who are new to Scottish salmon water. As a result, guests spend more time fishing effectively and less time guessing.

Both rivers fish best during seasonal salmon runs, which often create dramatic moments. Fresh fish move quickly, and their power becomes clear during every take and run. Moreover, the proximity to Loch Ness adds a sense of mystery to each session. Visitors often pause to enjoy the surrounding landscape, which delivers calm and inspiration.

For travelers from the United States, a guided trip on the River Morrison or the River Oich combines adventure with comfort. Local expertise, accessible beats, and beautiful settings create an unforgettable Highland experience. In the end, these rivers offer more than sport. They provide connection, discovery, and a lasting appreciation for Scotland’s salmon traditions.

Pike fishing near Glencoe

Firstly, Loch Awe is one of Scotland’s best pike lochs. Because of its vast size, It pays to have local knowledge of the loch. Your guide Adam(pictured above), knows the best spots on the loch for both boat and shore fishing. Dead baiting is the best technique in the winter months. Equally as the temperatures warm up, pike are more receptive to a fly or lure.

Salmon River near Glencoe

The River Orchy is located to the west of Glencoe and flows into Loch Awe. This is a truly spectacular, and smaller spate river. You can catch migratory fish and brown trout. This is a streamy, fast flowing river, tumbling over impervious boulders in some sections, and gliding through deep pools in others. Typically, the best fishing here is when the river is falling after a spate. Late spring and early summer sees the beginning of the salmon migration on the Orchy.

If you are staying at the excellent Glencoe House Hotel, then both of these salmon rivers are accessible. And it’s about 33 miles from Glencoe house to the River Orchy by car, and a one hour drive through spectacular scenery. Equally if you want to combine a visit to Glencoe or Glen Etive, then the River Orchy is a perfect choice from Glencoe House. Furthermore, if you are prepared to drive from Glencoe North to Fort William there are some good fishing options.

Trout fishing near Fort William and Glencoe

There are numerous trout fishing rivers and lochs in this area. North of Fort William, you can enjoy fishing on the River Garry, Loch Garry, and numerous hill lochs. Wild brown trout are abundant here. The fishing starts to become productive in April and peaks in May and June. Large Ferox trout can be caught in Loch Arkaig and Loch Quoich.

There are two of the best wild brown trout fishing lochs in Scotland. Fishing here is from a drifting boat. We can supply tackle, life vests and the knowledge to target these fish.

Loch Shiel is also accessible from Fort William. It is a 25 minute drive west. You can fish for brown trout traditional style from a boat here. It’s an area of outstanding beauty and with Glenfinnan monument and viaduct visible at the East

Fort William offers a few sea fishing charters. The sea lochs in this area offer shelter and depth, as well as a variety of species. Pollack, wrasse, mackerel, dogfish, skate and other species can be caught in these waters.

In addition to the boat fishing, there are numerous sea fishing marks from the shore. Pollack, Ling, Wrasse and Conger eels can be targeted throughout Argyll and Lochaber.

Non anglers can enjoy these Sea fishing charters too, and enjoy the spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife.

If you would like to arrange a day trip, we can provide all the very best equipment. We will also collect and drop off from your accommodation. Lunches can be provided, as well as professional photography.

Please get in touch to arrange a day.