Fly fishing at Loch of Stow, Mainland, Shetland

About this water

Lying north of Houlland on Mainland Shetland, close to the sea, this low-lying water sits on open ground above the shore. It is very small, about 2 hectares, and shallow, with a mean depth around 3 m. The water has low alkalinity and a simple, rounded shore.

Access is on foot by an easy line from the south-west, a walk of just over two kilometres trending north-east with only a slight rise before reaching the loch. The water has been stocked by the SAA and holds some good fish to a couple of pounds.

Location

Photos

Fishing permits can be purchased at either the Lerwick Tourist Office or the tackle shop, Rod and Line, which is in Harbour Street in Lerwick. The SAA organises a number of fishing competitions during the season running separate boat and bank leagues and the visiting angler will be made most welcome at these. Details will be supplied with your permit.

You can also buy a permit online from the Association's website.

Boats for hire – The Association has several boats for hire, and at present these are located at the following lochs – Loch of Benston, Loch of Asta, Loch of Northouse, Loch of Clousta, Loch of Tingwall, Sulma Water and Punds Water. These can change, but details of boat locations and hire can be got from the tackle shop.

Clubhouse – The SAA owns an unlicensed clubhouse, situated in Burns Lane in Lerwick, to which the visiting angler is most welcome. Hours of opening are from 8.30pm and 11.00pm on most Tuesdays and Fridays.