Fly fishing at Loch of Vatsetter, Yell, Shetland

About this water

Loch of Vatsetter lies just behind the Wick of Vatsetter, separated from the sea by a narrow isthmus. It is a small, shallow water of roughly 28 hectares, low-lying and close to the shore. The water is generally clear, with high alkalinity, and the shoreline is simple and rounded.

The loch holds mainly small trout, with the chance of sea trout, and the coastal situation makes it a pleasant water to fish. Access is straightforward from the isthmus between sea and loch, where you can park, camp and picnic on the strip of land before wandering the banks.

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.