Fly fishing at West Loch, Mainland, Shetland

About this water

West Loch lies beside the B9078, close to the coast and low-lying on open ground. It is a very small, shallow water of just over 2 hectares, with a short, simple shoreline and clear, highly alkaline water.

The loch can produce very large trout of more than 5 lb but is often dour, and the margins can become weedy. It is stocked regularly by the SAA. Access is straightforward from the B9078 along the west bank.

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.