Fishing

Eddrachilles is not a dedicated fishing hotel but a number of our guests each year enjoy Sutherland's magical fishing in its lochs and rivers or from its rugged coast line.  There are a number of excellent options in Assynt to the south, or local permits from Scourie and District Angling Club for 47 local lochs, or further north there are to the reknown limestone lochs by Durness.

Local Permits

Scourie and District Angling Club leases the fishing rights of 47 lochs from the Scourie Estate, all of which contain native brown trout. These lochs are divided into 2 zones as well as a loch set aside for beginners/families.  The club owns four rowing boats which are available for hire.  With advance notice, it is possible to arrange a ghillie. The season runs from 15th March to 30th September (Boats available after 1st May).

From their website: “Fishing is by fly only, from dawn until dusk, Monday to Saturday inc. Anglers may fish any lochs within the zone stipulated on the permits. Permits are available online (recommended) or on weekday evenings and Saturday morning from 12 Moffat Square, Scourie, where the club has a selection of locally tied trout flies for sale, all proceeds going to club funds.”

Assynt Fly Fishing  - Trout, SALMON & SEA

Highly recommended, a booking with Assynt Fly Fishing - well in advance of your arrival at Eddrachilles Hotel as he is in high demand. Based close to Lochinver, Stewart Yates is a qualified Mountain Guide (SML) and UKCC Licensed Angling Coach who grew up in Assynt, the peninsula on the other side of Eddrachillis Bay from the hotel.  Assynt's wild terrain is perfect for small stream fly fishing, chasing feisty little Wild Brownies or even the elusive Atlantic Salmon while down on the coast there's the possibility of saltwater adventures fishing for Pollock.

Stewart understands  the Sutherland wilderness better than most  and is willing to share his exceptional knowledge of not only the lochs and rivers of the area but also its wildlife, flora and history. He offers a wide range of services. You can book lessons in fly-fishing casting from novice to advanced levels or take a wonderful guided trip again suitable for every level from novice family groups through to expert anglers.. Stewart also offers equipment hire. 

Sea Fishing

Again we recommend Assynt Fly Fishing who offer saltwater coastal fishing for experienced flycasters.  This an adventurous expedition often over steep rocks and therefore you need to have good mobility.  However, take comfort in the fact that Stewart is also a qualified mountain leader and your safety is his first priority.   Opportunities to catch big fish such a 5+lb pollock make this a very memorable and challenging day.

North Coast Sea Tours also offer sea angling, going offshore from Kinlochbervie.. 

The Limestone Lochs of Durness

The limestone lochs of the Durness peninsula are world famous for unique brown trout renowned for their size and fighting characteristics. The four Durness limestone lochs are about 45 minutes drive from Eddrachilles Hotel and require about a mile's walk from the road. The season runs April to September.

A large area of limestone  around Durness creates alkaline waters for the four lochs, a rich and fertile environment in which trout grow fit and large. The lochs sit out on a semi peninsular of limestone surrounded by peat and gneiss studded hills. The area can be wild and windy place so appropriate protective clothing is essential.  However, the lochs offer the most exquisite turquoise blue waters and challenging fishing ideal for the more experienced fly-fisher.

Permits for fishing these lochs is controlled by the Keodale Sheepstock Club, and should be booked online here.