Ready for a Big Catch? The Best Fishing Experiences in Glasgow You Need to Try
Fishing in Glasgow is never predictable, but that’s exactly why I love it. The variety of settings, from fast-moving rivers to tranquil lochs, always keeps things interesting.
Every time I fish, I’m either perfecting my casting or working on new techniques. The River Clyde tests my skills, while the lochs offer a much-needed escape from the usual routine.
Don’t miss out on the best fishing experiences in Glasgow—from scenic spots to guided tours and local shops, it’s all here for the perfect fishing adventure.
Best Fishing Spots in Glasgow
River Clyde
– Media from river_and_stream_fishing
Location: Different areas of Glasgow
The River Clyde, managed by UCAPA, has 130 miles of fishing waters ranging from lively streams to peaceful glides. You’ll find wild brown trout and grayling year-round, along with salmon and sea trout during migration.
The river starts near Daer Reservoir and flows through villages like Crawford and Abington before reaching the Falls of Clyde. While the falls block migratory fish upstream, there are still great trout and grayling fishing above them.
Fishing here changes with the seasons, with spring hatches of March browns and olives bringing plenty of action. By autumn, trout are feeding heavily ahead of winter, making it a rewarding time for anglers.
Pro Tips:
- When fishing in the River Clyde, focus on the deeper pools below fast-moving water, as these areas often hold larger trout and grayling.
- Using a stealthy approach and casting slightly upstream can help you avoid spooking the fish and improve your chances of a catch.
Loch Lomond
– Media from lochlomondfisheries
Location: Loch Lomond National Park
Distance from Glasgow: 47-minute drive
Loch Lomond is the largest freshwater lake in Britain, with over thirty islands and prime fishing spots at its southern end. It’s especially popular for coarse angling, with large pike and perch commonly found in its waters.
The loch offers a variety of fish, including trout, salmon, pike, and perch, and fishing can be done from the shore or by boat. Popular spots to launch a boat include Balmaha and Balloch, with the loch’s fishing conditions remaining reliable, even in drought years.
The LLAIA manages the lake and issues fishing permits, which can be purchased from local retailers or the LLAIA secretary. Fishing is not allowed on Sundays, so be sure to get your permit beforehand from Loch Lomond Angling Improvement.
Pro Tips:
- For fishing on the east side of Loch Lomond, you can hire boats from Balmaha Boat Yard. If you’re fishing the south end, head to Loch Lomond Boat Hire in Balloch.
- Loch Lomond is home to the protected powan species, so make sure to research it beforehand. If you catch one, release it back into the water immediately to protect the population.
Forth & Clyde Canal
– Media from scottishcanals
Website: https://www.scottishcanals.co.uk/visit/canals
Office Address: Canal House, 1 Applecross Street
Phone: +44 141 332 6936
Prices: £8 (adult annual membership)
Operating Hours: Seasonal
The Forth & Clyde Canal, opened in 1790, is a popular fishing spot in central Scotland, known for its wide variety of fish. You can expect to catch roach, bream, rudd, gudgeon, carp, and tench, with the occasional perch, pike, trout, or eel.
The canal is particularly well-known for its tench, with prize carp, including a 34 lb/12 oz Scottish record caught in 2010, found around Glasgow’s Firhill Basin. Roach and perch are common throughout, offering a great experience for beginners.
Some rules to keep in mind include returning all fish alive, staying at least 25 metres from locks, and using no more than two rods. It’s also important to keep the area tidy, avoid designated moorings, and not block the towpath with equipment.
Pro Tips:
- Check out local tackle shops and angling clubs for valuable tips and to make the most of your fishing experience.
- If fish aren’t rising, switch to nymphs or larger lures to target trout feeding below the surface.
Carron Valley Reservoir
– Media from angusmacinnes
Location: B818, Denny
Distance from Glasgow: 44-minute drive
Carron Valley Reservoir, nestled between Denny and Fintry, is an exclusive members-only spot for fishing wild brown trout. Spanning over 1,000 acres, it’s known for its hard-fighting, naturally fed trout, some reaching up to 6 lb.
To fish here, you’ll need to be a member, as day rods are not available. Members can fish from boats or the bank, with boat bookings required in advance, while bank fishing is available anytime without a reservation.
Whether you prefer boat or bank fishing, Carron Valley offers a rewarding experience, especially in summer and autumn. The peaceful setting, combined with fly fishing, makes it a unique and enjoyable location for anglers.
Pro Tips:
- Early mornings and evenings are the best times to fish, as trout are more active and feeding close to the surface. Adjust your tactics throughout the day to match the changing conditions for better results.
- If you’re fishing from a boat, make sure to bring a drogue to slow your drift in windier conditions, as it can help you stay in the optimal fishing zone.
Guided Fishing Tours Around Glasgow
Alba Fishing
– Media from albagamefishing
Website: https://albagamefishing.com/
Phone: +44 131 560 6629
Alba Fishing provides exclusive access to a private trout loch near Glasgow. The tour offers fly fishing using floating lines and small imitative dry flies, with fishing for brown trout from March to October and rainbow trout year-round.
Fishing is done from the bank, making it accessible for all, including families with children and less-mobile guests. The venue offers a peaceful, private environment, ideal for corporate events, private parties, and groups, with catering for up to 30 people.
Pro Tip:
Add outdoor catering to your fishing trip by setting up a gazebo overlooking the water. Enjoy a delicious hot lunch while watching the trout rise!
Scotia Fishing
– Media from scotia_fishing
Website: https://scotiafishing.com/
Phone: +44 (0)7415 974879
Scotia Fishing offers family fishing trips in Scotland, providing memorable outdoor experiences near Glasgow. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, their professional guides will ensure a fun and engaging fishing adventure for all ages.
The trips include equipment, qualified tuition, safety gear, transport services, waterproofs, waders, food, and water. It’s an ideal way to bond with your family, learn new fishing skills, and enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty.
Pro Tip:
The best time to visit for family fishing trips is during the warmer months, from May to September, when Scotland’s rivers come alive with juvenile wild brown trout.
Loch Lomond Leisure Scotland
– Media from lochlomondleisure
Website: https://lochlomond-scotland.com/activities/fishing/
Phone: +44 333 577 0715
Loch Lomond Leisure offers fishing boat hire starting from £85, with options for 2-hour or longer trips. Fishing rods, tackle, bait, and permits are included, and guided trips are available for an additional cost.
The boats accommodate 4 to 6 people, and fishing equipment is available for hire with options for 2-hour, 4-hour, or 8-hour rentals. Permits are required, with both daily and yearly options available.
Pro Tip:
Arrive 30 minutes before your booking to allow time for a safety briefing and equipment setup. If you’re new to fishing, consider renting a longer boat hire to fully enjoy the experience and explore different areas.
Carron Valley Fishery
– Media from feeneyjimm
Website: https://carronvalleyfishery.com/
Phone: +44 753 936 0448
Carron Valley Fishery offers guided fly fishing for brown trout in a stunning still water setting, available from the 15th of March to the 6th of October. The tour provides single or multi-day trips with professional guides, ensuring safety and enjoyment for anglers of all abilities.
The all-inclusive package costs £425 per guide per day for up to two anglers, covering boat hire, lifejackets, lunch, snacks, and drinks. It also includes optional tuition, gear access, and a 10% discount on annual membership.
Pro Tip:
There aren’t many shops, cafes, or convenience stores near Carron Valley Fishery, so make sure to stock up on any essentials before you arrive.
Fishing Gear and Tackle Shops in Glasgow
Glasgow Angling Centre
– Media from fishingmegastore
Website: https://www.fishingmegastore.com/
Address: 1, The Point Retail Park, 29 Saracen St
Phone: +44 141 212 8880
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Friday, Saturday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM
- Tuesday – 9 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Glasgow Angling Centre is Europe’s largest fishing tackle retailer, offering a vast selection of gear for fly, sea, coarse, and predator fishing. The store also features fly-tying materials, fishing clothing, and outdoor equipment for every angler.
Customers can shop both in-store and online, with a range of brands like Savage Gear, Costa-Del-Mar, and Abu, along with special offers on various items. In addition to fishing tackle, they sell shooting and hunting products such as rifles and scopes.
Pro Tip:
If you’re new to fly fishing, start with a versatile all-round rod and line combination. This will give you the flexibility to try different fishing techniques and environments without the need for specialised gear right away.