Loch Brecbowie
Galloway Forest Park, Scotland
This is a very fishy looking loch but on the day we fished it we only managed two small trout. The weather being favou ...
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©
Alan O'Dowd
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Loch Doon
Water managed by Galloway Forest Park
Type
Lake
Species
Arctic charr, Brown trout, and Perch
Low alkalinity
High alkalinity indicates water fertility and can signal the presence of larger trout. Fish in alkaline waters have a wider variety of invertebrates to feed on.
Shallow
The depth of a lake has significant impacts on its ecology. Reduced heat and light in deep lakes inhibit algal growth.
High shoreline complexity
A lake with a high shoreline complexity will have numerous bays, points and peninsulas.
Mid elevation
Lakes at a higher altitude can take longer to warm up during the season and may not fish well until summer.
Large
Larger lakes with good spawning often contain lots of smaller trout. Smaller lakes with limited spawning can produce larger trout.
Loch Doon, situated at the source of the River Doon, is Ayrshire's largest water body, stretching 6 miles long and up to 1½ miles wide. The loch has been dammed for hydroelectric power, causing water levels to fluctuate by as much as 40 feet. Due to significant afforestation in the vicinity, the water has become relatively acidic.
The loch is home to brown trout (averaging 8 ounces, with some over 15 pounds), Arctic charr, perch, and sizable pike. Although salmon could theoretically enter the loch, they are seldom observed or caught. Anglers should be particularly cautious when fishing from the shore due to the unstable bank conditions caused by fluctuating water levels. The southern end is usually the most fruitful for fishing, but fish can be caught from nearly any shoreline spot. All legal fishing techniques are permitted.
Loch Bradan
Galloway Forest Park, Scotland
Loch Bradan, situated on the headwaters of the River Girvan in the Carrick Forest, extends 2 miles in length and ¾ of a ...