Loch of Hundland
Mainland, Orkney
Hundland provides the main catchment area for water supplied to Boardhouse and is as such regarded as its sister loch wi ...
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Wayne Easton
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Loch of Boardhouse
Water managed by Orkney Trout Fishing Association
Type
Lake
Species
Brown trout
High 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.
Very shallow
The depth of a lake has significant impacts on its ecology. Reduced heat and light in deep lakes inhibit algal growth.
Moderate shoreline complexity
A lake with a high shoreline complexity will have numerous bays, points and peninsulas.
Low 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.
Boardhouse tends to be the visiting anglers preferred loch due mainly to the fact that it is virtually skerry free and fish can be taken all over with long drifts across the middle of the loch often being the most productive. Wading can be successful at times, usually early season when fish are more likely to be feeding on the stones. With Daphnia being a major food item for the Boardhouse trout, the angler must tailor his tactics to suit the conditions.
Although the fish can be found feeding right in the surface layers in overcast conditions calling for a floating or intermediate lines, in brighter conditions the daphnia recede to the depths and this requires a change to a higher density line to locate the feeding trout. June can bring prolific hatches of olives and midge which usually brings with it surface feeding activity, other important food items include shrimp, snails, caenis, cow dungs and daddies. The trout in the loch tend to average about 11- 14 oz. with a two-pounder worthy of note. Weed growth from mid summer onwards can reduce fishable areas but it seldom causes a problem.
Boat Hire: W.M. Hay, Cursiter Cottage, Twatt 01856841722 (Mobile 07769828534)
Barony Hotel, Birsay, 01856 721 327
More information about fishing the Orkney Lochs can be found on the Association’s website
Loch of Swannay
Mainland, Orkney
The peat stained waters of Swannay, the most northerly of the mainland lochs, hold some of the highest quality trout in ...