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©
Derek Mayes
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CC
Loch of Kirbister
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.
Kirbister is full of free rising trout, which tend to be of a smaller average size than most other Orkney lochs. This could be likened more to a highland hill loch and the successful flies would certainly compound this fact with big, bushy, surface disturbing patterns being the order of the day.
It is regarded as a splendid loch for those new to the sport and is very popular with junior anglers due to the fact that the trout are so responsive in even the most unsuitable conditions. Wading is easy and large baskets can be taken from the first day of the season to the last.
