Duck Loch

Loch Cladach Nigh Mhaol-choinnich, known locally as Duck Loch, lies in low ground on the west coast of Jura, sheltered from the sea by ancient raised beaches. This very small loch of roughly 3 hectares sits just 300 metres from the coast, its shallow waters spreading across a mixture of peat and boulders. A distinctive reed bed occupies much of the centre, while the northern shore is generally grassy and rocky underfoot, contrasting with the unstable, marshy ground to the south.

The loch holds brown trout, with fish of 2 pounds and over not uncommon despite the water's modest size. Best sport comes from dusk into nightfall, fishing from the north side with dark fly patterns retrieved slowly near the surface around the reed beds. The southern edge requires care where the feeding burn creates a deep channel. Wading is possible throughout, though the gradual banks also suit the shore angler well.

The loch sits in relatively low-lying terrain and may be approached from all sides, though its position means it can easily be missed without a clear vantage point. Ancient stone deposits mark old ice-age beaches, now stranded inland as this part of Scotland has slowly risen from the sea.