Loch of Asta

Water managed by Shetland Anglers Association

Type

Lake

Species

Brown trout and Sea trout

Directions

Conditions

High alkalinity

Very shallow

Low shoreline complexity

Low elevation

Small

OS Map: 466 – Explorer

HU 41281 41446

About this water

Loch of Asta lies in the Tingwall Valley on Shetland's Mainland, close to the B9074 in low, sheltered ground about a kilometre from the coast. It is a small loch of about 13 hectares, very shallow throughout, with clear, highly alkaline water, a productive combination that sets it apart from the peaty hill lochs common elsewhere in the islands. The shoreline is broadly simple, the loch running roughly half a mile north to south and narrowing to around 200 yards at its widest. To the east, the Hill of Steinswall offers some shelter from the wind, while the Hill of Houlland rises to the west, so the fetch across the water is short, and conditions are rarely severe.

A small stream connects Asta to the more celebrated Loch of Tingwall at the north.
Brown trout average eight to ten ounces, and from August onwards, sea trout enter the system, offering the chance of something larger. Wading is generally safe across much of the loch.

Location

Photos

Fishing permits can be purchased at either the Lerwick Tourist Office or the tackle shop, Rod and Line, which is in Harbour Street in Lerwick. The SAA organises a number of fishing competitions during the season running separate boat and bank leagues and the visiting angler will be made most welcome at these. Details will be supplied with your permit.

You can also buy a permit online from the Association's website.

Boats for hire – The Association has several boats for hire, and at present these are located at the following lochs – Loch of Benston, Loch of Asta, Loch of Northouse, Loch of Clousta, Loch of Tingwall, Sulma Water and Punds Water. These can change, but details of boat locations and hire can be got from the tackle shop.

Clubhouse – The SAA owns an unlicensed clubhouse, situated in Burns Lane in Lerwick, to which the visiting angler is most welcome. Hours of opening are from 8.30pm and 11.00pm on most Tuesdays and Fridays.