Loch of Kettlester
Yell, Shetland
Loch of Kettlester lies close to the B9081 on low coastal ground, less than a kilometre from the sea. It is a small, sha ...
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Loch of Littlester
Water managed by Shetland Anglers Association
Type
Lake
Species
Brown trout
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.
Very shallow
The depth of a lake has significant impacts on its ecology. Reduced heat and light in deep lakes inhibit algal growth.
Low 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.
Small
Larger lakes with good spawning often contain lots of smaller trout. Smaller lakes with limited spawning can produce larger trout.
Loch of Littlester lies a short way inland from the sea, a low-lying water with a simple, rounded shoreline. It covers roughly 20 hectares and is very shallow throughout; the water is clear and of low alkalinity. The banks run to about two kilometres in all, and the loch keeps an uncomplicated outline that is easy to read.
This clear-water loch can produce some good brown trout, with an average around 12 oz, and fish are taken all round the shore. Access is straightforward from the single-track B9081 that skirts the north side; park considerately without blocking gateways or passing places, then step down to the bank wherever convenient.
Rules
Rules
Before you fish, always check local signage or contact the relevant association to confirm which methods are permitted.
Shetland is an internationally important breeding ground for many bird species, and it is a criminal offence to disturb nesting wild birds. Some species have additional protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act — these are known as Schedule 1 birds.
Many of these birds nest on the ground, sometimes right next to small lochs and pools. Take care on your way to and from lochs, and avoid disturbing breeding birds and their young while fishing. If you come across Red-throated Divers on a smaller loch, simply avoid that loch — disturbing an adult bird leaves its eggs or chicks vulnerable to predation.
A number of lochs and surrounding areas are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and protected by specific laws and conditions of use. Failing to comply with these conditions is a criminal offence.
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