Spiggie Beaches
Mainland, Shetland
The Shetland Angling Association has recommended this location as one of the possible spots to catch sea trout, which ca ...
Loch of Spiggie
Water managed by Shetland Anglers 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.
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.
Owned by the RSPB and rented by the SAA. There are two areas where fishing is banned – the bay at the far south end and a small area in the north west corner.
This is the largest loch in the south mainland, and for more than a century, one of the most popular. Sadly this water has, over the past few years, suffered a decline in catches, but there are still fish to be caught. There is a large area of sandy shallows at the north end and a pair of chest waders are required to fish this area effectively. There is no Association boat here at present. Electric engines only are permitted on the loch – no petrol engines. Spiggie fish are silvery and fight well. Average weight is about 10 ounces but there are larger fish to 2 pounds.
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.
Loch of Clumlie
Mainland, Shetland
This small loch lies a couple of miles to the east of Spiggie and is worth a few casts if you are in the area. Wading i ...
Loch of Vatsetter
Mainland, Shetland
This long, narrow loch lies close to the road half a mile south of Maywick. Good quality brown trout average 12oz with ...