Sandy Loch

Water managed by Shetland Anglers Association

Type

Lake

Species

Brown trout

Directions

Conditions

High alkalinity

Very shallow

Low shoreline complexity

Low elevation

Small

OS Map: 466 – Explorer

HU 44991 40305

About this water

Sandy Loch is a small, very shallow reservoir of roughly 42 hectares, lying close to the coast in the low ground of the Shetland Islands. Despite its high alkalinity, the catchment is dominated by peat, and the water is correspondingly dark. The shoreline is broadly simple in outline, with a fetch of just over a kilometre across the open water.

The reservoir serves as the public water supply for Lerwick. The trout run small and dark, coloured by the peaty water, and wading is not recommended — the bottom is treacherous in places and best left well alone.

A track runs from the main road along the east and north shores, making the water straightforward to reach and fish from the bank.

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.