Anyone wishing an introduction to freshwater angling or wanting to learn the basic skills often asks about the availability of suitable instruction. Parents often take their children or spouses along to introduce them to angling so require this form of expertise available, giving them the opportunity to continue fishing while instruction is given. Some fisheries will, as standard, have this kind of expertise readily available, whilst others may require to bring in instructors. This service can also be available independent to fisheries. Below are some examples of how this can be available.

From fishery ghillies

A ghillie's responsibilities can vary depending on the fishery as can the quality of instruction depending on the number of years experience. Ghillies are usually only too willing to give some instruction but they do normally expect anglers to have the basic skills required. The helpfulness of a ghillie will depend on his other responsibilities for that day. If boat fishing then the ghillie will normally be with you all day, manoeuvring the boat over known fish lies, advising you on flies and so on, and providing some instruction if necessary. It is worth checking with the fishery beforehand to see what the situation is with regards to their ghillies, what service they provide as standard and what can be provided if required.

From angling guides

Angling guides are a relatively new resource in the Outer Hebrides and There is a number of qualified guides available. You can hire them to join you for the day on the fishery or on other waters they have more experience of. Qualified guides are experienced anglers and are a very good source of information and knowledge. Before asking an angling guide to join you on a fishery you should first check with the fishery that they are prepared to allow this. If they do allow fishing guides to accompany you then it’s good practice to ask them to recommend one to you. Never turn up with an angling guide without first having cleared it with the fishery.

Fishing instruction in the Hebrides

Giving advice on which flies fish best

Fly casting tuition with a qualified instructor

Pre-visit courses outside the area

Some people prefer to have had tuition before they visit the Hebrides, this will allow them to focus all their attention on fishing, taking full advantage of their trip. Ask your local tackle shop for information or for suggestions on where tuition may be available.

Useful contacts

Below is a list of qualified angling guides whose services can be invaluable, not only to the novice, but also to the adventurous angler.

* indicates members of the Western Isles Fishing Guides Association.

Angling guides
Ian Leitch SGAIC Stornoway 01851 701412	13 Maclean Terrace Stornoway Isle of Lewis Tel: 01851 701412 SGAIC qualified trout & salmon casting instructor. Individual one-to-one & group sessions catered for. Tuition in all aspects of single & double handed fly fishing techniques. Please contact me for details & rates.
Underground Stornoway 01851 703491	Experienced Guiding and tuition available call into shop on Francis St Stornoway or Telephone 01851 703491 for details.