Specific Hazards Weather - The season is from February to the end of October, and there is always a risk of extreme weather conditions including flooding, ice and snow, thunder and lightning. Be aware that storms and heavy rain in the catchment above the beats can have a significant impact on water levels.
Clothing - Take suitable clothing for the weather. This should normally include a waterproof coat, leggings, headgear and specialist footwear (see below).
Take additional layers of warm clothing, and spare clothing should you get wet/fall in.
The river bed and banks may be rocky, wet, steep and uneven. Wading – If anglers choose to wade then wear suitable protective footwear for the type of fishing you are engaged in. This may include chest or thigh waders, wellingtons or robust walking boots. Be aware of the best soles for the type of river you are fishing. lf anglers choose to wade then we always recommend that life jackets are worn and wading sticks employed and do not wade more deeply than comfortable. Be particularly careful if the river bed is rocky with large and small boulders. Be aware of deep water. Be careful if the river bed is fine gravel and there are steep drop offs and keep well back from these drop offs. lf you do fall into deep water, lie on your back, point your feet in the direction of the current and allow the current to bring you back to shore. Wading can be more difficult in high and/or discoloured water.
Eye protection - Always wear eye protection, particularly whilst fly fishing, or standing in close proximity to another person fishing. Polarised sunglasses are preferred by many as they reduce surface glare.
Life jackets should be worn near water. The self inflating type is always recommended.
Weirs. There are no manmade weirs or waterfalls
Banks. The river banks are for the most part secure and firm but care has to be exercised when entering the river from the bank. Some of them have vertical drops and roots which cannot be relied upon to provide support to gain either access or egress from the river bed.
River bed. The bed is boulder strewn interspersed with a mixture of gravel, small stones, shallows, fast and slow water.
Power Lines – represent a danger of electric shock by fishing rods contacting or arcing. Care to be taken when near power lines.
Electric storms. Electric storms are potentially lethal and anglers using carbon fishing rods are at high risk of electric shock during an electric storm, particularly if they are in water. Anglers MUST stop fishing, exit the water and immediately pack up their rods at the first sign of an electric storm.
Risk assessment – Fishing tenants are asked to read the guidance notes and to conduct a personal risk assessment before and during the fishing session.
Remote areas - Whilst close to Dalmally, Glen Orchy is somewhat isolated albeit the glen road runs alongside the river for most of the beat. A rough track serves the opposite bank with restricted 4x4 vehicle access and may require some walking. The nature of the fishing involves being unaccompanied in remote areas and suitable precautions should be taken: lf "lone" fishing, leave details of location and expected return time. Carry or have access to a personal first aid kit.
Mobile phones - Whilst mobile telephones are helpful for communication and can be used in an emergency, but do not always work, particularly in remote areas. lf you are going out fishing by yourself then please leave an accurate description of your route and timings.
Personal fitness - A degree of physical fitness is required for game fishing. Please take care in accessing the fishing area
Fire - Be aware of fire risk in dry weather and avoid smoking or lighting matches.
Sunburn - Bring suntan lotion and drinking water on hot days to reduce the risk of sunburn or sunstroke.
Rights of way - Be aware of rights of way and public highways in the vicinity of the fishing area. Follow designated routes if provided. Be aware of footpaths or persons behind, particularly whist fly casting. The public are more likely to access the river from the glen road running alongside the river. Public access on the other side is limited.
Livestock – Be aware of livestock especially cows with young.
Hooks - Be careful in handling hooks and unhooking fish. Please do not discard hooks on the ground, dispose of them safely. ln the event of hooking yourself or another individual, seek medical advice immediately. Casting on windy days can increase the risk of being caught by a hook. Never discard fishing line on the bank, dispose of it responsibly. Fishing line can be hazardous to other individuals and wildlife.
Hats - Hats should always be worn whilst fishing to protect from weather and hooks. On sunny days they will reduce the risk of sunstroke. The reflection of water can multiply the effects of the sun's rays, particularly whilst wading.
Midges- Midges can cause discomfort, particularly in early morning/evenings. Repellent should be applied to exposed skin as appropriate. Consider a head net for additional protection. lf you have sensitive eyes, take eye wash/lotion with you.
Tick bites - Be aware of the health hazard resulting from Tick bites. Tick borne diseases such as Lyme disease are on the increase. Bracken is a good host for ticks and the best protection is to avoid being bitten. Exposed skin should be treated with insect repellent. After fishing check yourself carefully for ticks. lf you find a tick be aware of the best means of removal. lf in doubt seek medical advice. If a rash appears after tick removal, seek medical advice immediately.
Access - Please follow instructions clearly when going from beat/fishing area to another and park in the correct place. Do not drive off-road or track. Ensure that the vehicle is fit for purpose, and the driver has sufficient level of experience to drive on the chosen route. Do not attempt to ford the river.
Reporting incidents - Anglers are asked to report any incidents or hazardous situations.
Disclaimer The owner accepts no liability howsoever caused for any loss or damage to personal property, or for any accident, injury or death involving anglers or members of the general public. It is incumbent on all anglers to have their own personal all risks insurance in place. This can be arranged through membership of various sporting organisations and national angling bodies, such as the BASC, NGO, SGA, CLA, CA, and Salmon & Trout Association.
