Ness - Tackle and flies

Tackle advice

The tackle you decide to use will depend on the time of year and height of water. Generally speaking, a 15ft rod will cover all eventualities on the system throughout the year, as the rivers tend to be on the large side.

In times of low water 13-14ft rods may make fishing a little more pleasurable.

Regarding lines, it is generally accepted that a floating line with a range of sink tips or an intermediate line will see you through most conditions through the season. None of the rivers on the system have any extreme depth and certainly on the River Ness, the water temperature does not vary that much, with Loch Ness having the mass it does.

Spinning on occasions can be an option on some of the system. 10ft rods with 15-18lb nylon will be adequate. The Black and orange minnow is a favourite on the River Ness, taking many a large salmon over the years.

Chest waders will be required to cover most rivers on the system. It is worth noting that many beats require anglers to wear a life jacket whilst fishing. Jackets are often provided, but it is always advisable to bring your own just in case.

Again fly choice will depend on the time of year. In the spring and autumn weighted tube flies may be required, but if the water is low, flies tied on larger doubles or trebles will be sufficient. In summer bring doubles and trebles down to a size 12 or even smaller on some tributaries. Flies such as the black shrimp and the nessc were devised on the River Ness, and often prove to be the anglers choice regardless of the season.

Hiring/buying Tackle

Visiting and local anglers are able to purchase tackle from the many local tackle shops in and around Inverness, the Black Isle, Beauly and Forres as well as mail order outlets.

Tackle shops

Grahams of Inverness

Grahams is a piscatorial treasure trove in an area rich in angling resources. Founded in 1857, Grahams has gained a far-reaching reputation for quality and service by meeting the exacting demands of expert highland anglers for all that is best in tackle for loch, river and sea.

Grahams of Inverness 37-39 Castle Street,Inverness,IV2 3DU

Tel 01463 233178

For the website Click here 

Flies

Fly choice will depend on the time of year.

In the spring and autumn weighted tube flies may be required, but if the water is low, flies tied on larger doubles or trebles will be sufficient.

In summer bring doubles and trebles down to a size 12 or even smaller on some tributaries.

Flies such as the black shrimp and the nessc were devised on the River Ness, and often prove to be the anglers choice regardless of the season.

Loch Ness in Mist.

Seatrout Flies

Salmon Flies

Trout Flies.

Autumn salmon flies