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Meerforelle

Sea trout run many UK and Irish rivers, although significant waterfalls block their passage, as they do not have the same remarkable leaping ability as salmon. On the mainland the most prolific sea trout rivers tend to be those with a comparatively gentle gradient.

All of these types of rivers have a tradition of angling specifically for sea trout (especially at night) notwithstanding the fact that they are also often important salmon rivers.

Where to fish

The great bastion of river angling at night for sea trout is Wales, notably the Towy (with fish of over 10lbs possible) and the Teifi; between them these two rivers have an impressive average annual catch of sewin.

Tragically one of Scotland's greatest angling assets, the sea trout fishing in the west Highlands, is a shadow of its former glory; the decline of which has coincided with the explosion of fish farming in the last 20 years. The affected area includes two of the three truly great mainland sea trout lochs: Loch Maree and Loch Stack. Both have more recently seen some tentative signs of recovery.

Another stronghold for sea trout is the Outer Hebrides, especially east Lewis, Harris and the Uists. The latter have always been primarily sea trout fisheries.

Sea trout fishing.
Sea trout fishing.

When to fish

The best river sea trout fishing in the Northern Hemisphere is from June/July onwards, with the prime months being July and August, during which nocturnal fishing is the favoured option. In the Southern Hemisphere it is from December through to March.

Methods of fishing

Fishing is now by rod and line, mostly from the river bank but also on larger rivers from boats. Sea Trout can also be caught in lakes or lochs and occasionally from estuaries. Most fishing is done using flies, but spinning is allowed on some rivers, as is the use of some forms of bait, although more rarely.

Tactics

In rivers sea trout tend to be shy and they take flies or lures much more readily at night. When night fishing it pays to inspect the water beforehand during the hours of daylight. However, it is important to leave the chosen pools well alone during the evening. Do not begin fishing until well into dusk. Cast and retrieve your flies slowly but steadily. The local tackle shop will be able to advise the best patterns.

At first try a floating line, fishing the flies just below the surface. If this is not successful, try a sinking line to achieve greater depth. A fly or lure fished on the surface creating a wake is another possibility. The essence of night fishing is stealth; disturb the water as little as possible and never shine a torch anywhere in the immediate vicinity of the river.