The Langabhat catchment rises in the glens of the North Harris hills and flows northwards through the chain of four lochs, streams and rivers, known as the "Grimersta system". The Grimersta is widely regarded as one of the most prolific summer salmon systems in Europe.
Salmon, Grilse and Sea trout are to be found throughout the system during the summer months. Certain conditions on the lochs causes the fish to shoal at which times sport can be fast and furious! Boat fishing at Grimersta differs from elsewhere in both anglers fish from the stern of the boat, which is skillfully drifted by the ghillie with the bow into the wind.
Single handed 10' to 12' rods with line rated AFTM 6 to 8 are suitable although longer rods are used on the river and streams in high water conditions. A cast of two flies is traditional when fishing the lochs with the famous Blue Elver most effective on the dropper.
Fishing is by fly only, with eight rods rotating between four beats. Rods are let by the week, with changeover on a Wednesday evening. Estate Manager Chris Langhorne leads a highly experienced team of ghillies, whose services are included.
Guests stay in Grimersta Lodge which was built in 1861, and stands on the west shore of Loch Griomarstaidh, the Atlantic sea loch into which the Grimersta River flows. The lodge is fully staffed, providing breakfast, a picnic lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. There is no fishing on a Sunday and guests take the opportunity to relax over a leisurely lunch or tour the island.When fish are running guests can enjoy the wonderful sight of shoals of salmon and grilse preparing to enter the river.
The 2026 season is from 10th June - 15th October and is now fully booked. For notice of cancellations, or availability in Season 2027 please contact the Factor, Simon Scott.
Other access:
Early Season: Bank fishing is available for up to 4 Rods, at no charge, prior to 1st June. To book contact the Estate Manager, Chris Langhorne.
Loch Langabhat. Stornoway Angling Association (SAA) have permission to fish one of the Grimersta boats. Bank fishing is also available between the Scaliscro boundary at Loch Bruaiche Bheibheat, and the Soval march at Tòb Cam. Contact SAA for conditions and bookings.
Loch Faighail an Tuim (Loch One). SAA have access to the Grimersta No. 1 boat on Friday evenings from 1st June. Contact SAA for conditions and bookings.
Soval Angling Club (SAC) have access to the Grimersta No.1 boat on Loch Faighail an Tuim (Loch One), on Saturday evenings from 1st June. Contact SAC for conditions and bookings.
Loch an Fhir Mhaoil. SAA have permission to fish the Grimersta boat, and the Grimersta bank (north east/east) between the Scaliscro boundary at the March Burn and the Outlet. This loch is shared with Scaliscro Estate. Contact SAA for conditions and bookings.
