Loch Achray

Loch Achray is a magnificent spot to find yourself fishing. You have Ben Venue to the west backlit by some of the most incredible sunsets. Pike, trout, perch, and the odd migratory fish can be caught in this 1.5 mile long loch, by any legal method. Having Loch Venachar so close peaks the interest of pike anglers wanting to know if the pike are as good on the neighbouring loch.

Nearing the furthest Westerly boundary of the Forth catchment some 25 miles in a straight line west from the brackish water of the lower River Forth at Stirling, Loch Achray sits nestled between Lochs Katrine and Venachar. Access to the loch is on the A821 over the stunning Dukes Pass road from Aberfoyle, or from Callander and Kilmahog via Brig O Turk.

The loch boundaries are limited to the still water only and there are 3 distinct sections that anglers must be aware of. The blue section is privately owned, and run on behalf of by the bailiff. It runs from the bottom of the loch to the island bay along the North shore. It is known as the “road permit”. The green section is fishable via a Forestry & Land permit, running from the bottom of the loch to the toll house on the South shore. The red section is no fishing, and is owned by Achray Hotel and the fishing is not available from the bank. Fishing from a boat, unpowered, opens up the rest of the loch to you as long as you launch from the correct shore your permit is for.

Pike, perch and wild brown trout fishing is the main focus on the loch despite there being sea trout and the occasional salmon having made the huge journey. Most anglers head to the Loch Achray rangers office which is signposted, Loch Achray campsite, on the A821 to get to the south shore of the loch. Here the water is shallow and gravel lined to then drop off to exceptionally deep water, warmed by the sun the shelf holds some good fish. Lure fishing and dead bait is regularly productive for jack pike up to 12lb’ish. The trout fishing is average at best due to recent declines in numbers as they have spread into the streams. If you are trout fishing, the usual typical loch patterns can provide some sport. It is suggested not to pike fish in April as this is the spawning season. It would be appreciated if you do not pike fish for the month. Mackerel, Blueys, Roach and Eel sections or Lamprey are proven good deadbaits. Float tubes and kayaks or canoes fishing is popular but the wind can pick up so be safe and aware. Always wear a life jacket.

One of the best serviced fishing locations in the Forth catchment area. Toilets. Easy car access. Tent camping sites galore, booking only. Fresh running water in the cabin. A small fire is permitted on the south shore as long as you bring your own fuel. Shops in Aberfoyle and Callander locally.