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Assynt and Angling History

Fishing has been part and parcel of life in Assynt for millennia and recreational has been done here for centuries. There are written records of fishing dating back to John Home’s Survey of Assynt in 1774 (although this refers mostly to the herring fishing). Accounts of recreational angling exist as far back as the 1850s (at least) and there is a rich cultural history of angling, both within the local population and from the many visitors who have come to the area since the 1800s.

We have collated historical accounts, records and other artifacts relating to angling. Some of that is available online through the links below.

We are also keen to unearth new evidence, records and accounts of angling in Assynt. If you have anything - books, references, pictures, angling records or even memories - that relates to angling right up to the present day, we would love to here from you. Please contact us anglingresearch[at]substance.net.

Archive – angling records, leaflets and ancient maps of Assynt.

Film – clips of fly fishing and salmon net fishermen in the 1950s.

Literature – Read accounts of angling in Assynt as far back as 1850!

Latest comments
1 week ago
Admin said
Good stuff Phillip - especially for this time of year. Evenings always seem better there (I'm just up the road). Thanks for...
1 week ago
Philip Bodie said
I had heard that this loch can be dour and difficult but was on holiday 5 minutes away so thought I would give it an end...
3 weeks ago
Admin said
Thanks Russell    The Assynt Angling Group don't do online permits unfortunately. You could try ringing Mackays...
3 weeks ago
Russell Bain said
  I'll be canoeing on Loch Assynt next week and a little fly fishing for trout. Is there anywhere I can buy the permit...
3 weeks ago
Anonymous said
Nice! Those Savage gear lures seem to do well - my cousin's boy caught a bass from Clashnessie using a shad one. Must get...