5 year average catch 69 salmon and grilse
& 25 sea trout
550m double bank fishing
8 named pools/runs
Maximum 3 rods
Full time ghillie, well-equipped fishing
cabin and 2 boats
Good access and easy wading
Description
The Ness is a river of only six miles in length,
draining the renowned loch of the same name and a vast hinterland
of Highland territory. The clear water, steady flow and
excellent gravelly bed all combine to make this a highly
productive river.
Salmon run the Ness throughout the year, a
fact recognised even in the nineteenth century when the
Ness opened for ‘spring’ fishing on 14 November.
The rod fishing now opens on 15 January and closes on 15
October.
The Laggan beat is in a delightful, secluded
situation, affording very limited public access. Many experienced
anglers have commented that they know of no more beautiful
a setting in which to fish. The fishings, which extend to
some 550 metres in length, are double bank. An island in
the upper part of the beat creates two streams which both
provide excellent fishing.
The water is fished both by wading and from
the boat. Wading, which for the most part is fairly easy,
is primarily from the right bank or from either side of
the island. Liz’s Cast, the New Pool and the Island
Pool have produced significant numbers of fish in recent
seasons.
Fresh fish run throughout the year. However,
the most productive period is from early July until the
season ends in mid-October.
The beat offers superb fly fishing and the
majority of fish are so taken. The Silver Stoat and Yellow
Ally are popular and effective patterns.
In recent years, numerous improvements to
the holding capacity of the beat have been carried out.
A
conservation code is in place in order to protect and enhance
stocks. For the 2007 season, anglers must return throughout
the season the 1st, 3rd, 5th, etc. salmon caught. All hen
salmon must be returned throughout the season. Thus the
only fish which may be retained are cock fish which are
the 2nd, 4th, 6th, etc. fish caught. In addition, all hooks
must be crimped or barbless.
A well-equipped fishing cabin is provided
as are two boats which offer rods the opportunity to cover
water less easily reached by wading. There is good vehicular
access to the fishings.
The ghillie, a keen and experienced fisher,
not only advises and generally assists the rods, but also
works to keep the beat looking at its best.
