The trout season in Shetland runs from March 15 to October 6, and sea trout from February 25 to October 31.
Permits cost just £30 and allow anglers to fish on all the lochs for the entire season. Juniors (under 16) go free. These are available from several outlets in Lerwick or directly from the Shetland Anglers Association.
There is so much choice about where to fish, that knowing where to start can be a little daunting at first. However, the Association produces a guide to over 70 lochs.
The Trout Fishing in Shetland brochure can be bought from the website, is an invaluable introductory read and will help you get your bearings. The website Let's Fish also has a comprehensive list of lochs in Shetland.
Standard loch-style trout rods between 9 and 11ft in 5-7 weights are ideal. Full floating lines will cover most eventualities though poly tips, intermediate and sinking lines may prove helpful in tougher conditions.
All standard loch-style flies will work, particularly bushy top droppers, snatchers, midge imitations and lures. Don’t be without Sedgehogs, muddled Kates, hoppers, Potty’s Palmer and Gorgeous George. Cormorants, Peter Ross, Stenness Stinger, Invictas, Pennels, beaded Hare’s Lugs and mini lures will all work on the point.
Getting to Shetland is simple with daily flights from Scottish city airports, provided by Loganair, or an overnight ferry journey from Aberdeen to Lerwick, provided by NorthLink Ferries.
A range of accommodation options can be found around the islands, with a choice of hotels, guesthouses, self-catering, camping/caravaning. Check out the wonderful places to stay, or you will find many accommodation providers listed at stay.shetland.org.