Fishing Loch nan Cadhan in Argyll and Bute, Scotland

• Overview

  Loch nan Cadhan is an Argyll and Bute water, in Scotland. This is rolling hill country. This is a pocket water of some 11 acres, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. Start from Isle of Islay, 4.5 miles down the road. Tarbert follows at 28 miles, then Ardrishaig at 30 miles. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Loch nan Cadhan

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. Species logged across Argyll and Bute include brown trout, European eel, Atlantic salmon, pollack and Atlantic cod. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. Anyone new to Loch nan Cadhan should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July is the warm end of the year here, averaging about 14°C, while February sits near 5°C. Mild ends to the year keep the season long. Cover comes and goes, so treat it with suspicion rather than trust. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. It holds true on Loch nan Cadhan more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. The nearest car park we can see is half a mile out, so expect a walk with your gear. For the trout, small spinners and a box of nymphs cover both approaches. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Loch Ballygrant sits 0.4 miles off and takes the overflow. Check the position on Loch nan Cadhan before loading the car.