Durness Youth Hostel

Gone Fishing

by scottishvisitor

River and Loch fishing make up a large part of the economy in Sutherland. It is worth £3.73 million per year and supports eighty six full time jobs. Notices were obvious in many areas warning of Gyrodactylus salaris, a small parasite which has killed numerous fish in Europe. Careful steps have been taken here to ensure it doesn't enter Scottish waters. If you have recently been fishing abroad you will not be allowed to use your fishing equipment here. All fishers must sign a declaration stating where they last fished. Fishing is by permit only and these can be obtained from local hotels or post offices. Angling for salmon, sea trout and brown trout is by fly fishing only. Most fishing is 'catch and release' this all helps to preserve stocks. Many of the country house hotels and the sporting estates offer holiday breaks which cater well for fishing folk. You will need a salmon rod, various flies, a net as well as waterproof clothing. If you are river fishing you will also require waist high wadders.

Lairg stuck in the middle with you

by scottishvisitor

"A perfect base to explore Sutherland East or West"

We stayed a little way out from Lairg at Invershin but the little village soon felt like home. It was here we shopped for everyday things. We drove through the village many times and visited the local attractions. Positioned almost in the middle of Sutherland, Lairg served as a good base to travel East or West and even up to the far North Coast at the very top of Scotland. Every morning we eagerly watched the weather forcast to see what was the best location for a day trip. East or West = Well West is best no matter the weather.

"We did hope to encounter some wildlife"

The deer which we had encountered during our visit at Easter during a late wintery season were long gone to the mountains and hills. The adorable Highland Cows were a scenic replacement.

"Magestic Mountains framed with wild grasses"

You have to travel many miles around here to get anywhere but one thing you will notice is there is serene beauty around every bend in the road.