Rod Licences
Unlike England and Wales there is no national rod
licence in Scotland. In England and Wales an angler
needs to get a licence issued by the Environment Agency
as well as permission from the owner of the fishings.
In Scotland anglers need only to be be in possession
of a "written right or permission" from
the land owner.
Salmon and Sea Trout
This is an absolute must if you are fishing for migratory
fish (salmon and sea trout). The law is very strict
and waters are watched by Water Bailifs who have considerable
powers. Don't risk it!
Brown Trout and Coarse Fish
The requirement to carry a permit if you are fishing
for brown trout and coarse fish is a little more complicated.
It depends on whether the water is covered by a "Protection
Order". Most of the Tay catchment is protected
including the main stem of the Tay, Loch Tay, Lyon,
Dochart, Fillan, Connonish, Lochay, Braan, Almond,
Tummel and Earn. Protection orders do not extend into
tidal waters, so there is free fishing below Perth.
Sea Fish
No permit is required for sport angling at sea.
