Central Scotland Fishing Holidays

Salmon Fishing On The River Tay

The River Tay system is the largest river system in Scotland, a vast network of water that lures anglers from all over the world. The River Tay system begins its journey in the mountains west of Loch Tay. The system gathers strength through a multitude of burns and small rivers that flow through lochs and then form the mighty River Tay. As the river travels east toward the North Sea, the Tay is joined by its tributaries, the Tummel, Lyon, Isla, Dochart, and Garry. Each of these tributaries has its own character and its own fishing opportunities. The River Tay is also part of the “Big 4in4 Challenge” (alongside the Dee, Spey and Tweed)

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Loch Tay Middle Tay Lower Tay River Tummel River Lyon Tay Tributaries View Packages

Loch Tay

Discover Salmon Fishing on Loch Tay

Loch Tay plays an important role in this system. The Loch acts like a basin, collecting the upland waters and regulates the flow that eventually becomes the main River Tay. The loch is fed by the Rivers Dochart and Lochay at Killin. Fishing the loch is generally by boat, trolling the water. The best time to fish the loch is during the spring months. The springers (spring salmon) run hard up the main river to Loch Tay, where they find refuge in the loch's sheer depth. Lures that do well on the Loch include Vision 110’s, Rapalas and Spoons.

Below Loch Tay, the river becomes the River Tay in its own right. Some of the upper River Tay beats near Kenmore and Aberfeldy offer excellent wading, classic fly water, and gentle runs. The current on the upper Tay is much calmer compared to the middle and lower reaches of the river.

Middle Tay

Middle Tay Salmon Fishing

Moving downstream, the middle river begins to show the sheer power of the mighty River Tay, starts to widen and the current starts to pick up pace. The middle river offers a mixture of fishing from the bank and the boat. When wading from the bank, generally a 14-15ft double-handed Spey rod is required to cover the pools effectively when fly fishing. When spinning, a rod of 9-11ft will be adequate. When fishing from the boat, you can choose to either fly fish or spin. Another method, which is unique to `the River Tay, is harling. This is when the ghille/boatman puts 3-4 rods out of the boat and harl’s from one side of the river to the other. The middle beats offer prime fishing throughout the season, with spring salmon passing through on their way to the upper reaches, followed by the famous grilse run that appears in late May or early June.

Take a Look at Our Latest Fly Fishing Packages in Central Scotland

Escape to the heart of Scotland and discover fishing the way it was meant to be. From quiet lochs to winding rivers, Central Scotland offers unforgettable angling set against dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife and welcoming local hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or casting for the first time, your perfect fishing holiday starts here.

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Spring Salmon Fishing Safari 2026

Scottish Spring Salmon Fishing Safari 2026 offers anglers the chance to experience world-class salmon fishing on the Thurso, Spey, or Tay rivers during the prime spring season. This tailored package combines thrilling fishing with hand-picked riverside accommodation in stunning Scottish settings.

4 Days Nationwide

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River Tay & Taymount Cottage Spring Salmon Fishing

Enjoy a three-night stay in a riverside cottage with two full days of guided salmon fishing on the private Taymount Beat of the River Tay. The package includes accommodation, fishing permits, tackle, and expert guide support for an authentic Scottish angling experience.

3 Days Perthshire

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Scottish Salmon Fishing & Golfing Package

Experience the ultimate Scottish adventure with our combined salmon fishing and golf package, offering world-class fishing on the River Tay and rounds on Scotland’s most iconic courses. Stay in the charming village of Dunkeld for a truly authentic and unforgettable sporting getaway.

5 Days Central Scotland

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Father & Son Fishing Trips

The Father & Son Fishing Trip in Scotland offers a guided salmon fishing experience on the River Tay, with expert tuition, luxury accommodation, and the option to include a round of golf. It’s designed as a memorable bonding holiday combining outdoor adventure and relaxation.

3 Days Perthshire

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Chasing Scottish Golds and Rainbows Tour

A tranquil 2-day guided trout fishing trip in remote Perthshire, targeting both wild brown and rainbow trout from private hill lochs, with 3 nights’ stay in the charming Atholl Arms Hotel in Dunkeld.

3 Days Perthshire

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Lower Tay

Lower Tay Salmon Fishing

The lower Tay, closer to Perth, becomes even wider and some lower beats are tidal. This is where the river begins its final push to the sea, and as a result, this stretch can be extremely productive in the summer and autumn months. Beats such as Islamouth, Cargill, Benchil, and Fishponds offer some of the most productive fishing in Scotland. The lower river is deep and fast and often fishing is by boat. For many, the lower Tay offers some of the most exciting and dramatic fishing throughout the entire system.

River Tummel

Salmon Fishing on The River Tummel

Beyond the main Tay, its tributaries add another layer of charm to the fishing. The River Tummel enters the Tay at Pitlochry. The River Tummel runs through gorges and offers classical fly water and narrow runs. The hydro dam situated in Pitlochry offers the rare sight of seeing salmon ascending through the fish ladder. The Tummel is well-known for its spring and summer fishing, with fish often holding in its pools on their journey to the upper Tay system.

River Lyon

Salmon Fishing River Lyon

The River Lyon enters the system upstream of Aberfeldy and offers solitude and classical Highland scenery. Glen Lyon, through which the river flows, is one of the most dramatic glens in Scotland. The Lyon offers a small river fishing experience in stunning surroundings.

Salmon run the Lyon in summer and autumn, and a single-handed trout rod or switch rod is all that is required on this intimate river. Flies like the Silver Stoat, Willie Gunn and Red and Black Francis tend to do exceptionally well.

Isla, Dochart and River Garry

Tay Tributaries

Other tributaries, such as the Isla, Dochart, and Garry, all play a role in this mighty system. The Isla is generally much slower than the other tributaries and produces salmon and sea trout in late summer and autumn. The River Dochart, which flows from Loch Tay and starts its journey beneath the Falls of Dochart at Killin, offers exceptional early spring fishing. The River Garry is known for its spectacular scenery and strong currents. Fishing the Garry in spring and summer can be excellent when conditions align.

Travel & Salmon Fishing Experiences in Central Scotland

Fishing Holidays Near Perth, Dunkeld & Pitlochry

Perthshire is a region that offers outstanding beauty. While it is famed for its salmon rivers and generations of sporting tradition, Perthshire offers far more than just angling and field sports. For non-anglers, Perthshire is an outstanding destination, rich in history, culture, jaw-dropping landscapes and magnificent gardens. From palaces and quaint towns to whisky distilleries and woodland walks.

The city of Perth, sometimes overlooked by visitors who are travelling north, is an excellent starting point for discovering the area. Perth combines a wealth of historical buildings, cultural attractions, Museums, galleries, and sits alongside the River Tay.

Perthshire is a destination that offers something for everyone. For non-anglers, it delivers a diverse mix of culture, history, gardens and scenery. From the royal legacy of Scone Palace to Aberfeldy Distillery, from woodland walks to formal gardens, and from cultural towns to Perthshire's famous rivers, Perthshire proves that its appeal extends far beyond its famous rivers. It is a place where visitors can relax, explore and make lasting memories.

Scone Palace

Just outside of Perth lies one of Scotland’s most important historic sites: Scone Palace. For visitors interested in history, Scone Palace should not be missed. Once the crowning place of Scotland’s kings, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce, Scone Palace is steeped in history. The richly furnished rooms offer an insight into centuries of aristocratic life.

The palace gardens are a highlight in their own right. You can admire ancient trees, wander through parkland and explore the famous star-shaped maze. The sense of heritage and space makes Scone Palace an experience that appeals to garden enthusiasts, history lovers, and casual visitors alike.

Dunkeld

North of Perth, the villages of Dunkeld and Birnam sit on opposite banks of the River Tay and offer a blend of history and nature. Dunkeld Cathedral, partly ruined yet still in use, stands beside the river in a setting of great tranquillity. Its age, architecture, and location make it one of the most atmospheric religious sites in Scotland.

Across the bridge, Birnam is closely linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the legendary Birnam Wood. Nearby, the Hermitage is one of Perthshire’s most celebrated attractions. This majestic walk takes you along woodland paths, through towering Douglas firs and waterfalls, and finishes at Osian’s Cave, which offers a magnificent viewpoint. For non-anglers, it is an ideal introduction to Highland scenery without requiring strenuous hiking.

Pitlochry

Pitlochry is one of Perthshire’s most popular visitor towns and offers a combination of stunning scenery and culture. A trip to Pitlochry Festival Theatre is a must, as it hosts theatre, literary events, and music throughout the year.

Gentle walks along the River Tummel and through the forest offer the visitor time to enjoy the landscape at their own pace.

The town itself is full of independent shops, cafés, and galleries, making it a pleasant place to spend time while others are out on the river. In autumn, Pitlochry becomes striking as the forests turn from vibrant greens to shades of red, gold and copper.

Aberfeldy

North of Pitlochry, Aberfeldy combines small-town charm with access to some of Perthshire’s most scenic and cultural attractions. The Birks of Aberfeldy, immortalised by Robert Burns, is a favourite walk for non-anglers, offering waterfalls, woodland paths, and poetic associations without being strenuous.

Just outside the town sits Aberfeldy Distillery, a must-visit for those interested in Scottish food and drink rather than fishing. The Aberfeldy Distillery Experience offers insight into the craftsmanship, history, and flavour, while the tasting experience introduces visitors to the character of Highland whisky in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Nearby, Castle Menzies offers an insight into traditional Highland architecture and clan history.

Crieff

Crieff sits at the southern edge of Highland Perthshire and is an excellent option for non-anglers. This quaint town has a long history as a spa and market centre and offers a multitude of independent shops and tearooms.

A short drive away is Drummond Castle and Gardens, which is widely regarded as one of the finest gardens in Europe.

Their seasonal planting, symmetrical designs and elevated views across Strathearn provide a striking contrast to Perthshire’s much wilder landscapes. For non-anglers, the gardens offer beauty and colour, making Drummond Castle one of the region’s most outstanding attractions.

Blair Atholl

Beneath the mountains of Ben Lawers, Loch Tay stretches for over 20 miles, offering some of Perthshire’s most dramatic scenery. At the loch's most eastern end lies the village of Kenmore, known for its whitewashed cottages and peaceful setting. Non-anglers can enjoy Lochside walks, scenic picnics, and boat trips that focus on views rather than fishing. The area is rich in cultural and natural history. Visitors can learn about ancient settlements, local wildlife, and traditional Highland life.

Blair Castle, situated in Blair Atholl, is one of Scotland’s most famous historic houses and a must-visit for any history enthusiasts. Blair Atholl, with its distinctive white façade, boasts an extensive collection of artefacts and offers beautifully maintained grounds. Diana’s Grove, with its ancient trees, woodland walks, and surrounding gardens, offers a tranquil setting for exploration.