Fishing

The word Bradan translates to "salmon" in Gaelic, making it no surprise that fishing is deeply woven into the identity of our quiet corner of the Western Highlands. Whether you are hoping to cast a line on our private river beat or explore the surrounding lochs, there are fantastic opportunities within a short walk or quick drive of your lodge.

Fishing around Bradan Lodges falls into two main categories, each with its own guidelines:

1. Fishing the River Add: Our Private Beat

Julia and Edward, owners of Bradan Lodges, own an exclusive stretch of the River Add, known as a beat, which extends for one mile down the glen road towards Bridgend.

Season & Permits:

• Season: February 16th – October 31st

• Sunday Rule: No fishing is permitted on Sundays.

• Permits: Guests staying at Bradan Lodges do not need a separate license or permit to fish our private stretch during the open season.

Understanding the Spate River

The River Add is a spate river ie a fast-responding watercourse whose flow relies on heavy rainfall rather than ground springs and meltwater. This type of river is common on the West Coast of Scotland, and after a good downfall occurs, the fresh surge of water prompts salmon to swim upstream and become active, creating an exciting window for salmon fishing.

What You Can Catch

• Salmon: All salmon fishing on our beat operates on a strict catch-and-release policy in  accordance with the protected status of wild salmon in Scotland. Please handle any salmon gently and return them safely to the water.

• Brown Trout: The river’s wild brown trout population is far more consistent and less dependent on spate conditions. You are much more likely to hook brown trout during your stay. Like the salmon, these are also strictly catch-and-release on our beat.

Catch Returns: We are happy to allow guests to fish on our river for free. In return, we would love it if you could let us know if you catch anything during your stay. We submit annual reports to local environmental monitoring bodies, therefore this information is very helpful. 

How to Find Our Accessible River Access Point

Much of our beat features steep banks and dense undergrowth, but we do have an easily accessible fishing spot just a short distance from the lodges.  Guests can find out details in our fishing guide when they book a stay with us.

2. Loch Fishing in the Surrounding Area of Argyll

If you fancy exploring the nearby lochs, the experience is different and managed by the Lochgilphead and District Angling Club.

Season & Permits:

• Loch Season: March 15th – October 6th

• Permits: Required prior to fishing. You can purchase permits directly from Fyne Tackle in Lochgilphead.

Permit Rates:

• Day Permit: £10

• 3-Day Permit: £20

• 1-Week Permit: £30

Local Advice & Fishing Guides

For up-to-date advice on which lochs are performing best, drop by Fyne Tackle (48 Argyll Street, Lochgilphead, PA31 8NE / 01546 606878). Their website can also be found at www.fyne-tackle.co.uk

If you would like a local guide to accompany you on the lochs, contact Julia directly when you have booked and she will help arrange it.