One of the planet's most popular sports is fishing. While many fish for food or profit a great many folk enjoy the sport for the pure pleasure and excitement. Fishing is not just a line, a rod and a reel, no, there are a great many different aspects to the sport and one of the most interesting is the style known as fly fishing. There are a few excellent fly fishing resorts in various parts of the world with Alaska and Scotland being especially noteworthy but even in a small river there could be interesting challenges and excellent sport to be had.
Fly fishing is one of the few sports which is able to be enjoyed by virtually all sectors of society from the very youngest beginner to the full on professional angler who has been perfecting his skills for many years. Another reason why the sport is so incredibly popular is that the best fishing opportunities are usually to be had in areas which have the most spectacular scenery and wildlife. Many who indulge in fly fishing are willing to rise very early in the morning and while this may afford them the best fishing it is also the best time of the day to enjoy the views and the native wildlife.
In Scotland it is not rare to find yourself on the banks of a beautiful river surrounded by picture postcard scenes. Early in the morning it is common to come face to face with deer, stags and other creatures. Otters are creatures of habit and if you happen to be fishing near one of their runs you may witness an otter or two playing in the water (not so good for the fishing but a wonderful sight all the same!).
When fly fishing in Scotland you are able to choose from a number of world class locations which include the famous rivers of the Tay and Spey. Besides these there are plenty of other salmon runs and too many lochs of all different sizes in which to fish for other species such as rainbow and brown trout. grayling and pike.
When planning a vacation in Scotland and if you are planning to spend some time fly fishing it is often best to book a special fly fishing vacation package as most places are for private fishing only. It is possible to purchase a very reasonably priced day permit for the vast majority of sites but it is far better to book a hotel in Scotland that has it's own fishing rights to a local loch or nearby salmon run or one of the many other packages available. At the very least arrange your fishing before you arrive or enquire where to gain a permit.
Fly fishing vacation packages in Scotland are superbly organized and can be all inclusive or styled to your requirements. If there are a group of you going on the trip such packages are perfect and include such things as suitably experienced gillies. Employing a quality gillie is often the sole key to success as he should know the best spots and the most suitable flies and other tackle to use at any chosen location. Such advice is truly priceless.
If you have not indulged in fly fishing or you are relatively new to the sport nothing could be better than taking a vacation in Scotland and getting a little training from an A.P.G.A.I. qualified instructor. Advanced Pro Game Angling Instructors are suitably qualified and experienced enough to educate both beginner and even those who have been fishing for many years.
When planning a fishing vacation to Scotland you may find it difficult to choose where to stay. Many choose to stay in hotels or other lodgings near to the Spey or Tay however there are a great many other places with superb fishing opportunities and wonderful scenery. One of the more unusual places, but popular with anglers, is the group of islands off the west coast of Scotland known as the Outer Hebrides or the Western Isles where the waters are crystal clear and often well stocked.