Magnificent Loch Eck just over 6 miles long and 67 feet above sea level, scythes through the centre of the Cowal Peninsula, surrounded by high, forested hills.

The loch epitomises Cowal - rugged and spectacular but at the same time peaceful, where you can while away the hours, and with our own private beach, our motor / rowing boats are always ready to go exploring. We are the only place on the Loch that offers people the opportunity to hire a boat and explore this very special spot.

During the summer months our boats are often booked up, so it is always advisable to pre-book.  We use large open clinker style boats that seat 8 people comfortably. If hiring a motor boat, the engines are small outboards with tiller controls, so even if you have never used a boat before, you can be assured that after you are given full tuition and buoyancy aids, you will be more than capable of exploring the beauty of the Loch from the tranquillity of the water.

Loch Eck has many many small beaches along its shore lines, so you may even want to moor up and explore some of the forest and hills accessible only by boat.

We are a small business established in 2006 and the only locally owned and run boat trip operation in the Kyles of Bute. We operate the converted Motor Fishing Vessel Morag from the Pier in Tighnabruaich, Cowal Peninsula, Argyll.

Our trips cater for holidaymakers, friends of locals or people staying in the area and can be tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. There are regular set departures times or you can book to charter the whole boat for periods of one hour.

The Morag can accommodate 10 passengers and the trips invariably capture the spectacular views of the area from the sea, and give fantastic close up opportunities to see seals, porpoises, and many sea birds that inhabit the Kyles of Bute. A commentary on local history and folklore is provided.

Boats can be launched at Inver Cottage for sea fishing in Loch Fyne. Inver cottage is only 5 minutes drive from the Castle itself and has ample parking facilities and provides the perfect situation to launch your boat. Species caught in Loch Fyne include cod, pollack, coalfish, conger, plaice, turbot, mackerel and ling.

After a long day fishing on the loch, nothing is more rewarding than a fine meal at the award winning restaurant overlooking the loch and Old Castle Lachlan itself.

Trout fishing around Dunoon can be arranged through Purdies fishing tackle shop in Dunoon.

We are very fortunate in the Dunoon and Cowal area to have some superb fishing in close proximity all of which is located in an area of stunning natural beauty.

There are a variety of angling opportunities available.  From running to stillwater, Rainbow Trout to Salmon.  It's all there and waiting for your visit...

 All of the waters listed are managed by the Dunoon and District Angling Club (DDAC).  DDAC is a friendly local club with an emphasis on providing quality fishing in a relaxing environment.  The club and its members are very hardworking and knowledgeable.  Regular working parties are held to improve banksides, clean litter and improve spawning habitats.  You will find that club members are very approachable and helpful.

Fishing on all DDAC waters is via permit only.  For more information regarding permit prices and details, please view the Permits & Tackle link above.

Stillwaters

Dunoon Reservoir - A 5 acre reservoir situated in natural woodland near to Dunoon.  Stocked with hard fighting Rainbow Trout of a good average size.  Fly fishing only.  There are a limited number of daily permits.  Pre-booking is advisable.

Loch Loskin - A 6 acre lochan located on the A885 Sandbank Road just outside of Dunoon.  Stocked with high quality Brown Trout which supplement indigenous wild fish.  Occasional Sea Trout are present in the loch later in the season.  Fly fishing by boat (3 available) only.

Loch Tarsan - A 273 acre upland loch situated by the side of the B838 which is a short drive from Dunoon.  Stocked with quality Brown Trout of a generous average size which respond to a variety of methods.  There is an abundance of bank fishing available or the choice of 4 boats available to hire for traditional loch style fishing in superb scenery.

Rivers

River Massan - A tributary of the River Echaig located in the scenic Massan Valley.  The river provides a variety of pools, glides, broken water, gorges and falls for the angler.  There is a healthy population of Brown Trout present.  Salmon and Sea Trout are also present in the system from June onwards during spate conditions.  Challenging fly fishing with worm and spinning also permitted.

River Cur - DDAC have access to a pleasant stretch of this river located at the northern end of Loch Eck just to the side of the A815.  Tree lined pools and glides containing some lovely Brown Trout provide consistent sport.  Sea Trout and occasional Salmon are also present in this stretch of river from June onwards following favourable weather conditions.  Fly fishing highly recommended.  Worm and spinning also permitted.

River Finnart - A lovely small spate river that runs into Loch Long near Ardentinny.  Good fishing exists with some fine pools and runs from the Estuary up to the Warden's markers.  Fishing with a fly is challenging due to overhanging trees and bank side vegetation in some areas.  There is a good population of native wild Brown Trout.  This river also has good runs of Sea Trout and occasional Salmon following summer rain.  Fly fishing, worm and spinning permitted.

River Ruel - A super stretch of this fine river is available for fly fishing which is situated approximately 20 miles from Dunoon.  Fishy, foamy pools and slow deep runs await anglers who make the trip over to Glendaruel.  The river offers a good chance of a Sea Trout or Salmon to a carefully presented fly in the right conditions in late Summer or early Autumn.  Migratory fish runs on this river are now improving after lengthy, dedicated conservation work carried out by local bailiffs and club members.  If the migratory species do not respond, then you can target the Brownies with a dry fly! Fly fishing only.