LLAIA Angling Newsletter – June 2026 Update
River Leven • Loch Lomond • Fruin • Endrick • Estuary
Introduction
A Promising Start to Early Summer
The past month has delivered a welcome spell of favourable angling conditions across the Lomond system. With steady rainfall, comfortable temperatures, and consistently fishable water levels, anglers have enjoyed a productive period on both river and loch.
SEPA’s 30‑day data for the River Leven at Linnbrane shows levels holding mostly between 0.55 m and 0.75 m, well within the normal range (0.361 m – 2.323 m). Although slightly lower than ideal for many salmon anglers, the river has remained fishable throughout, with short‑lived rises after rainfall providing brief surges of activity. The latest reading of 0.610 m sits firmly in the normal category and is currently falling.
Despite these good conditions, rod pressure on the Leven has remained surprisingly low — even as fish continue to enter the system on every tide.
Run Loch Lomond – 20th June.
A reminder to all River Leven anglers this run takes place annually and runners will be on the cycle path. There will be runners along the cycle path between Balloch and Bonhill Bridge between 10am and 12pm. We ask that all anglers take into account the fact that in addition to normal public users there will be runners on the towpath and therefore to take care when casting.
Membership Reminder
Full members who have not yet renewed are asked to do so immediately in order to avoid any lapse in membership status.
River Leven Water Conditions
The image opposite shows current temperature and water level of the River Leven at the Bonhill Pool, it also includes high and low tides at Bowling and water levels at Linbrane (©SEPA). For the latest water height information continue to check the LLAIA website at https://www.lochlomondangling.com/river-leven/
Additionally the current water gauge level for the River Leven at Linbrane can be obtained from SEPA by following this link https://www2.sepa.org.uk/WaterLevels/default.aspx?sd=t&lc=133107
Local information concerning tide tables can be found here http://www.ukho.gov.uk/EasyTide/easytide/ShowPrediction.aspx?PortID=0404&PredictionLength=7
River Leven – Steady Water, Steady Action
The Leven has produced some fine sport over the past few weeks:
🎣 Ross Linden landed a cracking 15 lb salmon on the worm at The Piles on 8 June. A superb fish — well done, Ross.
Angler Ross Linden with a fabulous example
🎣 Regular angler Nathan Chlosta enjoyed excellent sport on the fly, picking up several lively sea trout on the lower river near Dalreoch.
With water levels stable and fresh fish moving through, the Leven remains a rewarding option for those willing to put in the time.
Loch Lomond – Increasing Activity and Quality Fish
As conditions have steadily improved, more boats have been venturing out onto the Loch — and the results are beginning to show.
Lomond seasoned angler John East’s boat partner was in the action on 15th May landing a lovely Sea Trout of 6-7lbs approximately. Congratulations both and well done. Now is it a Sea Trout or a Brown Trout?
🎣 On 16 May, angler David Kirkwood was rewarded with a bright 2.5 lb sea trout.
🎣 On 23 May, experienced angler John East and his great‑grand nephew Adam were back in action, with Adam landing a superb 6 lb sea trout. A great effort from the young angler.
🎣 Also on 23 May, Phil Shannon landed a fine 12 lb salmon near the Boathouse Hole, followed by a handsome 2–3 lb sea trout later the same day — an impressive double. (No images available)
🎣 Moving into June, Mark Brady, fishing with Alun Pryce, landed a beautifully conditioned 8-9lb salmon approximately. Congratulations, Mark and Alun.
🎣 And on 3rd June, seasoned angler John East struck again, landing a lovely 8 lb salmon and adding a 1.5-2lb Sea Trout to round off an excellent day.
With more anglers now out on the water and the first grilse expected soon, prospects for the coming weeks look increasingly encouraging.
River Fruin
As always, the Fruin remains heavily spate‑dependent. It typically comes into its own mid‑season once meaningful rainfall arrives. For now, anglers are keeping a close eye on the weather.
River Endrick
Like the Fruin, the Endrick is waiting for its first proper summer spates. Once conditions align, we can expect the river to begin producing fish more regularly.
Estuary – Consistently Productive
The Estuary continues to be a highlight of the system, with anglers reporting steady catches of sea trout across all the usual marks. As tides and temperatures align, this area remains a reliable and enjoyable option for many members.
Looking Ahead
With water levels stable, fresh fish entering the system, and more anglers returning to the loch and river, the early summer outlook is positive. The arrival of the first grilse is eagerly anticipated, and we expect activity to build steadily across the system.
Tight lines to all our members — and please continue to share your catches, photos, and stories for future reports.
Catch and Release Best Practice
All anglers are encouraged to apply the highest standards of care when playing, landing, and releasing fish to maximise survival.
Background
The Catch and Release Best Practice project, delivered through the Wild Salmon Strategy, promotes responsible angling and reflects Scotland’s strong conservation record, with more than 95% of rod-caught salmon now released.
Further guidance, including a current catch-and-release video from Fisheries Management Scotland, is available here.
We wish all anglers every success for the weeks ahead.
