Lomond System News – 6th May 2026 – Loch Lomond Angling Improvement Association

Introduction

We are up and running with our first fish off the system!

The 2026 season has opened with favourable water levels, lower than average cool spring temperatures.

Finally we are up and running, with early highlights that include the first Lomond system Salmon from Loch Lomond on 28 April and a follow-up fish from the River Leven on 1 May, indicating that salmon are now moving through both the river and into the loch.

We were delighted to learn that Pat Millar finally opened the season on Loch Lomond with a lovely Spring Salmon taken on an orange-and-gold Rapala on 28th April, followed shortly afterwards by Scott Wallace with a fish from the River Leven.

Overall, conditions remain positive and further catches are expected as effort increases across the system.

Rod pressure has remained relatively low to date, so reported catches are likely to rise in line with increased participation over the coming weeks.

Membership Reminder

Full members who have not yet renewed are asked to do so before the end of May to avoid any lapse in membership status.

River Leven Water Conditions

The image above 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

On 1 May, Scott Wallace landed a spring salmon of approximately 11 lb near Stuckie Bridge while fishing the worm; the fish was released safely.Congratulations and well done.

Scott Wallace, 11lb Spring Salmon

Also on 1 May, Craig McKerry landed a spring salmon of around 12 lb at Top Pool while fishing the worm, Craig also reported losing a fish an hour before. Congratulations and well done. The fish was released safely.

Angkler Craig McKerry, Spring fish of. approx. 12lb

These early reports indicate that fish are present in the river and that opportunity should improve further as more anglers get onto the water.

Loch Lomond

Pat Millar recorded the first salmon of the 2026 season on 28 April with a beautifil spring fish of approximately 11 lb taken on an orange-and-gold Rapala. Congratulations and well deserved Pat.

First fish of the season, a cracking Spring fish of around 11lb for Pat Millar.

Earlier, on 21 April, John Easton landed a sea trout of around 3 lb on an orange-and-gold Rapala.

John East Sea Trout around 3lb

On 26 April, Hamish McCaig landed a sea trout of around 3 lb off Clairinch, adding to encouraging early-season loch activity.(no image)

On 28 April, John East enjoyed further success with another fine sea trout, reported at around 12 lb.

John East once more with a fine Sea Trout estimated at 12lb

Neil Easton added a notable spring salmon on 1 May, landing a fish of approximately 11 lb off Inchmurrin on a Vision 110; the catch also earned Fish of the Week recognition from Glasgow Angling Centre and the Daily Record competition.

Angler Neil Easton with a lovel 11lb Springer

River Endrick

For salmon and sea trout, the Endrick typically comes into its own from mid-summer onwards, subject to suitable water conditions.

The river can and does also produce quality brown trout, as demonstrated on 21 March when Frank Plowman landed a fish of around 3 lb on a Black Klinkhammer.

Frank Plowman with a nice early Brownie of around 3lb

River Fruin

As a spate river the Fruin will not normally start to produce reports of fish until we get some meaningful water.

Clyde Estuary

The estuary has been one of the more productive early-season venues, with sea trout reported on both fly and spinner with some notable large catches of Sea Trout reported by several anglers.

A beautiful evening on the Estuary from Max Calesso & Colin Ferguson

Nathan Chlosta has been among the most active anglers since opening day and has reported consistent success across multiple trips.

These catches underline the estuary’s continued value as an accessible and productive option in the early part of the season.

Additional reports from regular estuary anglers further reinforce the positive early-season picture.

Outlook

Fish are now present across the system and the outlook for the coming weeks is positive, with catch returns likely to strengthen as more anglers fish favourable tides and conditions.

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.