Salmon Fishing in Scotland for American Visitors

Why Fish the River Tay?

The River Tay is renowned for its abundant Atlantic salmon, scenic Highland landscapes and accessible location from Scotland’s major cities and airports. Whether you fly into Edinburgh, Glasgow or Aberdeen the Tay is easy to reach by car or train.

All the beats we use all have huts and Ghillies. The pools are all easily accessible and offer excellent wading opportunities.

The Tay has over 2000 square miles of catchment area. It’s catchment includes 162 individual water bodies including major Lochs, Loch Tay, Loch Lyon and Loch Tummel.

Major rivers feeding into the Tay are the Earn, Isla, Lyon and Tummel. The River Tay has the largest flow of any UK river, carrying more water than The Thames and The Severn together.

There is always a chance of catching a fresh bar of silver (fresh spring salmon) in January and February. These can be some of the strongest fish we see through the season because of their size. An increase in numbers come through from March with the start of the warmer weather. The summer salmon start arriving from April. As the summer unfolds and the temperatures rise and water levels fall, we start to see the arrival of the Grisle (these are younger Salmon that have spent up to three years at sea and are returning for the first time as young adults able to reproduce). Grisle tend to weigh up to 10lbs in weight, heavier than that we just call them a Salmon. The last couple of months of the season sees the larger Autumn Salmon arrive and generally at this time the number of Salmon in the system reaches it highest.

Guided Salmon Fishing with JSL Sporting Services

At JSL Sporting Services, we specialise in fully guided salmon fishing days on the River Tay. Our instruction covers everything from spey casting and fly fishing techniques to spin salmon tactics. We include all necessary gear and salmon fishing permits so you can focus on the experience.

What American Anglers Can Expect

• Expert guides with local knowledge of the Tay beats

• All equipment supplied, just bring your waterproof jacket - no need to ship rods overseas

• Opportunities for beginners and experienced salmon fishers

• Nearby accommodation recommendations in Perthshire

Travel Tips for US Visitors

• Direct flights to Edinburgh or Glasgow followed by a scenic drive to Perthshire

• Salmon fishing season runs from mid January through October — spring to late autumn offering great fishing conditions.

• Enjoy Scotland’s culture, castles, whisky distilleries and hospitality while on your fishing adventure

Book your American salmon fishing experience in Scotland today and discover why anglers from the United States return year after year.