The Lochy drains the western Highlands near Fort William, flowing from Loch Lochy to the sea at Loch Linnhe. Mandatory catch-and-release applies. Declining Atlantic salmon populations are Category 3 under Scottish Government classification; every fish returned matters. A powerful spate river that rises and falls rapidly with Highland rain, it carries spring salmon from February and summer grilse from June onwards. The river fishes best on a falling flood — wait for the colour to drop and the level to settle, then cover the pools systematically with a sinking-tip line. Spring fishing (February–May) uses larger tube flies; summer grilse respond to smaller doubles and hitched tubes. The Lochy is managed through a beat system with several estates controlling access. Sea trout run from July. The river's proximity to Ben Nevis means it gets significant rainfall — check conditions before travel, and be prepared to wait for the right water. This granite-based upland river system.
- Granite