Fishing at Lochinver Harbour
Sheltered working harbour on the wild Assynt coast, fishing well from the jetties for mackerel, coalfish and pollock, with bass and bigger species turning up for those prepared to fish after dark.
📍 View on the mapWhat you can catch → Full fish guide
| Species | Season | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Mackerel | Jun–Sep | Feathers fished off the harbour jetties when shoals arrive |
| Pollack (Pollock) | May–Oct | Lures worked around harbour structure and nearby rock marks |
| Coalfish (Saithe) | Autumn–winter | Feathers/small lures tight to the harbour walls |
| Flatfish (Mixed / Unspecified) | Spring–Autumn | Light bait rigs over sandy patches near the harbour |
Tactics
Fish the various harbour jetties, especially when the mackerel shoals arrive — coalfish, pollock and flatfish are a reliable back-up. No permit is needed for shore sea fishing here, and the sheltered water makes it fishable in most weather.
Best tide: Flood tide · Best time: Summer for mackerel, autumn/winter for coalfish
Dogs
No verified source. Check current signage and the relevant authority.
Access & parking
Main Street Car Park in Lochinver is a short walk from the harbour jetties. Sat-nav: IV27 4JY.Get directions → Family rating: ★★☆ — Working harbour with boat traffic, so keep young kids close to the quay edge — a judgement call.
FAQs
Do you need a permit to sea fish at Lochinver?
No, no fishing permits are required for shore sea fishing in the area.
What's the best time to fish Lochinver harbour?
Summer, especially when the mackerel shoals arrive inshore.
Is Lochinver harbour sheltered?
Yes, it's a generally sheltered spot compared to the open Assynt coast, useful in poor weather.
Nearby marks
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Last updated 16 July 2026 — sources & disclaimer
Compiled from angling guides, forums and the relevant council's dog byelaws, cross-checked where possible.
Rules and conditions change, so always check current signage and tides before you go. We do our best to keep this accurate but can't promise it's error-free.