The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park contains 22 lochs, below are 14 of the main lochs. From the world famous Loch Lomond to the smaller and equally impressive Loch Chon in the Trossachs. The National Park also contains Scotland’s only Lake, the Lake of Menteith which lies between Aberfoyle and The Port of Menteith.
The Lochs in the Trossachs offer a great range of activities either on the water or nearby. We have listed activity providers who offer facilities and a link to their website for further information. Fishing is permitted on many lochs and permits are required for most of the lochs and we have also provided a link to where a permit can be obtained. Some Lochs allow watersports, power boating and skiing.
If you want to sail or boat watch then Loch Fyne, Scotland’s Longest Sea Loch is a must visit! 40 miles long, Loch Fyne stretches past historic Inveraray, past the Portavdie Marina then out to the Kyles of Bute.
Known as ‘Argyll’s Secret Coast’ Loch Fyne is renowned for it’s spectacular scenery and wildlife and is a haven for outdoor activity enthusiasts and lovers of great food. Cycling, Sailing, Walking, Kayaking, Fishing and Golf are all available around Loch Fyne. A great Ferry Trip is from Portavadie to the town of Tarbert where you can also explore the Crinan Canal, the gateway to the Western Isles.
Fishing In the Lochs
No matter where you are in the park, you are never far away from a loch or river offering you perfect fishing possibilities. The National Park is divided into 4 different regions: Loch Lomond, Trossachs, Breadalbane and Argyll. Even though Loch Lomond has one of the largest variety of fish in the National Park, there are many more lochs and rivers in other beautiful and tranquil settings. Argyll has large sea lochs such as Loch Goil, Loch Fyne and Loch Long, all offering their own species of fish including trout, salmon, mackerel, pollack, cod whiting etc. Some of the Typical fish found in the inland Lochs across Breadalbane and the Trossachs are trout, salmon and pike perch. Rivers including the River Forth, Earn, Endrick, Dochart and many more are fantastic for fishing. For more fishing information in the National Park please visit the fishing pages and if you want to know where you can buy fishing permits and which fish species you can find in the lochs please have a look at the lochs and rivers table.
Lochs Suitable for Watersports
For those who prefer some more action, there are lochs in the National Park which are suitable for watersports. However, only on certain lochs is it permitted to use boats or surf equipment. The most popular place for watersports is Loch Lomond where you can do wakeboarding, canoeing, kayaking or rent a boat. If you want you can also bring your own boat and launch it at the public slipway in Balloch.
Another popular loch for watersports is Loch Earn. For those interested in inland sailing, Loch Venachar has a good sailing club.
If you would like to learn to sail on the sea and obtain a RYA certification then the sailing school at Rosneath Castle near Helensburgh offers courses for all ages at discounted prices.
For more information about watersports in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park visit the watersports page.
Links to the Lochs in The Trossachs
Click on the links for more information about the Lochs in the Trossachs and Loch Lomond National Park.
Safety on the Water
The weather and wind can change suddenly on Scotland’s lochs so always observe the rules of the water and ensure you are wearing the proper safety equipment and clothing at all times when engaged in water sports.