Devon Angling Association

Devon Angling Association controls around 15 miles of the River Devon, from below Castlehill Reservoir in Glendevon to the road bridge at Menstrie. It is a wild and highly varied fishery, flowing from upper streamy water through attractive middle reaches and dramatic gorge sections before slowing into deeper lower-river pools. The Devon is known for brown trout, sea trout and salmon, and it rewards anglers of different abilities and methods. Whatever the conditions, there is usually somewhere on the river worth fishing.

The Devon offers excellent fishing for brown trout throughout its length, with sea trout and salmon adding further opportunity in the right sections and conditions. The upper river suits traditional and modern trout anglers, the gorge rewards adventurous anglers with exciting pocket water and deeper pools, and the middle and lower sections provide attractive runs, glides and larger holding water. Fly fishing and spinning are both productive, and trout can also be taken by other legal methods. In recent years the Devon has also enjoyed improved salmon catches.

The Devon is a valued wild fishery, and anglers are expected to respect the river, its access points and all restricted areas shown on the maps. Some sections pass through farmland, villages and protected gorge habitat, so responsible conduct is essential. Salmon fishing follows Category 3 catch-and-release requirements, and barbless hooks are preferred. The Association also carries out regular strimming and Wednesday work parties to help maintain access and support the quality of the fishery for members and visitors alike.

The Devon rises and falls quickly after rain, so planning around water levels is important. The river offers everything from easy roadside access to more demanding gorge fishing with limited signal and challenging footing. Always choose your section to match conditions, confidence and available time. In lower clear water, trout and sea trout can fish very well, while salmon often respond after autumn spates. Carry the maps, note the no-fishing sections, and allow time to walk and explore, as some of the best water rewards effort and careful approach.