Loch Leven dusk beats
Alice’s Bower to Scart islet — the ridge that lights up at dusk
Loch Leven, Perth and Kinross, spreads over about 3,600 acres and averages 12 ft deep. Wild brown trout dominate the dusk shows — the local fast-growing strain produces plenty of 2–4 lb fighters and the occasional 5+ lb yellow belly that punches hard. Stocked rainbows turn up to chase lures. Perch and pike patrol the margins.
Where to fish at last light
Alice’s Bower to Scart islet sits on an underwater ridge, 3–12 ft deep, and produces steady evening rises; fish deeper with Di-7/Hi-D sinking lines or higher with Di-3/Wet Cel 2. North Queich Mouth to Green Isle is prime for 3–5 lb browns feeding on fry when northwest winds push a shallow bank drift under 15 ft. The shallows off Pow Burn hide active trout on 4–6 ft drop-offs. Calm evenings call for size 12–16 imitative dries; windier nights take bushy size 10s.
Fly patterns, rig and fight
Simple rigs work: nymph middle dropper, palmered bob and a lure point. Mix dries and small lures — imps take brownies, bobs tempt rainbows. Pack Di-3/7 lines, a 4-piece 9ft #7 rod and spare leaders. Keep floatant handy for bobs and long evening casts. Expect 5–10 fish on a solid two-hour dusk session when the wind and light align.
Camp-to-boat logistics
Base near Kinross for easy M90 access from Edinburgh. Launch from the fishery piers in small boats; a compact dinghy and a dry bag make the evening run simple. Local ghillies run guided drifts that unlock secret beats and save precious light.