You may find the following species in the rivers and lochs

Atlantic salmon - distinguished from trout by its narrow 'wrist' (the area behind the tail), small mouth and large fins, salmon spawn in the rivers in November and then spend 2 - 3 years in freshwater before migrating to sea. They remain feeding at sea for 1 (grilse) or more (salmon) years before returning to freshwater to spawn. Salmon are believed to return to their natal river to spawn, even returning to the tributary in which they hatched. After spawning the adults (now kelts) return to the sea to recover before returning to spawn again if they survive. It is estimated that approximately 5 % of salmon have spawned previously.

Trout - there are 2 varieties of trout in Sutherland waters, the brown trout and the sea trout. While the same species, sea trout migrate to sea after 2 - 3 years in order to feed while brown trout remain in freshwater. Unlike salmon, sea trout remain within the coastal areas and do not undertake the massive migrations of their illustrious cousins. Trout can spawn on numerous occasions, again unlike salmon.

Arctic charr - unlike the European populations, Arctic charr in Britain do not migrate. Living in deep lochs, these fish are common throughout the area but seldom take the fly. Charr feed predominantly on plankton, and are taken as prey by trout and eels.

Eels - common throughout the area, eels need no description and have little interest to anglers. The young eels, or elvers, run into the rivers in May and June. They then grow in freshwater until mature, when they begin their seaward migration to spawn. This can take more than 20 years in Sutherland waters.

Minnows - not native to the area, minnows have been introduced in the past as live bait. They are small and occur in large shoals. Spawning is from May to mid July, with the alevin emerging after 13 or 14 days. They feed mainly on insects or plankton, and as such may compete with native species

3-spined stickleback - a small fish, it is of little interest to anglers and does not form a major food source for other fish species. Stickleback can be found in both fresh and brackish waters.

Flounder - a flatfish, more commonly associated with the marine environment, flounders are found in the lower parts of several rivers. They can undertake large migrations into freshwater, where they grow, but are seldom seen. Flounder breed in salt water.

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