The lochs are managed with a view to conserving the native brown trout. There are no rainbows and no imported fish - the native stock are a distinct strain, the descendants of the fish that were introduced by the monastic community of Kiloran Abbey. Fishing is available in all the lochs during the season which runs from March 17 to September 30. There are very few restrictions, but adult visitors are asked to confine themselves to fly-fishing only. Up to four good-sized fish per day may be kept for the table, all others to be returned. Anyone wishing to fish is requested to join the Colonsay Fly Fishing Association either at The Colonsay, or at the Colonsay Estate Office. Members will receive access to the fishing log, and will also be able to rent the boats provided. Please note that it is a condition of use that lifejackets are worn and that children are properly supervised.
Unless you have access to a boat, you will be restricted to rock-fishing with a rod, or line fishing from the pier or slip. There are many suitable promontories and points along the eastern coastline. If you choose to fish from the pier or slipway, do ensure that children are properly supervised - and please shut the gate which gives access to the pier, to discourage children from wandering down there alone. Handlines can be purchased at the shop - if you use proper darrows, you will not need bait. Shrimping nets are also on sale for catching shrimps in the many rock pools around the island.