Fishing is a truly underappreciated pastime and whether you enjoy fishing in quiet seclusion or casting off with some of your best friends in the world, these five epic fishing locations will bring your favourite hobby to the next level.

Sutherland, Scotland

Scotland has many fine salmon rivers and you’ll find some of the best examples in Sutherland. Sutherland is situated in the heart of the Scottish highlands and is one of the true remaining wildernesses in the United Kingdom.

You will find trout and salmon here in abundance, especially if you can get in touch with an experienced ghillie to guide you to the best spots.

River Fleet, Sutherland. Flickr cc: John Haslam

Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

The Rio Grande is one of the finest sea-trout rivers in the world, and many would say it’s the pinnacle. A once in a lifetime trip for most, a journey to the Rio Grande offers huge fish, breathtaking scenery and plenty of adventure.

There are only 5 fishing lodges on the 80 mile long Río Grande, and booking one can take a bit of organisation and a large wallet. Warm clothing is essential as The Río Grande is cold and the weather can get pretty wild as it’s only around 800 miles north of the Antarctic.

Wikimedia Commons: Santiago Pauli

Prince of Wales Island, Alaska

Famous for their spectacular jumping ability and energetic movement, the silver and king salmon in Alaska have been testing anglers for generations. The island's economy thrives on commercial fishing and tourism, and as well as salmon fishing, visitors can also fish for halibut, crab and shrimp.
Once again it is essential to pack clothing for any type of weather as in Alaska, it can be warm one hour and cool and rainy the next.

USDA Alaska Forest Service

Persian Gulf, United Arab Emirates

The Persian gulf is easily accessible on fishing charters from Dubai, and the best time to fish is between October to May. Dubai fishing is all about big fish and big variety.

Look out for Queenfish, King mackerel, Barracuda, Dorado, Yellowfin Tuna and Cobia. This is a great destination for people looking to master big sea fishing as there many experienced crews willing to show you the ropes.

Sunset in Dubai. Wikimedia Commons: haitham alfalah

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Weighing up to 750kg and able to swim at up to 130km an hour, the giant black marlin is a legendary catch. Only the best need apply here, as getting into a prolonged battle with one of these babies will zap the life of you.

Marlin season in Cairns (early September to late December) is just about your best bet of catching one.

World record black marlin (14-foot-7-inch, 1,560 lb) caught by Alfred C. Glassell, Jr. in August 1953. Photo courtesy of AntiqueFishingReels.com-Ed Pritchard

Whether you’ve never fished before, you’re a keen amateur or the complete angler, going for a fishing trip in a spectacular location is a great buzz and will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.