Last week, the Seafood Scotland team travelled west to meet with seafood producers across Oban, Fort William, and the Isle of Mull. These industry visits are a cornerstone of our work—offering valuable opportunities to connect with exceptional businesses, gain insights into sector challenges, and deepen our appreciation of the diverse seafood Scotland has to offer.
Day 1: From Smokehouses to Steelhead
Our journey began in the scenic village of Killin with a visit to the Falls of Dochart Smokehouse. This family-run business impressed us with its handcrafted range of smoked salmon, all produced on-site with care and precision.
Next, we travelled to Kames Fish Farming on Loch Melfort. With a strong legacy in producing high-quality steelhead trout, Kames’ focus on sustainable aquaculture in the brackish Atlantic waters was inspiring to see in action.
Day 2: Sea-to-Plate in Fort William
The second day brought us to Blas na Mara, and their newly opened seafood kiosk in Fort William. Just 50 metres from their boats on Loch Linnhe, this facility delivers an authentic “sea-to-plate” experience. We were treated onto the loch to witness first-hand their fishing production. it’s a shining example of local sourcing and seafood excellence.
Day 3: Island Traditions on Mull
Our final day took us to the stunning Isle of Mull. We began with a visit to the Tobermory Fish Company, where we were warmly welcomed by Kara. She guided us through the facility, showcasing their range of premium smoked salmon and trout. The tasting session highlighted their dedication to traditional smoking methods and high-quality local ingredients.
We ended the tour at Inverlussa Mussel Farm, one of Scotland’s oldest mussel producers. Cameron and Douglas walked us through the mussel-growing process, from rope to harvest, offering insight into a business that blends innovation with long-standing expertise.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who hosted us throughout the trip: Falls of Dochart Smokehouse, Kames Fish Farming, Blas na Mara, Tobermory Fish Company, and Inverlussa Mussel Farm. Your hospitality, openness, and passion for Scottish seafood are what make this industry so remarkable.