Pitlochry fish ladder

Pitlochry fish ladder is a passage system built alongside the Pitlochry Dam to help salmon move upstream during their migration. It consists of 34 separate chambers arranged like steps over a distance of 310 meters.

The passage system was built between 1949 and 1951, making it Scotland's first fish passage at a hydroelectric dam. It marked a turning point when energy production and environmental care were planned together.

This structure shows how people tried to balance electricity production with the needs of migrating fish. Visitors watching through the underwater window experience the salmon's journey in a way that connects them to the river's life.

The best time to visit is April through August when salmon are most active in their migration. An underwater viewing window lets you watch the fish up close without any special equipment or preparation.

An automated counter tracks about 4,000 salmon passages yearly, providing scientists with real-time data on fish populations. This information helps researchers understand how salmon populations are doing over time.

Location: Perth and Kinross

Part of: Pitlochry Dam and Power Station

GPS coordinates: 56.69900,-3.74011

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58