Ion energy distributions along the axis of the Maryland linear theta pinch were measured by a parallel‐plate electrostatic deflection type energy analyzer. Two possible sources of end loss are discussed. The first is acceleration in the axial potential which is a result of the cooling of electrons near the end of the tube. The second is the axial ion temperature that results from relaxation due to different microinstabilities among ion energy components. The particle measurement suggests that the second one is dominant. A two‐temperature Maxwellian distribution is observed along the axis. The absence of observable ions from farther than 10–20 cm into the plasma also implies a strong turbulent scattering process is operating.