Within five minutes of parking my car at Rosslynlee Trout Fishery, two anglers had their rods bent by fish.
That is, to my mind, a solid endorsement of the sport available at the 5.25 acre fishery near Penicuik.
BACKGROUND: The loch, which has views towards Edinburgh, Fife and the Moorfoot Hills, is stocked regularly with quality rainbow and blue trout from two pounds to double figures and there is also a good head of brown trout.
Fishing is by fly only and, in order not to damage the stock, anglers are requested not to net or handle fish.
They are asked to unhook in the water with a release tool or forceps and lift out the flies.
Robert and Joan Pitcairn pride themselves on having a fine reputation as a good “top of the water” fishery and there are 30 well-constructed platforms for a maximum of 24 rods to avoid overcrowding. Two boats are available.
Contact: Robert and Joan Pitcairn
Web: www.rosslynleetroutfishery.co.uk
Address: Newbigginghill near Penicuik EH26 8QF but beware as three local properties have the same postcode
Directions: the fishery is at Newbigginghill around four miles from Penicuik, five miles from the Edinburgh by-pass and four miles from Bonnyrigg on the A6094 Bonnyrigg to Howgate road on the left hand side, two miles south of Rosewell
T: 01968 679606
Times: gates open 8.15am and the fishery is open daily from 8.45am to 5pm and to dusk from the end of April to the end of August
Car park: for about 20 cars
Species: rainbow, blue and brown trout
Basic prices: from £12 for four hours catch and release and from £19 for four hours, take the first two fish and then catch and release
Concessions: none
Rod hire: only for experienced anglers
Catching method: fly only
Minimum 6lbs nylon and flatten hook barbs and maximum of two flies
How many pegs: 30 but restricted to 24 fishermen to avoid overcrowding and to provide an angler with his or her own space
How many boats: two
Booking: advisable, especially at weekends and holidays
Outings: welcomed and contact Robert or Joan Pitcairn
On-site facilities: shop with basics including leader material and hooks. Snacks are also available along with tea/coffee and cold drinks. A microwave is in place for heating food
Bothy: with toilets and disabled access. There is a seating area with a wood-burning stove where anglers are welcome to eat their own food and join in friendly conversation
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