Fishing – Hope outlines Almond permit plans

Bruce Hope yesterday described The Almond as a hidden gem as he updated anglers on the situation of permits for next season.

The newly-appointed chairman of West Lothian Angling Association (WLAA) revealed plans to possibly take the permit total to 200.

And he stressed that outlets throughout West Lothian would stock permits.

Last season, permit numbers had to be increased from 100 due to demand.

The ceiling was raised to 150 but Hope said: “We believe there is a firm demand for permits.

“Realistically, we are looking at keeping the permits at 150 for the season, but there will be scope to raise that should the demand require it.”

Last year he said the only way to get a permit was online at the WLAA website and some committee members gave up their time to deliver permits to people.

He said: “We are trying to avoid that this year and we are planning to put permits into outlets throughout the West Lothian area.

“Final details have not been arranged yet so I can’t give you any information at this time however they (the outlets) will be widely publicised.”

The chairman took up fishing two years ago and said: “The Almond River is probably West Lothian’s best kept secret.

“When I took up fishing people told me not to waste my time fishing The Almond as there are no fish in it.

“I have plenty of pictures to prove otherwise and it is a brilliant wee river and I love it.”