Fishing – free scheme to encourage more youngsters into the sport

Fishery boss Fraser Thomson has launched a free scheme for the school summer holidays to encourage more young people into the sport.

Thomson is offering youngsters aged between 12 and 18 free entry to his Whitburn-based fishery on Friday afternoons from July 12 from 1pm to 5pm.

They will receive a packed lunch, free use of tackle, and tuition at Pottishaw Fishery (pictured above at sunset) which boasts hard-fighting rainbow, Tiger, brown and blue trout.

And the young people will be given an information pack on safety tips and how to look after fishing fear.

Information on environmental topics and the importance of looking after local rivers and ponds will also be offered.

And all those taking part will be given a free permit for the nine-mile stretch of the River Almond administered by West Lothian Angling Association which currently has nearly 100 members.

And Thomson is also keen to develop the talent of young people who already fish.

Thomson from Livingston said: “The idea has been in my head for some time and now is the time.

“There is great potential here to produce a number of new young fishermen from this area to the sport and fishing can help tackle mental health problems, obesity and loneliness.”