One of Scotland’s fishing experienced specialists is offering a free taster session for youngsters next year.
Sunday, March 15 has been booked at Whinney Loch, Coldingham, near Eyemouth (pictured) (post code TD14 5QE) with a 10am start. The finishing time is 4pm.
Organiser Stewart Collingswood said: “Our team of guides, who all have current disclosure certificates, will spend a day helping youngsters get familiar with the sport of fly fishing and hopefully catch their first fish. The first 12 subscribers will secure a place and the age group is seven to 14 years.”
He said Whinney Loch is one of the best for teaching beginners. It also has a wooden fishing bothy facing the water and lunch will be supplied.
And Mr Collingswood added: “Parents are welcome to come along on the day too. We’ll provide lunch for everyone. It takes 50 mins from the east side of Edinburgh and there will be free tea and coffee and snacks for adults who can chill in the hut or go for a walk nearby. There are toilets at the venue.
“The youngsters could arrive and leave at any time during the day, some may only want to come for a few hours.”
All fish caught will be released and Mr Collingswood said that bring sensible footwear, like walking boots, and plenty of warm layers of clothing plus a waterproof jacket and trousers is recommended.
Participants will learn an overview of fly fishing, which lines and flies to use, how to make up a rod and attach the reel and line, knots, learn to cast – roll cast and overhead – and how to play and land a fish and release it without damaging the fish.
Mr Collingswoood, founder of Alba Game Fishing who are running the course, added: “Each participant will receive a certificate there will be a few prizes for the best anglers. Six first aiders will be on site and all the equipment and safety glasses will be provided.
“We are in our 15th year (as a business) and every year we support various charities. This year I wanted to encourage some beginners to the sport to the magic of fly fishing that enraptured my team and I when we were boys.”
Register an interest with Mr Collingswood by emailing fishing@albagamefishing.com
Experienced news, business, arts, sport and travel journalist. Food critic and managing editor of a well-established food and travel website. Also a magazine editor of publications with circulations of up to 200,000 and managing director of a long-established PR/marketing company with a string of blue-chip clients in its CV. Former communications lecturer at a Scottish university and social media specialist for a string of successful and busy SMEs.
