Fishing – popular Eliburn remains open during the winter

Eliburn Reservoir in Livingston remains open during the winter and carp of over 20bs are in the lake along with sizeable crucian carp, ghost carp, roach, tench and bream brushing fins with rudd, perch, ide, barbel and pike.

Regulars fish the popular coarse fishery where permits cost £5 a day (£2 junior). They are available from wardens on site.

There are a number of pegs but there are strict rules. They include using barbless hooks and a landing net must to be used at all times.

Anglers must also have an unhooking net to minimise fish damage and all fish must be returned.

A maximum of two rods is allowed but there is no fly fishing or spinning. Bait can be maggot, power, bread or sweetcorn. You decide.

It’s a friendly fishery with locals willing to discuss best pegs and tactics and for £5 a day who can argue.

Our picture shows member Andrew Taggart with a sizeable carp.

PARKING: You can park in the fishermen’s car park next to Livingston FC Community Club (EH54 6LF).