I’ve always thought one of the best things about living in Scotland is the fishing.
With new Covid restriction guidelines rolled out, one of the things we can still do if we live here is go fishing in Scotland, with a few caveats to keep us fishing safely.
The gov.scot Marine Scotland guidance for anglers states: “… local outdoor recreation, sport or exercise is to be considered an appropriate reason for leaving home.
“Unlike the lockdown last year, the frequency of outdoor exercise is not being limited.
“Outdoor non-contact activities such as walking, cycling and golf are permitted for all age groups.
“Angling is also permissible provided this is within a single household group, or the group contains no more than two people from two different households. Children under the age of 12 from these households do not count towards this number.
“You can travel for local outdoor sport or exercise such as angling but must stay within the more general requirements with regard to travel and ensure that you abide by the rules on meeting other households.
“In general, stay as close to home as possible – within your local authority, or no more than five miles from the boundary – and stay away from crowded places.”
Gatherings for fishing competitions, club outings or group meetings etc are not permitted under the current restrictions.
Sea angling from the shore is allowed, provided that anglers comply with the more general requirements with regard to travel and the rules on meeting other households.
Sea angling from private boats with members of your own household is also allowed.
Angling from charter boats is not currently permitted.
Travelling from other parts of the UK to fish in Scotland is not allowed under current rules in Scotland.
Hopefully last year’s lockdown fishing gave us a greater appreciation for the water around us, the five-mile range around the boundary gives us something to explore and should put a venue within range.
Right now we might need an ice drill to go fishing or ice skates to get out for bread and milk but hopefully we’re able to get a fish on and see out this wave.
Check your local club or fishery to see what’s happening or have a catch up with some anglers you know on the phone.
There’s no need to put anyone else at risk to get out there. I’m not as likely to go rock hopping to get to a mark or hike miles away to get to a swim but I can certainly get a social distance without much hassle if I feel like having a cast in the cold this month. Even if all I do is take my rod for a walk or go scouting, I’ll be glad of the opportunity and health to be out enjoying the country.
