‘Let’s Fish’ on Scotland’s canals

Free pilot `Let’s Fish’ sessions to take place along Scotland’s canals.

Young people across Scotland’s central belt are being given the opportunity to learn to fish for free this summer.

Scottish Canals in partnership with the Scottish Federation for Coarse Angling (SFCA) will roll out the pilot project this month across the lowland canals thanks to funding from EB Scotland Limited (The Scottish Landfill Communities Fund).

The sessions are ideal for those who have never tried fishing before and will offer a quiet, safe, canal-side environment for those taking part with experienced coaches.

The sessions will run throughout July along The Forth & Clyde canal at Hamiltonhill Claypits, Hamiltonhill, Glasgow and the iconic The Kelpies, Grangemouth.

Lee Oliver, Scottish Canals Head of Sustainability said: “This is an exciting project which will give young people the opportunity to try fishing in a safe environment with coaches on hand to guide them.

“In undertaking these focussed teaching sessions, we hope to engage canal users on the importance of the biodiversity of our waterways, in this case especially as a valuable habitat for cyprinid (coarse) fish. The sessions will also seek to inform participants on waterway safety and the importance of positive social behaviour, awareness and responsibility when engaging with the waterways and the wider public.”

Gus Brindle, Chairman SFCA/Director Angling Scotland Ltd said: “The physical and mental health benefits of fishing are widely acknowledged.  It is something the whole family can enjoy, and you’ll always remember the first time you caught a fish.”

“Over the next six weeks through the school summer holidays, we will be hosting a series of 40 minute `Let’s Fish’ introductory taster events. These will be open to anyone and will be suitable for adults and children aged six or over.”

The sessions are free with tackle and bait provided.  For more details on how to book a place log onto JustGo.