Today’s the day
GET your permission slips in for some road trips, the outlook is all a bit brighter, it was light before 6am and I barely had to scrape the car this morning. And as of today, Scotland has opened up for some adventures further afield.
After the announcement this week by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, government advice states that from today you can: ●Meet in groups of up to six adults from six households socially outdoors, for recreation or exercise (under 12s do not count towards the number of people meeting or households) ●Travel anywhere in Scotland to meet others for the above purpose – but you must not stay away from your local council area overnight.
Have a look at the Gov.Scot site for further details on what you can or can’t do.
Check out your favourite fisheries for booking and availability, they’ll be stocked and ready for action as regulars from further away get the chance to wet a line for the first time this year.
Some of my friends have been able to book a boat on the Lake of Menteith. I won’t say I’m jealous but I did get a bit green around the gills watching some incredible drone footage of Lochend Bay yesterday.
If you’re getting away with the kids, there are lots of stillwaters that offer bait ponds like Carbeth or Kinross, whip fishing in the margins on Magiscroft – and if you head to Cloybank, it even has a petting zoo.
I’ve a list of places to go. I know someone who has had his 2021 Lomond ticket tempting him for a few months.
I’ve not been across to the east coast for some sea fishing for a while, there are some rivers I’d love to take a wander down for a chance at a springer or a big Brownie and I’ll happily blank up north with a couple of friends a bankside fry-up and some mountains in the background. Wherever you end up in the next few weeks it’s important to stay safe. Pack your lunch and check your gear so you’re be prepared for the day. Leave with a full tank of diesel to cut down on unnecessary contact, pay for your permit in advance if possible or know what the process is before you leave the house.
Some of the popular spots will be a bit like an old Sauchiehall Street Saturday but Scotland’s a big place to get away from it all and we need to make sure we leave it as we found it.
The usual facilities and resources may not be available but park sensibly, take your rubbish away and let’s get out there.