Association working hard to reel in the next generation of anglers

Anglers in Moray hope sessions to spark the interest of youngsters will help keep the sport alive.

Catching salmon on the River Spey is one of the most fabled pastimes of living in the area.

Amid lower catches and prices for spots on beats increasing, there are concerns future generations may never pick up reels.

However, the River Spey Anglers Association wants to keep the hobby alive for years to come.

While many sports like football, rugby and others have coaching in schools, angling has historically never had such support.

Instead, the skills and knowledge has traditionally been passed from fathers and grandfathers to the young.

Now the River Spey Anglers Association wants to help inspire youngsters to swap games consoles for waders by running sessions to teach them.

Chairman John Trodden said: “There’s a perception that salmon fishing is only for the aristocrats or wealthy people who can afford it, but there’s lots of affordable fishing available now. Most of the other sports in Scotland have a track record in development coaching and angling is probably about two decades behind in that.”

The River Spey Anglers Association have been supported on their mission with a donation of 10 fishing outfits as well as rods and reels from tackle firm Loop Aktiv.

A session has been run at the Wardend fishery near Elgin to help youngsters get to grips with the equipment while passing on advice.

Andrew Pole with dad Mike at Wardend Fishery.