First Minister Open To Local Angling Return

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today (Monday 18th) opened up the possibility that some local angling may soon return in Scotland, with Scottish Government set to announce its roadmap for a phased easing of lockdown this Thursday.
In her daily press briefing the First Minister mentioned that some outdoor activities such as golf and fishing would be likely to form part of the initial stage plans for removing some present restrictions, if the progress on Covid-19 measures continue to work.
However, it is unlikely any changes will happen until after the next formal  review on May 28th.
The SGA Fishing Group, which has written to Ministers on the subject, has welcomed the potential easing and will await the formal announcement this week.
A Spokesman for The SGA Fishing Group said:
“We would welcome a return to local area angling and outlined to Ministers how we feel this may be done safely, minimising the risk of Covid-19 transmission.

“We await to see what Thursday’s announcement brings- and the Government’s timetable for any changes- but allowing a limited and staged opening of fisheries to local anglers would see people benefitting from the physical and mental health benefits of getting outside and into nature.

“Angling is a solitary sport and can be carried out with minimal, if any, contact with others. Social distancing is achieved very easily. Obviously, public health must continue to be the principal concern nationwide but we see no reason why local area angling cannot be compatible with that goal."

Over the weekend, the SGA Fishing Group hosted an open poll on its website, asking members and the wider public whether they felt local area angling could return.

The early results, based on 179 responses, received are shown below, with 84 percent of respondents in favour.