Aberdeenshire has a new grassroots angling development programme called Aberdeenshire Fly Fish 50. The initiative is part of the Scottish Angling National Development Strategy (SANDS). The AFF50 group was created in March and has recently completed its first block of fly fishing lessons for novice and intermediate anglers at Loch Insch Trout Fishery and a second block at Tullich Fishery has just been advertised. AFF50 will deliver angling lessons and ‘come and try’ events as well as highlighting other events across the region.

Ross Macdonald, the Dee’s Fisheries Development Officer said. ‘We are delighted with the start we have made, and I believe we can inspire new people to join us and share our passion for fly fishing.  2019 is a pilot year and from 2020 it is planned to hold five-lesson blocks at trout fisheries across Aberdeenshire, so 50 new people receive professional instruction each year. After three sessions, the participants will be able to go out fishing under their own steam but with full follow up support available.  We are supported by a first class group of volunteers including including local angling instructors, so we can deliver a polished, professional product.

Check out the AFF50 Facebook page for more details.