It's been a long winter. Any hopes of things going back to "normal" were of course dashed just after Christmas when the Scottish Government announced the second lockdown.
Hard times for so many people and businesses.
As it stands, the second lockdown appears to be winding down somewhat, with rules on exercise, sport and outdoor activities relaxed and just in time for the opening of the trout season.
The current guidelines as of 14th March state that the following is allowed -
Local outdoor informal socialising, recreation, sport or exercise. This can be in groups up to a maximum of 4 people from a maximum of 2 households, plus any children under 12. 12–17 year olds can meet up in groups of up to 4 at a time and are not subject to the 2 household limit. Outdoor socialising, recreation and exercise can start and finish at a place in your local authority area (or up to 5 miles from its boundary). For exercise, you should travel no further than you need to reach to a safe, non-crowded place.
So what does this mean for the club?
Some good news, some not so good.
Memberships for 2021 will be available from Lindsays mid week .
Boats are currently not available, but will be put on the water in time for Easter Weekend, so for the moment Loch Brora is unavailable.
While GAC recognises the government guidelines allow travel for the purposes of sport and recreation within your local authority, we are stipulating that for the immediate future fishing is open to LOCALS ONLY.
(Residents of the KW10, KW9 , IV28 postcodes)
We appreciate this may be frustrating for some , however with lockdown still in place Govt advice is not to travel more than a few miles for activities, and all hotels, B+Bs and hospitality remain closed in any case.
Small communities and rural areas are not exempt from the effects of Covid 19 with Alness and neighbouring Invergordon experiencing large outbreaks of the virus. (This killed 16 residents in care homes in less than a month in Invergordon)
This measure will be temporary and if lockdown easing continues as it has been so far, the club should be in a position to welcome visitors from elsewhere in good time for the weather warming and the fishing becoming productive.
As ever, any issues questions etc email golspieanglingclub@hotmail.com.
Tight lines
Admin