Lairg Angling Club got the first competition of the 2021 angling season under way in fine style as more than a dozen anglers competed for the Cooke Aquaculture Scotland Cup open fishing competition on Saturday, July 24.

The trout fishing competition, which drew competitors from as far away as Glasgow, took place on Loch Shin, home to Lairg Angling Club and Cooke Aquaculture’s freshwater salmon facility.

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In bright and warm conditions the overall winner was Brian Martin, Lairg. with seven fish. The heaviest fish was caught by Marc Coull, Lairg, with a weight of 1lb 4oz and the smallest catch of the day went to James Wilson (Alness) who caught one fish.

Lairg Angling Club chairman David Ross said: “It’s not something we say too often in Sutherland but the weather was a little too good which made for an enjoyable if sometimes frustrating day.

“It was great to be back out on the water. We’d like to thank everyone who took part in the open competition, especially club members and those who travelled a distance to join us, and we look forward to being back bigger and better next year.

“As chairman of Lairg Angling Club I would like to thank Cooke Aquaculture for their continuing support of our club which is very much appreciated by all our members.”

Murray Munro, Loch Shin freshwater site manager said: “Cooke Aquaculture has supported Lairg Angling Club on Loch Shin over many years and we have an excellent relationship with the angling community.

“Many of our employees are keen anglers and understand the role of thriving angling clubs across the country, so it’s great to be able to help this community club bounce back from its Covid-inspired hiatus.”

Based on the north side of Loch Shin, the club has boats available for hire on three local lochs, Shin, Craggie and Beannach.

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