The Committee's Blog

It is with enormous satisfaction that the committee can confirm that the Lomond system has been re-categorised as a category 2 water for the 2017 season.

After what was described as a very constructive meeting in late September attended by the Association Chairman, Carolyn Bryce the biologist for the Loch Lomond Fisheries Trust and representatives from Marine Scotland and the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries team we knew that we had put forward a strong case.  It was also apparent that there was a real willingness on the part of Government to review the categorisation of the Lomond system for the 2017 season, however, this was no done deal as our case had to be fought and won.

Following this meeting the committee submitted their response to the consultation in good time and in line with the timeframe set by Government.  It was then a case of waiting, we knew that we had done as much as we could, the question was would it be enough?

Early in November we received word back that things were looking positive but the matter had still to be referred back to the Scottish Parliament for consideration.  The final decision when it came today was not just welcomed, but also we believe, well deserved.

There is no doubt that our categorisation would not have changed if your committee had sat back and did nothing and this result was ultimately down to old fashioned grit, determination and an extremely strong and coherent argument.  The committee also avoided jeopardising any change to our categorisation through reporting prematurely the initial feedback we had received as this could have done untold damage to our cause.  Trust in such situations like in other walks of life is vital, you either have it or you don’t, and when you lose it you can so easily lose the lot!

What does this mean for anglers on the Lomond system in 2017?  Simply put we will once again be able to harvest limited numbers of salmon.  Members will receive 3 tags with their 2017 permit allocation which they will be able to use between 1 May and 30 September.  However, as always we ask that anglers show moderation and keep conservation and the future of your system to the fore when deciding whether to harvest a fish.

Finally, the committee would also like to thank the retiring chairman Malcolm MacCormick for the time and effort he put into the review, fantastic effort, and all our members and supporters who responded to the last consultation as this no doubt helped reinforce our very strong and persuasive case.

The committee

As members are aware a request has been made to hold an EGM and this will be held as soon as possible. Given the motion tabled we are attempting to identify an independent chair that is suitable to both parties.  A possible chair has been agreed but that person has still to be approached and their willingness to undertake this role together with their availability confirmed.

Once the above is confirmed then both parties will require to agree to a date for the EGM that is mutually suitable and coincides with the availability of the proposed chair.

Members should note the giving of the notice calling the EGM will be communicated by post once all of the the above is confirmed.  In addition the applicants have been asked again for further information to elucidate their claims and to give substance to what goes in the notice. We await their response and if received will include this in the call for an EGM.

 The Secretary

Later this week the committee will start the process of circulating to members an update on the categorisation for season 2017 as well as full details with regard to a request for an EGM. 

 This information will be forwarded by post and not published on line as the LLAIA  is a private members club and many members do not have access to the internet.

 We are hopeful that members will be in receipt of this information within the next 7 days.

The committee