Recreational Sea Angling Strategy Group proposal recruits support

An initiative seeking to create a long-term sustainable future for sea angling in Scotland has recruited the support of Highlands & Islands MSP, Dave Thompson.

Mr Thompson is in agreement with the proposal, supported by the Scottish Government, to establish a Recreational Sea Angling Strategy Group. This would work with the industry in order to grow the sector – which already contributes £141 million per annum to the Scottish economy.

Mr. Thompson has supported a parliamentary motion concerning the creation of the Sea Angling Strategy Group. He claims that this could foster a significant boost to coastal communities in the Highlands & Islands through the development of a sustainable fisheries management plan.

The energetic Scottish Sea Angling Conservation Network SSACN), campaigning for this step to be taken and already recognised as an innovator in the conservation of relevant fish stocks, will be glad of his support.

Mr Thompson says: ‘Sea angling is an important contributor to coastal communities’ economies in Scotland, particularly the northern economy, and is considered as significant as all forms of freshwater angling combined.

‘Sea angling can take many different forms, be it on shore, boat or charter. It currently supports nearly 300 jobs in the north of Scotland, generating an income of over £5 million for the Highland economy.

‘There is significant potential for growth in Scottish Sea Angling, with an existing infrastructure for berthing and maintaining own boats, particularly on the west coast, that could be expanded to foster further uptake of the activity.

‘That is why I fully support the formation of a strategy group charged with the task of halting the decline of fish stock species, offering long-term benefits to coastal communities throughout the Highlands & Islands and promoting the growth and future development of the sector’.