Drumtassie Fishery, near Blackridge, has grown from a simple project to one of the most popular angling venues in Central Scotland, celebrating its ninth birthday with a strong community and regular visitors.
The story of Drumtassie Fishery is one of transformation and community. What began as a modest project a decade ago has blossomed into a beloved angling destination. The fishery, nestled near Blackridge, has become a hub for anglers of all ages, including 96-year-old David McDonald, who has fished there for over 80 years.
The journey started with the arrival of diggers, which carved out three lakes over an 18-month period. These lakes were left to settle for six months before becoming the vibrant fishery we see today. The transformation from open ground to a bustling facility on Heights Road (EH48 3SW) has been nothing short of remarkable.
The Heart of Drumtassie Fishery
The fishery initially featured two fly ponds and a bait pond. Today, all ponds are teeming with activity seven days a week, with fishing allowed from 7am to dusk. The water, named after the Drumtassie Burn, is regularly re-stocked, attracting anglers from across Scotland and beyond.
Leeanne Aitchison, the fishery manager, played a crucial role in the early days, not with a spade but as the cook. Her efforts have been rewarded with a thriving community of regulars who have supported the fishery through thick and thin. “They have supported us, shared laughs and made memories,” Leeanne said, reflecting on the journey.
A Community Built on Passion
Drumtassie Fishery built its clientele slowly, starting with a Facebook advertising campaign. Initially, there was some confusion, with many anglers believing the fishery was “up north.” However, word spread, and anglers soon got hooked. Attendance spiraled until the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a temporary slump. “After COVID, they all came back,” Leeanne noted, highlighting the resilience of the angling community.
The fishery has attracted anglers from as far afield as New York, with regulars like David McDonald visiting three times a week. Despite its popularity, Drumtassie can be tricky to find on the first visit. Leeanne admitted, “Yes, people get lost, but they learn quickly.” Once there, anglers are greeted with good fishing and sizeable catch returns, thanks to the spring-fed water.
Honoring a Beloved Regular
One of the many regulars at Drumtassie was Kenneth Harper, who sadly Passed Away recently. Kenneth, who fished from a wheelchair, was a beloved figure at the fishery. He lived in Rosyth and visited three or four times a week. In honor of Kenneth, the fishery is organizing a goodbye competition on Saturday, September 12, which is fully subscribed.
Leeanne reflected on the nine years that have flown by, noting how the fishery has evolved. “Things have changed. When we first opened, it was hard for the first couple of years, but it is all like a big family now,” she said. Talking of family, Leeanne’s daughter Chanelle manages the nearby coarse fishery, which has expanded from three lakes to include a Match Pond, a Canal Pond, and a new water under construction.
Prices at Drumtassie Fishery are competitive, with options for four hours (£20), six hours (£23), and all day (£25) for catch and release. Kill tickets are also available, with various options depending on the duration and number of fish. Leeanne reminded anglers that barbless hooks are mandatory on the fly pond.
Looking Ahead
When asked about future plans, Leeanne mentioned that the fishery is currently focusing on a clean-up, preparing for the winter ahead. The community spirit at Drumtassie Fishery is palpable, with anglers supporting each other through good times and bad.
Meanwhile, in the world of sea fishing, Jimmy Green, who won the summer league, continued his fine form by winning the first leg of the winter league organized by the Bass Rock Shore Angling League based in East Lothian. He hooked into 11 fish for a measure of 234cm, securing a comfortable victory. Second was teenager Niko Millar Jun (North Berwick) with seven fish for 202cm, and third was Steven Rowcliffe (Prestonpans) with five fish for 186cm. He landed the longest fish of 57cm. Barry McEwan (Port Seton) was fourth with four fish for 146cm.
The next leg of the winter league is scheduled for Wednesday, September 16, with the venue to be confirmed this weekend.
