Dams to Darnley Angling Club Open Day

Come along and find out more about the newly formed Dams to Darnley Angling Club. Get information about joining the club, meet local anglers and have a look at some demonstration tackle set ups and outfits for Pike fishing. Free coaching sessions will also be on offer to catch other species of coarse fish!

One of the Barrhead Dams

All events are free and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The Open Day will be held on Saturday 18 June, 10am - 4pm at Waulkmill Glen Reservoir (one of the Barrhead Dams). From Darnley walk carefully up Corselet Road until you reach the first reservoir (25 minutes) or from Balgray Reservoir walk all the way around, cross Aurs Road and walk down to the second reservoir under the viaduct (30 minutes).

For directions or more information please contact the Countryside Rangers on 0141 577 4053/4054 or email d2d@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk

Many people currently fish at the Barrhead Dams. To date no information has been found to confirm who owns the fishing rights at the Dams, but this is something that is being looked into. If you currently or plan to fish at the Barrhead Dams then please take a few minutes to have a look at the following good practice tips:

• Discarded line should always be cut up and placed in the bins or taken home

• All litter should also be binned or taken home - even if it isn't yours!

• Existing paths should be used as much as possible to avoid disturbing wildlife and for your safety

• Parking is very limited at the dams. Make sure you do not park in front of gates at anytime. Scottish Water, farm and emergency vehicles need access 24 hours a day

• Be considerate of others, keep noise to a minimum and check for passers by before casting

• Make sure someone knows where you are and when you expect to return

• Weil's disease results from rat urine. Wash your hands before eating, do not place food on the banks and cover any cuts with waterproof plasters

• Always use the correct tackle for the species you are fishing for (e.g. wire trace for Pike)

• Fish welfare should be your first priority. Make sure you can land your fish quickly, carry  forceps to remove hooks and handle fish out of the water as little as possible. Use an unhooking mat with larger fish, and always fish with barbless or de-barbed hooks.

• If your fish is deep hooked, do not pull on the line. Cut the line as far down as possible in the mouth and release immediately.

• Never move a fish or use live bait. Introducing fish species to an area is illegal and can result in major disruption to a natural ecosystem, as well as introducing disease.

• Show restraint in the number of fish taken and respect fishing seasons and return fish where possible.

• Fishing is a sport enjoyed by many people for various reasons from fun through to food. Respect other anglers and their motivation.

• Angling is a potentially dangerous pastime, be aware of the dangers of deep water and minimise the risks.