Scotland's coastline and seas provide a wonderful environment in which to enjoy Recreational Sea Angling (RSA) and many other recreational activities.
The Scottish sea angling community is a diverse one, involving dedicated sea anglers (some of whom fish competitively), tourists who try some fishing while on holiday and a range of people after a fish or two "for the pot".
For those of you planning a holiday to Scotland, or for sea anglers who would like to explore new places to fish around the country, VisitScotland has lots of information available.
The Scottish Government recognises the importance of sea angling to many people's quality of life and that it can make a significant economic contribution to numerous coastal communities.
To help us understand the scale, character and economic impact of RSA in Scotland, the Scottish Government commissioned Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) to undertake a detailed study, published in July 2009, to look at these things.
In the wake of the study, the Scottish Government set up a Recreational Sea Angling Strategy Group in order to indentify the best way forward for the sport and how best to realise RSA's economic potential. The Strategy Group, chaired by Alan Radford (GCU), is made up of a range of relevant interests including Marine Scotland officials, Tourism and Sports officials, VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise, COSLA, Scottish Coastal Forum, Highland and Islands Enterprise and, of course, representatives from the Scottish sea angling world.
Minutes of RSA Strategy Group meetings
Recreational Sea Angling Strategy Group Minutes - March 2010
Recreational Sea Angling Strategy Group Minutes - January 2010
Recreational Sea Angling Strategy Group Minutes - October 2009