During summer, TweedStart delivered a packed programme of activities for young anglers across the Tweed catchment. From the four-week TweedStart Plus programme, run with Whiteadder Watersports Centre, to an Introduction to Fishing Day at Chatton Trout Fishery and Ambassador workshops on the river, participants gained hands-on experience in fly fishing, entomology, casting, and safe river practices.

Congratulations to the young anglers who have successfully completed their four-week TweedStart Plus programme. The programme introduced fly fishing through a series of modules designed to give participants the skills and confidence to fish safely and effectively. 

Many of these young anglers will now progress to the TweedStart Ambassador Programme, where they will continue to develop their skills while encouraging and inspiring other young people to take up fishing. A heartfelt thank you goes to all the volunteers who generously shared their time and expertise to make this programme such a success.

Alongside this, Ben McCallum, TweedStart Education Officer, hosted an Introduction to Fishing Day at Chatton Trout Fishery, in partnership with the Chatton Angling Association. Participants enjoyed a hands-on day learning about fly tying, entomology, and fly fishing. Our thanks to Chatton Trout Fishery, the association, and all the volunteers who gave their time to support the event.

Over the summer holidays, Ambassadors from across the catchment took part in a series of river trout fishing workshops, covering everything from presentation casts and leader set-ups to dry fly and nymphing tactics, safe wading, and responsible fishing practices. Despite some challenging weather, the Tweed rewarded their efforts—many celebrated catching their first wild Tweed trout.

The TweedStart Ambassadors were also invited to a day’s trout fishing at Kailzie Trout & Salmon Fishery, Peebles. Congratulations to Luke, who earned Top Rod with four fish, showing great skill in adapting his techniques and fishing at different depths. A sincere thank you goes to Kailzie Trout & Salmon Fishery, sponsorsFastFlies, and our dedicated TweedStart volunteers for their continued support