Beecraigs Loch ready to welcome anglers for new season

Feb 11 2010 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

One of Scotland’s top fishing locations is preparing to reopen for the new season.

Beecraigs Loch at the popular Beecraigs Country Park in the Bathgate Hills, near Linlithgow, is set to welcome anglers for the start of the new fishing season on March 1 and is now taking bookings.

The Loch has been closed since last October, and was drained to allow essential repairs to be made on the reservoir dam. Work on the tower and face of the dam have now been completed and the loch is currently filling-up again.

A West Lothian Council spokesperson said: “We are pleased to confirm that Beecraigs Loch is reopening on February 15, and will be ready for the start of the new fishing season on March 1.

“The long established, sheltered, 20-acre loch is a must for fly-fishing enthusiasts, and is regularly stocked with quality Rainbow Trout. It also has a private car park, fully equipped fishing lodge and tackle shop, and floating jetty for easy access to eight well-maintained boats.

“We hope to welcome back many familiar faces as well as some new ones for the upcoming season. We are now accepting bookings, so please book now to avoid disappointment.”

Day sessions take place from March to November 30, with evening sessions running from May 1 to August 31.

Shorter four-hour sessions are also available during April, September and October for those looking to try the loch.

Concessionary rates are available for those aged 65 and over (conditions apply) and those anglers booking five or more dates in advance can apply for the Gold Card (conditions apply).

Gift vouchers can also be purchased from the Visitor Centre.

Fishing dates can be booked by calling Beecraigs Visitor Centre on 01506 844516 or going to www.beecraigs.com