Coarse anglers at Drumtassie near Blackridge in West Lothian experienced a promising debut on the new Match Lake, despite occasional interference from trout in the former trout lake. Steps are underway to lower the trout numbers, enhancing the venue for coarse fishing.
Lake Potential and First Match Success
Participants highlight the strong potential of Drumtassie Match Lake, bolstered by upcoming stocking plans. “Everyone appreciates the potential of Drumtassie Match Lake, especially with the planned stocking programme,” noted Lawrie. “We are fortunate to be participating on this maturing, potentially outstanding match lake.”
The East Lothian Coarse Angling Club (ELCAC) hosted the first match there, overcoming initial uncertainty among members. Anglers now anticipate Round 2 of the Summer League on May 16, which kicks off the Knockout Cup. Organizers expect more newcomers, following the debut of Alexander Kerr, Robert Bartusik, and Bartek Kolowski.
Venue Features and Competition Format
The Match Lake features 21 permanent platforms, with room for four more, plus two islands. The right side offers deeper water—9 to 10 feet at 11 meters in the middle pegs and 6 to 7 feet nearby—while the left side ranges from under 2.5 feet to 6 feet.
ELCAC boasts 23 members, including honorary lifetime members Geoff Lowe and Bill Hamilton. The Summer League spans 10 matches, with anglers dropping their four lowest scores, alongside the Knockout Cup, Pairs, and Rod and Reel events.
Match Results: Improved Weights Across Sections
Seventeen anglers competed in four sections, posting higher winning weights than recent seasons—surpassing 21 pounds in 2024 and 32 pounds in 2025. All sections recorded double-figure victories.
Section A
Alexander Kerr dominated with 21 pounds 14 ounces on maggots. Lawrie placed second at 7 pounds 9 ounces after a strong start marred by trout. Roz Cassidy took third with 3 pounds 6 ounces of small carp, followed by Simon Clynshaw’s 1 pound 14 ounces on the tip rod.
Section B
Mark Gleave won with 32 pounds using expanders and micros, securing third overall. Club chairman Darrin Ferguson followed at 18 pounds 13 ounces with maggots on the short pole and tip. Will Martin netted 6 pounds 5 ounces, and Shug Smith 5 pounds 6 ounces.
Section C
Andy Roberts claimed overall victory with an outstanding 56 pounds 3 ounces on pellets and expanders in 4 feet of water. Joshua Lloyd was second overall at 46 pounds 12 ounces using similar tactics. Robert Bartusik weighed 13 pounds 1 ounce, with Jimmy Jones at 10 pounds 7 ounces.
Section D
Last year’s ladies champion Heather Lauriston topped the section with 6 pounds 12 ounces on maggots at 13 meters. Stewart Ritchie scored 3 pounds 14 ounces, and Gordon McKay 2 pounds 9 ounces.
Upcoming Trout Fishing Event
The Edinburgh Angling Centre at Granton hosts a Loop Tackle weekend on May 9 and 10. Visitors can explore new gear, watch casting demos by a world champion, receive tuition, compete in a single-handed accuracy contest, and support the Tweed Foundation raffle, which promotes fishing for all ages.
