Orkney Trout Fishing Association

The Orkney Trout Fishing Association (OTFA) is a non-profit voluntary organisation dedicated to preserving and enhancing game fishing in the Orkney Islands. With a rich heritage in trout fishing, the OTFA is committed to ensuring its future for both local and visiting anglers. The Association carries out various activities to further this aim.

One of the key initiatives of the OTFA is the operation of a hatchery, which utilises local stock to provide for less productive waters in Orkney. This helps maintain healthy trout populations and contributes to the overall conservation efforts in the area.

The OTFA also provides riparian sites with access and boat launching facilities on the main trout fishing lochs. These sites not only offer convenience to anglers but also prioritise conservation by providing shelter, piers, car parking, and toilet amenities. This ensures that fishing can be enjoyed in a sustainable and responsible manner.

In addition to these efforts, the OTFA keeps a watchful eye on all trout fishing lochs in the county. By supporting initiatives that benefit the sport and opposing any measures that pose a direct threat to trout fishing, the Association helps protect and preserve the unique fishing opportunities in Orkney.

Membership of the OTFA is open to both local and visiting anglers. By becoming a member, individuals actively contribute to the conservation and preservation of trout fishing in Orkney. The nominal membership fee grants access to all the facilities provided by the Association, ensuring that members have the opportunity to enjoy some of the best wild trout fishing available in the area.

The OTFA also organises fishing competitions and social events throughout the fishing season. These events bring anglers together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among fishing enthusiasts. The competitions provide friendly competition and an opportunity to showcase angling skills.

During the 2023 season, the OTFA celebrated the achievements of local and online competition anglers. A report highlighting their successes is available for interested members and visitors to view.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the OTFA kindly requests that all members and visitors adhere to the relevant Scottish Government guidelines when using the Association's sites for the 2024 season. Prioritising the safety and well-being of both anglers and the local community is of utmost importance.

The Orkney Trout Fishing Association's website serves as a hub for all information related to the Association. It provides details on membership, fishing competitions, environmental initiatives, hatchery operations, and social events. The website is regularly updated to ensure the most current information is available to members and visitors alike.

The design and management of the OTFA's website are overseen by Jim Adams, ensuring a user-friendly and informative experience for all. Contact details for the Association are readily available on the website for any inquiries or further information.

By joining the OTFA and participating in its activities, anglers can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of game fishing in the Orkney Islands. With a focus on conservation and community, the Association strives to ensure that the rich tradition of trout fishing in Orkney continues to thrive for years to come. Anglers who were confused by the fact that they joined via the Internet but did not receive any confirmation what-so-ever. These people joined by clicking on the Join Us Webpage and paid their subscription online.

The system then tells them to wait for an e-mail which will contain their account and member numbers. None came. Now I find that I have to press a button to send an e-mail but I've no idea how to actually receive an e-mail. I spoke to Concentric (our Webhost) and they told me they had found “several thousands” of e-mail in their system and got rid of them all.

I asked them to tell me when they actually send an e-mail to make sure it's OK, and they agreed to do so but won't let me know how they will contact me. We'll see what happens when the system goes live.

Overall, it has been a relatively quiet year for the OTFA, with a return to normalcy after the challenges of the previous two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Online membership has been steadily growing, with many visiting anglers opting to join the Association through this platform. The OTFA acknowledges some technical issues experienced last year, where new members did not receive automatic email responses. Efforts have been made to rectify this issue, and the system will be put back online shortly to ensure a smoother membership process.

In conclusion, the Orkney Trout Fishing Association is dedicated to preserving the heritage of trout fishing in Orkney while actively working towards its conservation and enhancement. With a commitment to providing facilities, organising events, and engaging anglers, the Association aims to ensure a bright future for game fishing in the beautiful Orkney Islands.