Sea angling is a popular sport throughout the country but is still an untapped niche tourism market in the Orkney Islands, according to Orkney Enterprise.

The local development agency has commissioned a study to assess the potential of both boat and shore sea angling around the Orkney Islands with a view to helping to stimulate a thriving sea angling industry within Orkney's tourism sector.

Freelance angling journalist, Mike Thrussell has been visiting Orkney to carry out the survey on behalf of Orkney Enterprise and has concluded that the area could become a popular angling holiday destination for its variety of general ground fish or for large predatory fish such as conger eels, common skate and sharks.

Fishing is already popular in Orkney with many visitors from throughout the UK and Europe making the trip north to fish for trout in the Island's lochs and Mike believes that the area's sea fishing could prove to be a hit too.

Mike explained: "Travelling distance is no object to the keen sea angler providing they know that the fishing in the area is first rate.  I've discovered during my trips to Orkney that the waters around the Islands can still produce the big fish that anglers are looking for.

"This represents Orkney with a great opportunity to generate a new niche tourism market which will not only benefit local boat operators and fishing suppliers but local accommodation providers, shops and restaurants."

Local boat operator, Paul Smeeton helped Mike carry out his survey.  He said: "It is really good news to hear that Orkney Enterprise is looking at ways of developing the sea angling sector.  Mike is very respected in his field and I am sure that his study is just the beginning of what will hopefully be a lucrative business for Orkney."
 
Orkney Enterprise chief executive, Ken Grant said: "Mike's findings make very positive reading and we will be studying the survey in great detail over the coming weeks and months. 

"We hope that from this information we can produce a comprehensive plan aimed at promoting Orkney as a sea angling holiday destination.  We will also consider what support mechanisms could be put in place, such as marketing assistance for the industry."

Barbara Foulkes, chief executive at Orkney Tourist Board said: "We are pleased to see new developments building on the successful European Federation Sea Angling Association competition held in Stromness this summer.  The local sea angling club have, for many years, welcomed visitors to take part on their competitions and this new development will be an exciting addition to the existing activity, extending the season and bringing new visitors to Orkney."