Seven-year-old Jude Varty from Airdrie caught four rainbow trout within his first hour of fishing during his inaugural trip to Newhouse Fishery. The Rochsolloch Primary School pupil, who had been eager to try fishing for a long time, impressed his uncles Stef O'Brien and Edward with his natural skill and determination.
First Catch Within 30 Minutes
Jude's uncle Stef O'Brien told Lanarkshire Live: "My nephew Jude had been asking me for a long time to take him fishing. So, along with his other uncle, Edward, we took him to Newhouse Fishery for his very first fishing trip." Before casting his line, Jude spent the morning digging up his own worms for bait. With help from Stef to set up his bubble float and worm, he made his first cast. Within 30 minutes, his float disappeared underwater, and he reeled in his first rainbow trout entirely by himself, even dispatching it with a priest under supervision.
Non-Stop Action
Just five minutes later, Jude hooked another trout, shouting, "Uncle Stef, I'm away again!" He landed his second fish alone. The excitement continued as he caught two more within the first hour, bringing his total to four rainbow trout. Stef added: "I hadn't even had the chance to set up my own rod because we were so busy helping him net and admire each catch! His uncle Edward and I couldn't believe what we were seeing and were incredibly proud of him."
A New Hobby Born
Stef described the experience as a fantastic first fishing trip, noting that Jude is now "well and truly hooked on fishing." He said: "It was wonderful to see a young boy enjoying the outdoors, learning a new skill and making memories that we'll all remember for years to come. Jude was absolutely delighted and couldn't stop talking about it until he fell asleep that night." The family thanked Newhouse Fishery's Stevie for his hospitality and plan to return soon.
