ThePADDLER 102
However , the journey has not been swift or easy and not without difficulties or hard work from both sides . Through ongoing discussion , compromise , respectful understanding of the needs of paddlers and fishing , honest liaison , ‘ paddling days ’ for the Gillies and ‘ fishing days ’ for the paddling guides , we have ended up with a fantastic arrangement .
REASONABLE , RESPECT AND RELATIONSHIPS
Building trust and relationships with the key players in this complicated situation reminds me of the ‘ The three R ’ s ’ – Reasonable , Respect and Relationships .
I have spoken via e-mail to both Guy Mcpherson- Grant and British Canoeing ‘ Places to Paddle ’ department . The latter is keen to interview David Craig , the legendary Spey guide and SCA ( Scottish Canoe Association ) Access Officer , some Gillies and estate managers / owners to produce a podcast . Which is hoped to be share with English and Welsh fishing estates , riparian landowners and paddling groups throughout the UK .
To summarise , without the levels of understanding , respect and relationship building from the main stakeholders , the hospitality and service we received on Speyside for the October Cumbria Canoeists , open canoe autumn trip 2020 would have been quite different . A ‘ wetter than wet ’, cold , miserable and challenging trip , I sense . Instead , we experienced a heartening and uplifting trip , and that ’ s without any details or tales of the excellent paddling and adventures on some challenging white water . It ’ s all about the people .
Speyside – Cumbria “ heralds , respects and THANKS YOU ” for your outstanding hospitality .
:// goo . gl / maps / MkJZZnTKJiPwLEEa8