The annual Barra and Vatersay on Saturday (6 August) will see a new trophy offered in memory of a friend to many in the islands. 

The Roddy Choy Shield will be presented to the winner of the biggest fish caught on the day as the competition returns to pre-pandemic format.

Fishing competition organisers said today: “The Roddy Choy Shield will be presented in memory of one of life’s best, who we sadly lost earlier this year. 

“From day one Roddy Choy was our biggest supporter, so it is entirely appropriate that we have a prize named in his memory. 

“Barra and the sea was in his blood so we hope he’d be chuffed that he’s recognised with the top prize in the fishing competition. We are grateful to Roddy’s family for providing us with this prize.”

‘Chief fisherman’ Roddy Choy passed away earlier this year and in his memory, after consultation with his family, the proceeds of 2021’s fishing competition were donated to the Barra Island RNLI lifeboat. 

This year’s competition has been slightly tweaked so that weigh-in and prize presentations will happen at the same time. 

Boats will leave from Ardveenish pier, Brevig pier and Vatersay Causeway at 1pm and fish caught by handlines or rods from the boats must be brought to Northbay Inner Harbour by 5pm to be eligible for entry. 

There are prizes for biggest, heaviest, most unusual fish and most caught, and a wooden spoon for the least amount caught, as well as under-16s prizes. All entrants will get a ticket for a special raffle on the day.

Those not fishing are encouraged to come along for the weigh-in and prizegiving and to help themselves to a fresh fish fry in return for donations.

The competition organisers said: “We’re looking forward to seeing everyone - young and old - getting together to show off their fishing skills after two years of virtual competitions.”

Pictures show the trophies and new Roddy Choy Shield, and Roddy himself weighing in a catch.