Gilly

/ˈɡɪli/ noun

Definition

A fishing guide or assistant who helps anglers catch fish, particularly in Scotland.

Etymology

From Scottish Gaelic 'gille' meaning 'boy' or 'servant,' used historically for hunting and fishing attendants in the Scottish Highlands.

Kelly Says

In Scottish tradition, a gilly wasn't just a guide—they were expert wilderness navigators who knew rivers and estates intimately and often became beloved figures in literary works about hunting.

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