SALMON FISHING

Anglers join pipe band parade as season opens

Scores of anglers flocked to the River Teith recently to celebrate the opening of the salmon fishing season.

Para snowboarder Andrew Macleod joined Stirling Council Fisheries in Callander to throw a traditional quaich of single malt whisky in to the waters to toast the new season, as well as highlighting the benefits the outdoors can have on people’s mental and physical health.

Accompanied by Provost Christine Simpson, Doune and Deanston Pipe Band led the annual parade of around 500 people through the town to banks of the river – running extra high because of the stormy weather – where anglers of all ages gathered to watch the ceremony.

Introductions into the world of fly tying were offered from John Richardson of Franc & Snaelda, and for those looking to try their hand at fishing for the first time,‘come and try sections’helped new anglers cast their first line.

Exhibitors included Trossachs Search and Rescue, Mhor, Lantra Scotland, The Scottish Fly Fair, Forth Rivers Trust, Police Scotland and Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.

Provost Simpson said:“The opening of the fishing season is one of the highlights in Stirling’s calendar and the turnout this year was just fantastic once again.

“We always receive great support from the Callander community, anglers from across the country and all the organisations who turn out in support of the opening day.

“Anyone who visits our shores will be able to experience not only some of the best fishing the UK has to offer, but also the wonderful spirit of the angling communities surrounding our rivers.

“I would like to congratulate the