Anglers gearing up for Spey opening
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
PREPARATIONS are underway for the opening of the salmon fishing season on the mighty River Spey.
The Spey Fishery Board has announced that Andrew Flitcroft, the editor of Trout and Salmon Magazine, will be the Guest of Honour for the February 11 opening ceremony.
It takes place at 9am at the Penny Bridge in Aberlour's Alice Littler Park.
The ceremony will begin with a blessing by Reverend Geoffrey McKee followed by a few words from Mr Flitcroft.
Following tradition, a bottle of Aberlour 12-Year-Old Single Malt will be poured into the fast-flowing waters as a gesture to wish the salmon good health and to herald the official opening of the river's salmon fishing season for 2020.
That will be performed by angler Stuart Martin, who caught the first fish last year to win the Spey Anniversary Quaich. Accompanying him will be Mr Flitcroft as well as Allan Sinclair, who will perform on the bagpipes.
Anglers are invited to attend the opening ceremony, before starting on their quest to catch their first spring salmon of the season.
To help celebrate, drams of Aberlour 12-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky, samples of Walkers Shortbread and hot drinks supplied by Aberlour Bespoke Catering will be offered during the opening ceremony.
The Spey Anniversary Quaich will later be awarded to the angler who catches the first salmon on the opening day, together with a bottle of Aberlour Distillery Exclusive Whisky and a Walkers Shortbread hamper.
A bottle of Aberlour whisky and Walkers hamper will also go to the angler who lands the heaviest salmon on opening day, as well as ghillies in attendance.
You can visit www.speyfisheryboard.com for the official competition rules.
