River Spey officially opens for another season of salmon fishing
THE River Spey was officially opened on Saturday for another year of salmon fishing.
Angling enthusiasts and interested locals gathered near the Penny Bridge in the Moray village to celebrate the new season in style.
This year saw renowned guide and former Spey ghillie Ian Gordon invited as a guest of honour.
The experienced angler addressed the crowd before Rev Andrew Kimmit read a blessing hoping for a bountiful fishing season.
As per tradition, to wish the salmon good health for the new season, a bottle of Aberlour 12-year-old single malt whisky was poured into the fast-flowing waters.
Clive Murray, the angler who landed the first salmon of the 2020 season, performed the duty and Allan Sinclair performed on the the bagpipes while crossing the bridge.
Last year's ceremony was streamed live to viewers across the globe and organisers decided to do so again for 2023.
Roger Knight, Director of the Spey Fishery Board, was pleased to see a good turnout on Saturday not only in person but also virtually.
He said: "We've had a couple of years of disruption but we're delighted that we can hold it.
"It's been very well attended locally but we've beamed it out over the internet and we've been joined by people from Saudi Arabia and New Zealand which is tremendous, not just for the river but for the local area as well.
"We did it last year as well not quite as widely but it was watched by over 10,000 people last year which is tremendous.
"This river is world renowned for its salmon fishing. It attracts anglers from all over the world. It's a huge support for the local economy. It brings in millions of pounds per year and it really helps support what could otherwise be a somewhat fragile rural economy.
"We've got an even better attendance this year and I think that it has attracted even more viewers this time than we had last time.
"The anglers are always a very optimistic bunch and they can't wait to get going whatever the weather.
"They're eager to get back after their winter hibernation and we're looking forward to it."
Aberlour Distillery, Walkers Shortbread and the Aberlour Hotel sponsored the event to ensure that it once again went ahead.
