Anglers descend on River Teith for Fisheries Opening Day

Stirling Council celebrated the beginning of the new fishing season with the return of its traditional fisheries opening event in Callander.

Provost Douglas Dodds follows a piper-led procession through Callander towards the River Teith
Provost Douglas Dodds follows a piper-led procession through Callander towards the River Teith

On Wednesday (1 Feb), anglers and members of the local community took part in a piper-led procession through the town and then gathered on the banks of the iconic River Teith to mark the occasion.

Stirling Provost Douglas Dodds launched the season by throwing a measure of whisky from the traditional quaich into the water and casting off into the river.

The Council manages salmon fishing rights on the Forth and Teith rivers, which provide recreational opportunities for any angler on some of Scotland’s most scenic waterways.

You can fish free of charge until Saturday 4 February – though a permit must be obtained in advance. The fishing season runs until 31 October and permits can now be purchased online at the Fishing around the Forth website. Rules and regulations can also be found online on the Council website.

The Provost, who also spoke at the event, said: “It was fantastic to welcome members of the angling community to the banks of the stunning River Teith to mark the beginning of the fishing season. This is a special event for our anglers and the local community, and I want to recognise the hard work of everyone involved in organising it.

“Stirling’s rivers offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the country and provide a challenge for both beginners and experienced anglers. If you’re wading into the waters this season, I wish you luck in catching one of the Atlantic salmon that swim in our waters.”

Provost Douglas Dodds casts off into the River Teith
Provost Douglas Dodds casts off into the River Teith