Fisheries Open Day to launch the 2023 season

Stirling Council will mark the start of the new fishing season on 1 February with the welcome return of the traditional opening event for the first time in three years.

Celebrity angler, James Stokoe casting off at the River Teith at the fisheries Open Day held in 2019
Celebrity angler, James Stokoe casting off at the River Teith at the fisheries Open Day held in 2019

Anglers and members of the public are invited to gather on the banks of the iconic River Teith in Callander on Wednesday 1 February where a small parade will leave from Ancaster Square to mark the occasion. Attendees are asked to gather at the square for 9am.

Fishing is free of charge from Wednesday 1 February until Saturday 4 February – though permits must be obtained in advance.

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

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.

Pipers leading a procession to mark the fisheries Open Day in 2019
Pipers leading a procession to mark the fisheries Open Day in 2019

Environment, Transport and Net Zero Convener, Cllr Jen Preston said: “It’s wonderful that we’re able to mark the opening of Stirling’s fishing beats with a special opening event again after the last couple of years of disruption.

“The Stirling area is home to some of the most scenic stretches of water in the country, reeling in anglers from across Scotland and beyond to test their skills. I’d encourage anyone with an interest in fishing to consider purchasing a permit to take advantage of the numerous beauty spots available on our rivers.”

Stirling Provost Douglas Dodds said: “I’m thrilled that Stirling’s angling community will once again be able gather together to mark the opening of the fishing season following the pandemic.

“The scenery on Stirling’s rivers is off the scale, offering a level of challenge for beginners and experienced anglers, and hopefully the launch event will inspire more people to take up the sport and enjoy our stunning natural environment and waterways.”