Opening day on the Helmsdale

[AlanB]

(Written for elsewhere but thought you might like to see it).
The opening of the salmon fishing season on the Helmsdale was attended by over 90 anglers today, all trying for the first spring salmon from the river. Sir Michael Wigan, William Jappy and the Sutherland Schools Pipe Band led anglers through the village to the river, where, after a selection of tunes from the pipe band, Sir Michael addressed the gathered anglers and William Jappy performed the ceremonial Opening Cast.

The pariade

The Sutherland Schools Pipe Band

First Cast Sir Michael watches as William Jappy makes the opening cast of the new season.
The Clynlish Trophy, for the first spring fish from the river hadn't been claimed by the end of the first days fishing. At least 5 fish were landed on the first of four days of free fishing, but they were all kelts (fish that have bread and are returning to the sea). In addition to the trophy there is a bottle of 14 year old Clynlish single malt and a ?100 tackle voucher for the Helmsdale Tackle Company (if the first fish is returned to the river unharmed) The prizes are still up for grabs. Anyone wishing to try for this prize can obtain a free ticket from the Helmsdale Tackle Company for free fishing until Saturday.

One of the kelts caught and returned

The Clynlish Trophy,
Cheers,
A.

[ScottP]

Alan,

Cool pics. Heck of a lot classier than this Opening Day:



Regards,
Scott

[LadyFisher]

Love it! Thanks so much for educating us *S*
Hugs,
LF

[lastchance]

Wow! Thanks for posting that report. That is beyond cool, fantastic, etc. I'd love to be there. It looks like one great time.

[Nighthawk]

Made me feel like I was standing there with you. Thanks!

[flywatersmallie]

Very cool! Thanks for sharing.... My wife is 100% Scottish and her grandparents came from the "old country" in the late 60's. They make a trip back there every year or 2. I passed it on to them as well, they thought the same. Neat tradition and nicely documented! By the way, they are from Ayr, no idea where in relation that is but next year I get to make the trip and would LOVE to time it just about right and enjoy the festivities as well!