Salmon fishing season was officially opened with a “tight line” toast in historic Perthshire.
Celebrity angler James Stokoe, who shot to fame on the BBC’s Big Fish competition, was guest of honour at celebrations in Callander on Friday morning.
The season was launched in traditional style with a piper-led procession of anglers, wielding their fishing rods, to the banks of the River Teith.
James, who competed against other passionate anglers at fishing spots around the world for the prime time fishing show, said he was honoured to take part in the festivities, which were blessed with sunshine and blue skies.
“I have been fortunate to be able to travel to different locations around the world over the last few years to follow my dream of fishing,” he said. “And I want to pass that passion on to other people.
“If you can inspire one person to pick up a rod and get on with it, job done.”
James, who is an ambassador for the Angling Trust and the Atlantic Salmon Trust, added: “Hopefully today’s launch event in Callander can inspire more people to get involved.”
The launch was welcomed by local MSP Alexander Stewart. “Salmon fishing is an integral part of our Scots country tradition and culture,” he said.
“I am a great supporter of this highly skilful discipline when correctly licensed and regulated, as real skill and talent is required to be amongst the top salmon and sea trout fisherman in the country.
“I would like to congratulate and pay tribute to James also, as he has achieved so much in such a short time.”
Stirling Council fisheries officer Scott Masson added: “The opening of a new salmon fishing season is always an exciting time and each year this event gets bigger than the last, with more anglers and organisations turning out to support us.”
Salmon season was launched on the River Tay last month, with guests including comedian Fred MacAulay and adventurer Polly Murray, the first woman to climb Everest.
