The pre season casting lessons on the River Findhorn commenced in early Feb and was well attended by around 30 people on both Sundays. Lessons this year was provided by Tom Brown and a few helpers allowed everyone to get to grips with the fine art of casting.
The Opening Ceremony was also well attended with around 50 people turning up to a cold but fine day. President Michael Barron gathered everyone at the Stoney Pool and briefly introduced Murray Liddell from Benromach Distillery (Main Sponsors) Mrs Macleod (Landowner), Malcolm Mackintosh ( former Pipe Major) and Tom Balch who would open the season this year. Presentations of Benromach Single Malt was given out to those involved in the ceremony and after a short speech on how things used to be, Tom followed the piper to the waters edge where the river was blessed by the pouring of the amber bead into the water.
Others in attendance were a Police Scotland wildlife crime liaison officer, FNLFT Executive Director Elle Adams,Ecologist Ollie Smaje, Catchment restoration officer Guy Harris , Elise Cox from the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative along with the two River Bailiffs, Seam McLean and Alister Taylor.
The President gave a report on last year’s catch and information on the out of area permits which were increased to 30 this season.
The rest of the proceedings were carried out back at the Stoney hut where refreshments and snacks were made available to the attendees.
Anyone wishing to fish the Findhorn can obtain permits via Fishpal for daily or weekly permits.
Early indications are that apart from our one springer, plenty sea trout kelts are around including Findhorn Bay so some rod bending is possible but remember to handle with care and return all fish carefully to the water.