Moray marks first salmon catch of the season on the River Spey
A bottle of whisky – as tradition demands – was poured into the fast-flowing waters of the River Spey.
‘Toasting’ the river like this is said to guarantee the goodwill of the salmon during the fishing season.
The season on the Spey began on Tuesday morning with an opening ceremony at the Penny Bridge which spans the river at Aberlour.
Richard Anderson played the pipes, while Rev Donald Walker, the locum minister for Aberlour, gave a blessing.
John Anderson, the guest of honour, did the pouring of the whisky into the water.
Dr Phil Williams, interim director of the Spey Fishery Board, said: “We were really pleased to see such a good turnout on Tuesday.
“Thank you to everyone involved, especially the wonderful attendance by our local community, our local ghillies and estate managers, and members of the Spey Board team who made it possible.
“The board is appreciative for the ongoing support of the Aberlour Distillery who provided wonderful gifts of 11-year-old Scottish Oak finish. The same applies to the Aberlour Hotel for supplying hot drinks and Walkers Shortbread for providing the best biscuits and samples.
“Good luck to all our proprietors and everyone in the community for the new season.”
This year’s Quaich competition winner is Gordon Tait, who recorded the prize for first catch of the season, having netted a 9lb springer salmon on the Orton estate.
