The 2025 salmon fishing season has officially begun on the River Tay, marked by a traditional opening ceremony on 15 January. Amid bagpipes, whisky blessings, and eager anglers, TV presenter Paul Murton, known for Grand Tours of Scotland, performed the season’s first cast.
The ceremony, held near Meikleour House in Perthshire, featured a blessing where whisky was poured from a traditional Scottish quaich into the river. Accompanied by the Perth and District Pipe Band, attendees marched from the Meikleour boathouse to the riverbanks, celebrating the return of Scotland’s beloved pastime.
The event was fully booked, attracting anglers from near and far to one of the River Tay’s most historic fishing beats. Stretching 1.7 miles from the junction of the Tay and Isla Rivers, the Meikleour and Upper Islamouth beat is renowned for its picturesque surroundings and prime fishing pools, including the iconic Islamouth and Castle Pools.
Will Draper, Head of FishPal, an online service that facilitates fishing permit bookings, highlighted the location’s enduring appeal. “Meikleour has been a cherished spot for generations of anglers. Whether you’re an expert or a novice, this beat offers an incredible experience. Anglers can now book permits and accommodation seamlessly through FishPal.”
Last season, River Tay anglers raised £4,057 for charity through FishPal donations, supporting initiatives that encourage young people to take up fishing. Alisdair Ker, FishPal’s Head of Scotland and North England, expressed gratitude for the contributions: “These donations help ensure the future of the sport and support the next generation of anglers.”
The River Tay’s opening marks the start of the Scottish fishing calendar, with the River Tweed and River Dee set to follow on 1 February. The Tweed’s ceremony will take place at Kelso Town Hall, led by the Duchess of Roxburghe. Following a traditional walk to Junction Beat, a whisky blessing will be held on the riverbank. Visitors can also attend the Fly-Tying Fair at Kelso Town Hall, while permits for some Tweed beats are available from £12 per day.
Meanwhile, the River Dee’s opening ceremony will once again be held at the Milton of Crathes, where last year hundreds gathered to celebrate. The 2025 event will also announce the winners of the Dee District Salmon Fishery Board trophies. Anglers can book permits for the Dee starting 3 February, with the Crathes Castle beat offering breathtaking views and the chance to catch large spring salmon.
FishPal has made it easier for anglers to explore Scotland’s rivers, providing online booking for fishing permits and accommodations across the Tay, Tweed, Dee, and other major rivers. Videos of the River Tay’s opening ceremony, capturing the whisky-soaked festivities, are now available on YouTube.
For more details on permits and upcoming events, visit FishPal’s website: www.fishpal.com/Scotland.
