River Helmsdale ceremonial opening today cancelled but anglers can still fish for free
The opening ceremony for the River Helmsdale, which was due to take place today, has been cancelled because of the wintry weather conditions.
The Helmsdale District Salmon Fishery Board made the decision to call off the ceremony earlier this week as the weather continued to deteriorate.
However, the river will still be open to anglers with free fishing from today until January 25.
The opening ceremony traditionally consists of a pipe band parade, a speech by river manager Michael Wigan, and a first cast. It was to take place from 9.30am today.
This year the first cast was set to be made by John Struthers, known locally as ‘Harris John’.
Anglers still need to register to fish the river and can do so at Glencoast, the fishing tackle and outdoor shop in Helmsdale.
Yvonne Grant of Glencoast said: “The river will be open for free fishing from January 11 as planned, but please be sensible with regard to the ongoing low temperatures and snowfall.
“Glencoast will carry on regardless and open as normal. We will be open all day Saturday and will still have our raffle, first fish draw, and dram in the afternoon!”
