2025 Annual Opening of the River Tay Salmon Fishing Season

by Vicki Unite, Chief Executive of the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

The annual opening of the River Tay Salmon Fishing Season at Meikleour Fishings brings communities came together to bless this wonderful asset and celebrate the start of the season.

This year’s opening event, which took place on Wednesday, was hosted by the Tay District Salmon Fisheries Board (TDFSB), the Tay Rivers Trust, Meikleour Fishings, Perth and Kinross Council and Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, and formally began with a procession of anglers making their way to the riverbank led by the Perth and District Pipe Band, headed by Pipe Major Alistair Duthie. 

The traditional blessing of the boat (with a silver quaich of Dewar’s Aberfeldy 21 single malt whisky) was performed by historian and film maker, Paul Murton, and councillor Andrew Parrot, the deputy Provost of Perth and Kinross Council.  Then Murton made the first cast of 2025, after he had popped a magnum of Pol Roger champagne.

During the opening address, Claire Mercer Nairn, vice-chairman of the TDFSB and owner of Meikleour Fishings, talked of the successful restoration of water to, and the restocking of, the River Garry, and reported that the conclusion of a scientific study (funded by SSE Renewables) is that this is already paying dividends.

Many parties are working tirelessly and passionately together for a sustainable future and there are ways in which local businesses can help. 

An easy place to start is with co-host of this event, The Tay Rivers Trust.

The Tay Rivers Trust’s mission is to protect the rich biodiversity of the Tay River, restore its natural habitats, and inspire young people and communities to become active stewards of this lifeline. By addressing issues like pollution, habitat degradation, and climate change impacts, the Trust ensures that the river remains a thriving source of life, culture, and prosperity for generations to come. Through educational outreach, hands-on conservation projects, and collaborative efforts with local stakeholders, the trust not only safeguards the river but also nurtures a profound connection between people and nature.

For local businesses, partnering with the Tay Rivers Trust is an opportunity to create lasting impact and align with a cause that transcends profit. Supporting the Trust allows businesses to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and community well-being, earning the trust and loyalty of environmentally conscious customers. By collaborating on initiatives like habitat restoration, river clean-ups, and educational campaigns, businesses become part of a movement that celebrates and protects the natural beauty that defines the region.

A healthy Tay River sustains industries like tourism, recreation, and hospitality, ensuring a vibrant local economy. Every business that supports the trust contributes directly to the preservation of a natural treasure that draws visitors, inspires artists, and enriches lives.

Jonathan Wilson, Brand Home Manager of Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery appreciates the importance of such an asset: 

“The team at Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery were delighted to be part of the opening of the salmon fishing season on the river Tay. Our founder was born in the Tay valley and to this day the river flows past our distillery and visitor centre. For that reason, we thought it fitting to bless the river with a very special bottle of Aberfeldy Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The anglers are really interested in our legacy in the area and we are always happy to share more on tours or in our busy whisky bar.”

By joining forces with the Tay Rivers Trust, businesses become champions of sustainability, community, and progress. Together, we can ensure that the Tay River continues to flow with life, beauty, and opportunity for all.

To get involved, please contact robert.salmonfishing@gmail.com for more details.