Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has attended the ceremony to open the Salmon Fishing season on the banks of the River Tay in Dunkeld.
The Conservative MSP has also submitted a motion in the Scottish Parliament celebrating and welcoming salmon fishing on the Tay.
The motion text reads as follows,
That the Parliament welcomes the opening of the salmon fishing season on the River Tay; understands that, in 2012, the average catch increased from 10 to 12 pounds and over 7,000 salmon and grilse were caught; praises what it sees as the positive impact that the catch and release of spring salmon has had on overall numbers and the vital role that Tay salmon fishing plays in driving tourism and the economy, and supports the future of salmon fishing on the Tay and across the rest of Scotland.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Salmon fishing is important to the rural economies of many communities in Scotland and it was a pleasure to be present at the River Tay’s 2013 launch in Dunkeld.
“Salmon fishing on the River Tay has gone from strength to strength in recent years. The number of young salmon is on the rise thanks to the success of the ‘catch and release’ scheme which ensures the future sustainability of the river.
“The Tay has been particularly successful in drawing anglers from across Britain to Perthshire who are eager to test themselves on the river. I’d encourage fishers of all standards to come to Perthshire and explore the fantastic fishing available on the Tay.”