Continuing recent tradition the Helmsdale district salmon fishery board is opening the river to all anglers without charge from the first day of the 2025 season Saturday 11th January until Monday 20th January. Anglers are required only to sign in, with names and addresses, at Glencoast the tackle and retail shop in the High St.
The beat system is suspended during Open Days. The whole river up to the Falls at Kildonan is available on any pool. Fishing is by fly only and all fish must be returned to the river unharmed.
Any kelts hooked and caught — potentially the future generation of Helmsdale salmon — must be returned as fast as possible and with care.
The opening ceremony complete with piping starts in the High St at 10am. Anglers are asked not to start fishing until the ceremony is over.