[Pop up picture] Billy Connolly’s exploits on the River Dee may have grabbed the television spotlight, but some 50 members of Inverness Angling Club had a great time at the Mill Stream Pool on February 1 with an enjoyable opening ceremony, the first fresh fish of the season caught on the Weir Pool and 15 or so lively kelts which bent rods for the first time in 2010.

The event was sponsored once again by the Holm Mills Shopping Village whose manager, Neil Soutar, declared the season open. President Mike Campbell paid tribute to Neil’s unstinting support for the club throughout the last few seasons. As members took to the river, word came through that John Kaka had caught and released a fresh 8lb fish at his favourite sport in the Weir Pool. Other members connected with strong and lively kelts, including Neil Fraser with three from the Weir; Billy Mackenzie, two from the Mill Stream; and Frank Rabbeth and Lee Mackenzie stretched their lines on the MacIntyre Pool. [Pop up picture]

Evening TV news coverage included reports and interviews on Scottish Television and BBC Alba. Next day’s Highland edition of the Press and Journal carried a story and front page picture which featured members Graham Mackenzie, David Dyce and Paul Wareing.