15th January: ‘Proud’ comedian Paul Whitehouse remembers late angler father while opening River Tay salmon season

Gone Fishing star Paul Whitehouse lands lead role in Tay salmon season opening ceremony in Meikleour on the anniversary of his dad’s death.

It was a poignant moment for comedian Paul Whitehouse as he kicked off the River Tay salmon fishing season.

Paul, star of Gone Fishing, revealed that January 15 – the official opening of the season at Meikleour – marked the fifth anniversary of his father’s death.

The sun shone on the frosty banks of the Tay at Kinclaven Bridge as Paul, 65, made the first cast from a boat, after popping a magnum of champagne.

“It’s a very important day obviously for Tayside, but it’s quite significant for me, personally,” he revealed. “My dad died on this day five years ago.

“I’m not at his graveside because I went the other day. He told me that he would be very proud that I’m here today opening the River Tay.