It is an auction with a difference – one that could safeguard the future of some of the north’s most important rivers.
The Findhorn Nairn & Lossie Fisheries Trust online auction has already raised hundreds of pounds, which will be used to deliver practical advice and habitat work, inspiring and helping people to protect river habitats and the wild salmon and trout populations they sustain.
The Forres-based charity works to conserve and restore river habitats to the three local rivers.
Trust director Bob Laughton said: “We are delighted with the support received from both local businesses and individuals – many of the auction lots are truly once in a lifetime opportunities. We would like to thank all our kind donors, who recognise the importance of keeping our rivers healthy, by offering lots for the auction. The funds generated from the auction will enable us to continue our invaluable restoration work.”
During the auction, which will run until May 7, a number of unique and interesting items will be available to bid on.
Participants can bid for fishing lots on beats on the Findhorn which are not normally available to salmon anglers- at Cawdor, Dunphail and Corrybrough. Deer stalking on the Coignafearn and Aberarder Estates in the heart of the Monadhliath Mountains is also up for grabs, as well as two tonnes of beech firewood from the forest of Darnaway.
A number of dining experiences, holiday breaks and cultural opportunities are also among the items on offer, with lots starting from as little as £10.
The charity conducts several school projects aimed to inspire young people to get outdoors and enjoy the rivers on their doorstep.
The charity have been working with a number of school pupils on several project including the the “Salmon Go To School” and has proved to be very popular with local Primary Schools.
Through the scheme, members of the trust go to schools to speak to the young people about the fish species present, the life cycle of the Salmon and its importance to the local economy, as well as teach them how to put together a fishing rod, how to cast properly.
Mr Laughton added: “The thing we are looking to do is hold a series of parent and child events. We are seeing a real decrease in the level of young people coming into fishing.”