Anglers fear ‘existential threat’ from proposed salmon rules

Proposals to expand catch and release rules

Anglers are fearing an ‘existential threat’ following Environment Agency proposals to markedly expand mandatory catch and release rules for salmon and sea trout across England’s rivers.

The controversy centres on plans that would extend compulsory catch and release from just three rivers currently – the Stour, Yealm and Calder – to most of England’s salmon waters for 10 years.

What’s behind the proposals?

The Environment Agency says the measures respond to widespread population decline. Its latest assessment shows 90% of principal salmon rivers require intervention by 2029, whilst sea trout populations are also showing worrying signs of decline.

Under the proposals, restrictions would be introduced to improve post-release survival: mandatory barbless or de-barbed hooks with specified maximum sizes, and a complete ban on using worms for salmon and sea trout fishing.

Sea trout would receive additional national protections through size-based catch and release limits and a two-fish daily bag limit for anglers.

The EA’s Simon Toms said: “Our main objective in seeking to implement these new measures is to adequately protect salmon and sea trout stocks to ensure that we maximise the numbers of fish that are available to spawn annually whilst still enabling fisheries, where possible, to exist.”

Critics’ response

However, critics argue the proposals will prove counterproductive, contending that exploitation rates are exceptionally low already, making further restrictions pointless. Many warn that fewer anglers on riverbanks could reduce vital monitoring for pollution and poaching, whilst struggling fishing clubs may fold entirely.

The stakeholder consultation closes on 10 October. A national consultation is expected to follow.

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