The annual close season for Atlantic salmon and sea trout is in force on most rivers across England from today (Wednesday 1 November) to help protect the species from disturbance when spawning, supporting the health and resilience of these fish stocks.
Wild Atlantic salmon and sea trout numbers are in decline, with stocks now categorised as being 'at risk' or 'probably at risk' in most rivers. The byelaws put in place prohibit fishing for these fish during the autumn and winter months, helping to protect them when they are at their most vulnerable.
Atlantic salmon and sea trout spawn at different times in different rivers, so the start and end of the close season varies across England. Hence it is important that anglers check local information and national rod fishing byelaws to ensure they are up to date on local restrictions.
The Environment Agency would also like to encourage licence holders who fish for Atlantic salmon and sea trout to submit their annual catch returns. Annual catch returns can be completed online or by sending in a paper catch return, the information collected is vital to help produce national salmon and sea trout stock assessments.
Dr Graeme Storey, Environment Agency Fisheries Manager, said:
We are aware that fishing is not the only cause for decline of our fisheries, yet it is important that anglers still play their part in supporting the long-term resilience of the iconic fish that thrive in our rivers.
The close season is one way in which we can support these species to maximise the number of juvenile fish within our rivers, which in turn head to sea before returning as adults. I urge anglers to respect this time and help us protect these vulnerable stocks.
Throughout the close season, Environment Agency officers conduct patrols to enforce the close season, preventing illegal fishing and protecting fisheries. The maximum fine for byelaw offences is £50,000 upon conviction.
Those who suspect illegal fishing should report it to the Environment Agency's incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.
