New Code Of Practice – 2016

The Scottish Government has designated the Stinchar as a “category 2” river. This means that the River Stinchar District Fishery Board has to take appropriate management action to ensure that further exploitation of Atlantic salmon stock is reduced in our river. Failure to achieve this will result in our river being downgraded to a “category 3 river”. This would mean a mandatory catch and release of all salmon.

Riparian owners and their anglers, including day ticket holders are expected to assist the Board in its statutory obligations. Bailiffs will ensure that the under-noted Code of Practice for the 2016 season is followed.

1. No salmon to be killed before 30th June.
2. No salmon over 10lbs, or 29 ½ inches in length to be killed.
3. A maximum of 2 salmon or 2 grilse to be killed by any one angler throughout the season.
4. All salmon or grilse kept or released must be reported to the controller of the fishing, within 24 hours.
5. All hen fish must be returned throughout the season.
6. All coloured or gravid salmon and grilse must be released throughout the season.
7. All sea trout and whitling must be released throughout the season.
8. Barbless or circle hooks must be used when worm fishing.
9. No multiple (treble hook x 2) lures to be used when spinning.
10. Where appropriate, when unhooking a fish, it should not be removed from the water.

Please note, all kept and returned fish and ‘nil’ catches must be included in annual catch returns.

Finally, very many thanks to all riparian owners and anglers for your
co-operation with this very important matter.

Johnny Warrender