Salmon are gradually returning to Yorkshire’s rivers, especially the Ouse, following the improvements in water quality over the past years, and where the salmon go the anglers follow.
Now Yorkshire anglers who are used to the close season dates for coarse fishing are being reminded that the salmon close season is very different.
The salmon close season runs from 1 November to 5 April inclusive, and anglers are also legally required to release with minimal injury any salmon caught in England and Wales between 5 April and 16 June. The close season for coarse fishing on any river stream or drain runs from 15 March to 15 June.
The reminder follows sightings of recent salmon angling activity on the Rivers Ouse and Ure during the salmon close season.
John Shannon, fisheries team leader for the Environment Agency, explains: “We’re delighted that salmon are returning to our Yorkshire rivers, but it does mean that anglers must take notice of the particular rules that govern when they can fish for them.
“We’ve made great strides in improving river water quality over recent decades, in partnership with Yorkshire Water and industry, and now the water is so good that a natural salmon recovery is taking place. This has led to temptation for some, and in recent weeks anglers have been seen fly-fishing using double-handed salmon rods. This can only be salmon fishing taking place, and it is breaking the close season embargo on these fish.
“There’s also been a recent increase in the use of spinners or artificial lures in what is often claimed to be pike fishing, but could just as easily be attempts to lure salmon.
“As the numbers of salmon increase in the Ouse, the Ure, and recently the Aire, we will also be stepping up our enforcement activities to protect stocks. Not only is the salmon close season earlier than the coarse close season, but anglers also need to be aware that they must have a salmon and sea trout licence.
“It is important to note that money from the sale of licences helps to fund our work managing and improving fisheries. Anyone fishing for salmon during the close season or without the appropriate licence is cheating other anglers, and could be fined up to £2,500.”
Rod licences expire on March 31, 2008. Buying a new licence couldn’t be easier – around 15,000 Post Offices and other outlets sell them; a direct debit can be set up, and they can be purchased over the phone (0870 1662662) or on-line at
www.environment-agency.gov.uk/rodlicence any time, day or night.
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