A 12-week consultation on proposals for new catch control bye-laws for salmon fishing on the Welsh side of the River Severn will begin today (Wednesday 20 June).
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is making the proposals in response to the dramatic decline in stocks of salmon and sea trout in Welsh rivers in recent years.
While the situation on the Severn does not give the same cause for concern as many other Welsh rivers, some important existing byelaws expire in December and these proposals are necessary to ensure stocks are protected.
“There are continuing concerns around the numbers of salmon returning to our rivers and the future of many fisheries is now threatened.
“Put simply, there are not enough adult fish spawning to sustain stocks at their current levels or to prevent further decline.
“We are now seeking views on the catch control proposals which will protect vulnerable stocks while maintaining the important environmental and economic benefits associated with fishing.
The proposals mirror the Environment Agency’s recent consultation on the English bank of the river and would be in place for 10 years until 2028.
The byelaws are intended to protect vulnerable stocks, while maintaining many of the important benefits associated with the fisheries.
“Just as the Severn is an iconic river, the salmon is an iconic fish and we must do everything in our power to ensure stocks recover and thrive in the future.