Illegal fishing/Poaching

illegal fishing for salmon in particular has had a long history in Ireland, traditionally poorer people 'poached' a salmon for the dinner table such were the times but over the past 30 - 40 years there are others who have turned the practice into a commercial enterprise in some cases passed from generation to generation. Stories abound throughout the countryside of salmon being sold from the boots of cars from house to house, to restaurants, bars and other dining establishments.

The Law is very clear in regards to the act of illegal fishing. Persons who fish illegally can and will be prosecuted, may have their car/boat/rods/nets other equipment seized and confiscated.

The Rivers Dee and Glyde are not exempt from the practice of poaching, the Fisheries board have taken a number of successful prosecutions over the years and continue to do so. The Association currently has 21 Fisheries protection Officers with a further addition to this in 2009. Salmon stocks are under threat of extinction and the illegal catch and sale of Salmon further jeopardises the survival of the species native to our rivers.

Anyone who witnesses or notices suspicious activity on or near the rivers should notify the Fisheries Board officers or the Association Fisheries protection staff.

Report pollution/poaching

 

illegal gill net being seized by Fisheries Protection Officers

Anyone caught fishing for or in possession of Salmon will be prosecuted.