Is catch-and-release really the answer?

I read with interest your article (News, 24 August) about the increasing numbers of Scottish rivers moving to a catch-and-release policy. While this is to be applauded, it is not the answer. I have been fortunate to have fished the Royal Dee for 15 years and most recently have had a rod on the Wye.

I am no expert, but having spoken to many gillies over the years, they all say there are many issues at work. Phosphate run-off, the acid effect of softwood plantations, seals, netting and, more recently, I would suggest that water extraction and pollution are the biggest issues.

The life cycle of a salmon is one of nature’s wonders. In the current environment,

I have no problem with catchand-release as Atlantic salmon are in short supply, but a coordinated effort by all the organisations and guardians of our waters should be able to reverse the decline of fish showing themselves in our spectacular rivers.

For this to happen, it needs leadership and cooperation. Cooperation between big business and local landowners. No small task.

This season, I have seen more fish than in recent years and this is indeed encouraging. I have no idea why, but all I can hope for is that the considerable efforts of many who care for the pursuit of fishing and conservation have a louder voice in the future.

Searching for and

submitted to be reproofed. All of mine are proofed for 1925 and one German 16-bore for 1940, so the cost to me would be out of reach.

I feel many other people will say “use Bismuth”. Why?

The last time I bought some for wildfowling, they cost £39.50 for 25. I gave up wildfowling and never bought any more. There is no clear information, only moving being privileged enough to catch salmon is a life-changing experience, especially in the company of great friends.

The pursuit of any fish is primal and gives great reward (occasionally, in my case). I would like to leave you with one final thought on the many benefits of fishing, a quote from The Compleat Angler by Izaak Walton, published in 1653: “Study to be quiet.” James Lewis, by email the goalposts. It is so confusing for me and many others.

My licence is coming up soon, so do I give it all up now or spend the money and hope that someone comes to their senses and gives us clear information? If you don’t shoot for the food market, only yourself, why not leave it be?

K Williams,

Essex

Fishing for salmon can be a life-changing experience, says reader James Lewis