Salmon netting station deal is hailed

The last remaining active salmon netting station in Angus has been bought out in a historic deal river bosses hope will help reverse the decline in fish numbers.

The purchase of the station close to the mouth of the River North Esk near Montrose is expected to save up to 5,000 fish from nets each year, increasing their chances of returning to breeding grounds upriver and boosting the area’s sporting reputation.

Atlantic salmon survival rates have fallen dramatically in the past half century and the Esk District Salmon Fishery Board’s purchase of the netting station around

“The DSFB has invested heavily for the future of the river”

the Nab on the North Esk – for an undisclosed sum understood to be more than £100,000 – has been hailed as a “huge boost” for the river.

All salmon and sea trout netted are killed, while anglers release the vast majority of the fish they catch.

The 2019 North Esk season is due to open on February 16.

Esk DSFB chairman Malcolm Taylor said: “The DSFB has invested heavily for the future of the River North Esk.

“While it is sad to see the end of this traditional form of catching salmon, it is essential that we allow as many salmon as possible to return to their breeding grounds to produce the next generation.”

Neil Anderson, fishery manager for the Gallery Beat on the North Esk and owner of a local fishing shop, added: “This deal will be a huge boost to the river.

“With more salmon and sea trout running the river, anglers will have a great chance of catching fish, which is good for the anglers and good for local businesses.”