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River Tweed salmon catch highest in over a decade

Getty Images An Atlantic salmon caught on a hook is brought into a net on the River TweedGetty Images
Almost all the salmon caught on the River Tweed were released back into the water as part of conservation efforts

The salmon catch on one of Scotland's most popular fishing rivers has hit the highest level in over a decade.

Last year a total of 9,947 salmon were landed by rod on the River Tweed with an additional 483 caught by nets.

It represents an increase of more than 3,000 on the five-year average and the highest rod catch since 2013.

The River Tweed Commission (RTC) said favourable fishing conditions and a greater number of returning salmon had contributed to the rise.

A catch-and-release policy is in operation on the river - which runs about 97 miles (160km) from southern Scotland to northern England - with more than 97% of the salmon caught by rods returned to the water.

The RTC said that reflected the "strong commitment of anglers to conservation efforts".

Chief commissioner Jonathan Reddin said the 2024 season had been a "positive one" for the river.

"It is crucial that we remain aware of the challenges confronting the Atlantic salmon and continue our committed efforts to guarantee, to the best of our ability, a consistent supply of cold, clean water," he said.

"This will help ensure that the successes achieved in 2024 can be replicated in future seasons."

Catches were low until June with seals affecting lower parts of the river which appeared to push fish further upriver.

However, later in the season catches rose to significantly above average levels.

Jamie Stewart, clerk to the RTC, added: "The improved catches this year are a welcome sign, and we are grateful to all those who practise catch-and-release to support the sustainability of the river.

"The RTC will continue working with the Tweed Foundation and other catchment partners to monitor and protect salmon populations for future generations."