Wild salmon strategy implementation plan: annual progress report 2024
The second annual progress report under the Scottish wild salmon strategy implementation plan covering progress in 2024.
Theme 2: Managing exploitation through effective regulation, deterrents and enforcement (6 actions)
Action 2.1 - Revise and apply the Conservation of Salmon (Scotland) Regulations 2016 annually based on stock assessment data
Ongoing
The annual salmon stock assessment informed the revisions to the Conservation of Salmon (Scotland) Regulations 2016 which came into effect from 1 April 2025, specifying where salmon are subject to mandatory catch and release practices for the 2025 season.
Action 2.2 - Maintain the prohibition of the retention of salmon in coastal waters until such a time as the conservation status of salmon allows for the consideration of removing this measure
Ongoing
The prohibition of the retention of salmon in coastal waters was maintained for this reporting period.
Action 2.3 - Review the Conservation of Salmon (Annual Close Time and Catch and Release) (Scotland) Regulations 2014 and the Tweed Regulation Order 2007 to ensure the protection of vulnerable stock components
Not yet started
Resourcing this review is being considered in work planning for the 2025/26 reporting period.
Action 2.4 - Undertake a review of enforcement powers, the offences and penalty regime for salmon poaching (a wildlife crime) and other offences, aiming to increase penalties if necessary
Ongoing *
FMS has completed the preparatory work to undertake a review of enforcement powers, the offences and penalty regime for salmon poaching and other offences and has submitted to the Scottish Government for consideration.
Action 2.5 - Continue the current policy that all prospective water bailiffs must successfully complete specific training delivered by Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM) and FMS before appointment as a water bailiff
Ongoing
This action continued to be met in the reporting period.
Action 2.6 - Refresh and promote guidance on best practice for catch and release
Completed
A steering group was established to revise and enhance guidance on best practice for catch and release which was published in January 2025.