River Tweed Commission Advice Note - Fishing During Periods of Elevated Water Temperature
As water temperatures rise during warmer periods, the River Tweed Commission (RTC) urges anglers to take extra care when fishing for salmon and trout to help protect fish stocks.
Elevated water temperatures increase stress on fish, reducing oxygen availability and making them more vulnerable to disease and mortality – even with good handling, catching a salmon or trout under these conditions adds further stress to the fish, increasing the chance of mortality.
Based on advice issued from the Wild Salmon Science Advisory Group, with endorsement by Fisheries Management Scotland and Scottish Government, we ask all anglers to follow this guidance during warm weather:
1: Monitor water temperatures. To inform angling behaviour, regularly check the river tweed temperature webpage, which provides an insight into daily fluctuations in river temperature and the prevailing conditions. (https://rivertweed.org.uk/fishing/water-temperature).
2. Avoid fishing during peak heat. Based on the scientific advice, we recommend that anglers stop fishing when temperatures exceed 20°C (64°F).The best time of the day for fishing is early morning (often around 5:00-6:00) when water temperature is at its lowest. During exceptionally warm periods combined with low flows, water temperature can reach 18°C by mid-morning, a threshold for extra care being taken when fishing. Depending on water conditions and the time of year, temperature can drop below 18°C in the evening, offering further opportunity for fishing.
3. Reduce fight and recovery time. Use appropriately strong tackle to land fish quickly.Allow fish to recover fully in the water before release - gently hold them facing into the current.
4. Handle fish with care. Minimise handling time and keep fish in the water at all times.Use barbless hooks to speed up release and reduce damage.Wet hands or gloves before handling and avoid squeezing fish.Detailed advice can be found at https://fms.scot/catchandrelease/
5. Consider voluntary suspension of fishing. During sustained periods of high temperature and low flow, consider refraining from fishing altogether.
6. Report concerns. If you observe distressed fish, algal blooms, or unusual fish behaviour, please notify the RTC as soon as possible. RTC fishery officers can collect fish that have perished for tissue and scale sampling.
Working Together. As custodians of the River Tweed, we all have a role to play in ensuring the health and resilience of our fish populations, particularly under increasing climate pressures. Your support and responsible action during periods of environmental stress are greatly appreciated. For further information or to report any issues, please contact us at River Tweed Commission
