Salmon Catches on the River Tweed Show Significant Improvement in 2024
The publication of the River Tweed Commission (RTC) annual report for 2024, reported on a significant improvement in salmon catches during the 2024 fishing season. A total of 9,947 salmon were landed by rods, with an additional 483 caught by nets. This represents an increase of 3,076 salmon above the five-year average of 6,871, marking the highest rod catch recorded since 2013.
Favourable fishing conditions contributed to this success. While the early season saw below-average catches, periodic rises in water levels helped salmon move through the system. Water temperatures remained around average throughout the year, creating optimal conditions for angling. However, the primary factor behind the increase in catches appears to be a greater number of returning salmon. Anecdotal reports suggest that both grilse and multi-sea-winter salmon were more abundant in 2024.
A new record-high catch-and-release rate was also achieved on the Tweed this season. Of the 9,947 salmon caught by rods, an impressive 97.2% were returned to the river, reflecting the strong commitment of anglers to conservation efforts.
Jonathan Reddin, RTC Chief Commissioner, commented: "The 2024 season has been a positive one for the River Tweed, with encouraging numbers of returning salmon and a record-high release rate of 97.2% returned to the river highlights the dedication of our angling community"
“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. This will help ensure that the successes achieved in 2024 can be replicated in future seasons”.
Catches remained below average until June, with lower parts of the river, which is typically the most productive in the spring, affected by seals which appeared to push the fish further upriver. However, from June onwards, catches were above average, peaking in August and September, when numbers were nearly double the five year average. As is typical for Tweed, fish entering the river reduced in numbers with catches during October and November in line with historical trends.
Jamie Stewart, Clerk to the RTC, added: "The improved catches this year are a welcome sign, and we are grateful to all those who practice 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."
The Tweed Foundation will further analyse scale samples collected as part of the Marine Directorate’s adult sampling programme and review catches at index beats to gain deeper insights into this year’s salmon population.
This positive outcome offers hope for the Tweed’s salmon stocks. The RTC remains committed to ongoing conservation and management efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of this iconic fishery.
For further information, please contact:
Anne Woodcock
Communications
River Tweed Commission & Tweed Foundation
Email anne@tweedfoundation.org.uk
The River Tweed Catchment
The River Tweed catchment spans approximately 5,000 square kilometres, covering parts of Scotland and northern England. It is one of the most renowned salmon rivers in the UK, supporting diverse aquatic life and a rich ecosystem.
Spawning and Nursery Habitats
The river has a vast network of tributaries that provide essential spawning and nursery habitats for Atlantic salmon, brown trout, and grayling. These areas are critical for maintaining healthy fish populations and ensuring successful reproduction. These waters feature clean, well-oxygenated gravel beds, which are vital for egg incubation and fry development.
Conservation
The River Tweed Commission and Tweed Foundation work together to protect the Tweed Catchment from environmental threats. Their efforts ensure the long-term health of the river’s fish populations and the sustainability of its world-class fisheries.
