Dee Conservation Code

The Dee Conservation Code 2026

The Dee Conservation Code 2026 sets out the regulations for fishing the Dee.

A. The season will run from 2nd February to 15th October up to Aboyne Bridge. Above Aboyne Bridge the season will close on 30th September.

B. Prior to 1st April it is a criminal offence to retain a salmon or grilse. By law any salmon or grilse that is severely injured or damaged, dies or is killed before this date, must be returned to the river.

C. On the Cowie and Carron it is illegal to kill a salmon or grilse throughout the entire season.

D. It is illegal to sell rod caught wild salmon or sea trout.

E. All pink salmon must be killed, retained and reported to the River Office on the 24-hr number 013398 80411.

F. Irrespective of the date of capture, all fish handling should be kept to a minimum to avoid damage and stress. Take extra care when river water temperatures increase above 18°C and avoid fishing altogether when temperatures exceed 20°C. Guidelines on how to do this are available on https://riverdee.org.uk/fish-handling/

G. All anglers are required to disinfect waders and landing nets prior to fishing to prevent the introduction of Gyrodactylus salaris and other diseases to the Dee. Further information is available
at https://riverdee.org.uk/biosecurity/

H. No treble hooks to be used for either fly fishing or spinning.

I. At the beat’s discretion, spinning is a permitted option for the whole river between 1st February and 15th April. In addition, also at the beat’s discretion, spinning is permitted in August and September from the top of Maryculter Beat downstream. It is recommended that fly fishing should always be given a fair try in preference to spinning. Note spinning is not permitted anywhere in October. No more than 1 hook per lure to be used.

J. On the Dee after 1st April any fish severely injured or damaged, dies or is killed, should be handed to the proprietor. This applies to all beats.

Remember, the Dee District Salmon Fishery Board needs the vital help of all Proprietors, Ghillies and Anglers to realise the twin objectives of sustaining and enhancing the river’s fish stocks and maintaining a viable thriving fishery.