Protecting Fish

Protecting Fish on the River Dee

Poaching

Atlantic salmon face increasing pressures, and our fisheries protection team works with government agencies and the wildlife crime unit to prevent illegal fishing across the Dee catchment. Our officers patrol throughout the season using modern technology, riverbank observations, and information from beat owners, ghillies, guides, and the public.
Report poaching concerns 24/7: 01339 880411

Predation

Salmon face natural predators throughout their lifecycle. To protect vulnerable smolts, our “Smolt Shepherds” carry out dawn patrols each May, supported by regular bird counts that inform licensing decisions. Seal activity in winter also poses risks, and we are developing new sonar‑based “detect and deter” technology with the Sea Mammal Research Unit.

Pollution

Pollution incidents, from construction discharge to sewage effluent, can severely damage water quality and wildlife. We encourage everyone to report pollution immediately to the SEPA hotline: 0800 80 70 60.