Fly fishermen at Skjern Å have voluntarily decided to stop bringing home salmon due to a worrying decline in the salmon population. Even though the quota for salmon has not been reached yet, the fishermen have chosen to release the caught fish back into the river. This decision comes as a response to the significant decrease in the salmon population in the western Jutland river system, as seen in other waterways across Northern Europe.
The chairman of the Skjern Å Association, Michael Beck-Hansen, explains the decision: “We believe it is the right thing to do when catches have fallen by 70 to 75 percent compared to last year.” The association, representing both fishermen and landowners, made the decision at the end of May, meaning that fishing for salmon is still allowed, but taking them home is not.
According to the Danish Anglers’ Association, the decline in salmon is a challenge observed throughout Northern Europe, and investigations need to be carried out to determine the causes. Michael Beck-Hansen believes that several factors may be at play, including by-catch of industrial fishermen in the salmon’s first year in saltwater between Norway and Iceland, as well as unfavorable conditions at Hestholm Lake where many salmon are at risk of becoming prey for pike and cormorants.
The reduced salmon population also has economic consequences for the local area. Beck-Hansen mentions that the store in Borris has experienced a 20 percent decrease in revenue because fewer fishermen are visiting the area. This not only affects the store but also other local businesses such as hotels, supermarkets, and bed & breakfast establishments.
However, Michael Beck-Hansen is optimistic and believes that the situation can be turned around with “great attention” and “many good efforts.” “Skjern Å has always been a mecca for salmon fishing. We have a weak year this year, but we will change that,” he says.
The voluntary effort from the fishermen hopes to contribute to reversing the trend and ensuring a strong salmon population in the future.