Positive Outlook in 2007 for Upper Deeside

Conservation policies begin to bear fruit for Upper Deeside salmon stocks

Anglers can look forward to an enjoyable salmon-fishing season on the Upper Deeside beats thanks to on-going conservation and habitat protection projects, predicts Michael Bruce, Owner of Glen Tanar Estate, Aboyne.

Last year was one of the best fishing seasons on Deeside in years, and the local fishing industry is hopeful that 2007 will see a continuation of recent progress.

“Over the last few years there have been a number of sustainability and habitat management schemes, such as ‘catch and release’, introduced which have successfully boosted Salmon numbers on the upper stretches of the Dee, and we are delighted to have been able to play a part in this recovery, although there is obviously still some way to go,” said Michael.

“The legal fishing season on Deeside begins on the first of February, but at Glen Tanar we voluntarily delay the start of our season until March 1, a trend which is repeated along the Upper Deeside beats, because it allows us to better conserve stocks.”

Edward Humphrey, Chairman of the Dee Salmon Fishing Improvement Association, said “We are glad that the conservation code is being followed along the River Dee. For the last four years figures for ‘catch and release’ have been over 90% which is good news, and we are constantly striving to maintain that percentage.”

Visitors to the Glen Tanar Estate this year will also benefit from a number of improvements which were implemented over the winter shutdown. “We have improved access to the beats, including introducing a track along the Craigendinnie beat allowing an easier approach for our fishers,” said Michael. “In addition, Ghillies will also be provided on this stretch throughout the summer this year after the number of catches there doubled over the last two years. Banks at the Lorne and Crofts pools have also undergone upgrading.”

Demand for fishing at Glen Tanar is strong this year, with enthusiasts coming from all over Europe and even further afield, to take advantage of the variable fishing sessions. “We decided a couple of years ago to introduce ‘flexible fishing’, so that visitors could choose to fish for part of the week, or even just a day, rather than being constrained by the traditional week long lets.”

“Since 2002, the average number of fish caught on Deeside has risen as a whole, so the prospects are generally good for this season. However, we need to ensure that we don’t rest on our laurels, but continue to work hard to safeguard fish stocks and promote their regeneration,” continues Michael. “The mild conditions should also mean that the salmon have been able to move a fair way upstream. We are optimistic that this will be a successful year for fishing at Glen Tanar, which would mean that our guests are less likely to have to tell the story about the one that got away!”

Set in the heart of Royal Deeside and in the Cairngorms National Park, the Glen Tanar Estate offers a wealth of activity for visitors including walks, cycling, riding and trout and salmon fishing. There are five self catering cottages on Glen Tanar Estate, which can accommodate a total of 28 guests. The Glen Tanar Estate Ballroom is available for functions from Weddings to Conferences.

For more information on Glen Tanar Estate visit www.glentanar.co.uk or contact 013398 86451.