Salmon Fishing Proposed River Gradings for 2024 Season: Island Communities Impact Assessment

Step Two – Gather data and identifying stakeholders

Questions addressed:

• What data is available about the current situation in the islands?
• Do you need to consult?
• How does any existing data differ between islands?
• Are there any existing design features or mitigations in place?

The assessment for the 2024 season has followed the methodology applied in previous years. While the methodology has not changed for the 2024 season, the assessment has been made using the most up to date information available from fish counters and catch data (up to and including the 2022 fishing season).

In accordance with the requirements of paragraphs 10 and 11 of schedule 1 of the 2003 Act, the Scottish Ministers have consulted with such persons they considered appropriate and have given notice of the general effect of their proposals by way of an advertisement in three national newspapers. Additionally, stakeholders, who have given their consent, have been notified via email directly.

The data utilised in the assessment is collected at a local level with the status being assessed for 173 separate inland water assessment areas. The last five years of river gradings and the current proposed river gradings were made available to stakeholders during the consultation period.

There are no existing design features or mitigations in place, as all river assessment areas in Scotland are categorised according to their specific/local data provided.