2015 Annual Report Including Accounts to Year Ending 15 May 2015

NESS DISTRICT SALMON FISHERY BOARD

www.ness.dsfb.org.uk

2015 Annual Report

Contents

Contents ...... i Acronyms and Abbreviations ...... ii Foreword ...... 1 About Us ...... 2 Our Team ...... 3 The Ness System ...... 5 What We Do ...... 7 Key 2015 Operational Statistics ...... 8 Latest Catch Statistics ...... 9 Latest Fish Counter Data ...... 14 Fisheries Monitoring ...... 16 Fisheries Management...... 24 Emergency Works ...... 36 Fisheries Enforcement ...... 39 Fisheries Development ...... 45 Wild Fisheries Review ...... 49 Compliance with Good Governance Obligations ...... 54 Key Priorities for the Forthcoming Year...... 57 Financial Summary ...... 58

2015 Annual Report

Acronyms and Abbreviations

AS3IG Assessment of Salmon Stocks in Scotland: Integrating Genetics CAR Controlled Activities Regulations CL Conservation Limit DSFB District Salmon Fishery Board FMO Fisheries Management Organisation IAC Inverness Angling Club IFM Institute of Fisheries Management INNPS Invasive Non Native Plant Species MH Marine Harvest MFTI Moray Firth Trout Initiative MSS Marine Scotland Science MSW Multi Sea Winter NASCO North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation NBFT Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust NDSFB Ness District Salmon Fishery Board PAW Partnership Against Wildlife Crime PFA Pre Fishery Abundance PIT Passive Integrated Transponder RLI Rivers and Lochs Institute SAC Special Area of Conservation SEPA Scottish Environment Protection Agency SNH Scottish Natural Heritage SSE Scottish and Southern Energy SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest THC The Highland Council UHI University of the Highlands and Islands WEF Water Environment Fund

2015 Annual Report

Foreword

CHAIRMAN The last year has been the busiest and most challenging year for the board since it was formed and I would like to start by thanking Chris Conroy and his team for their excellent work and tremendous commitment. While our work on the river and in supporting and developing angling activities has been demanding, the "off river" activities have been no less demanding.

The Scottish Government’s Wild Fisheries Reform will soon see district salmon fishery boards disbanded and replaced by fewer, larger fisheries management organisations. While the government’s intentions are clear, the route to achieving them is not and we will continue to engage constructively in the process to do all we can to ensure a successful, deliverable and beneficial outcome. As part of the process the government intends to introduce conservation limits for salmon and, as I write this report, the Government classification of the Ness district would mean that no salmon could be killed next season. While this classification is currently under re-assessment, the future for our wild salmon is becoming ever clearer. With increasing world populations and consequent pressure on all marine life, the high seas no longer offer the haven for our salmon that they once did. It seems that the days of commercially harvesting mixed stock salmon fisheries in our coastal waters are just about at an end. We must do all we can to protect them when they make it back in to our estuaries and river systems.

I commend our local estuary net fishery for their voluntary conservation efforts in recent years. I also commend every angler, no matter what the regulatory regime requires, to take that step from being a "harvester" of this magnificent fish to being a true sportsman, and return your fish to breed and sustain a future for our sport. Michael Martin Chairman

DIRECTOR Early reports suggest a welcome improvement in catches for the 2015 season. Despite a slow start, the Ness system enjoyed its best ‘spring’ salmon catch in 20 years with over 300 fish reported. In terms of total catch, 2015 is on track to be the best for several years. We look forward to receiving the final detailed catch returns in due course.

This was an exceptionally busy year for the Ness board and its partners. In addition to our routine fisheries monitoring, management and enforcement duties, we hosted the annual Institute of Fisheries Management Scottish water bailiff seminar and Scotland’s first Salmon Festival. The feedback received from both events has been extremely positive. There are significant changes ahead in terms of the Scottish Government’s Wild Fisheries Reform process. We have already seen the introduction of statutory spring conservation measures and the Scottish Government’s ‘Kill Licence’ proposals could see mandatory catch and release introduced across the Ness district in 2016. Furthermore, it is likely that existing district salmon fishery boards will be replaced by a network of fewer, larger fisheries management organisations in the near future.

We will continue to make representation on behalf of salmon and sea trout fisheries across the Ness district to ensure that any new systems or regulations are fit for purpose. Thank you for all your support over the last year. Chris Conroy Director

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About Us

The Ness District Salmon Fishery Board (NDSFB) is a statutory body responsible for the protection and enhancement of salmon and sea trout fisheries in the Ness district. It was constituted under the 1862 and 1868 salmon fisheries legislation, subsequently amended in the Salmon Act 1986 and the Salmon Conservation (Scotland) Act 2001 and more recently amalgamated under the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003.

Salmon fishing rights in Scotland are private heritable titles that are registered separately from land. As such these titles can be bought and sold like any other property. In Scotland, the cost of the local administration, protection and improvement of the fisheries is privately financed by the proprietors.

Lewis MacGruer with a 24lb ‘spring’ salmon caught from Loch Ness in April 2015

The district boards finance their work by levying a rate on the salmon fishery owners in the district. The 2003 Act states that a district board shall have the power to impose an assessment, to be known as the fishery assessment, on each salmon fishery in their district. The fishery assessment is assessed at such uniform rate as is determined for all fisheries in the district by the board and shall be levied according to the valuation of a fishery as entered onto the valuation roll.

Elected representatives of those salmon fishery owners provide the core of the membership of the board. Since 1986, the boards are required also to include representatives of salmon anglers and salmon netsmen in the district. A further revision to the constitution of the boards was made in 1999 to allow for even wider representation on the boards by other parties who may have an interest in salmon stocks or fisheries.

A district salmon fishery board may do such acts, execute such works and incur such expenses as may appear expedient for:

 The protection or improvement of the fisheries within their district;

 The increase of salmon (and sea trout); or

 The stocking of the waters of the district with salmon (and sea trout).

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Our Team

BOARD MEMBERS

Board members are elected triennially with the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003 specifying who may stand for election, how many may be elected and how many may represent the lower and upper proprietors. The latest elections took place in September 2013. Board members are all volunteers and are non-remunerated for their time and effort. The elected board members subsequently elect one of the members to be their chairman. The current board members are as follows:

Representatives of Upper Michael Martin, Dochfour (Chairman) Proprietors Andrew R. Duncan, Ness Castle (Vice Chairman) Paul Williamson, River Garry Annie Girvan, River Moriston Ryan Rutherford, Ness-side

Representatives of Lower Ken Gowans, Highland Council Proprietors

Co-optees Alexander Patience, Netsmen Graham Mackenzie, Anglers Angus MacGruer, Anglers Alan Scott, Anglers Neil Cameron, Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust

The director/clerk attends board meetings without voting powers. Other non-voting attendees represent Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust (NBFT) Senior Biologist.

BOARD STAFF

The board employs a number of full and part time staff responsible for the day to day management and delivery of its core duties and responsibilities:

Director/Clerk to the Board Chris Conroy

Head Water Bailiff John MacColl

Seasonal Water Bailiff Billy Orrock

Secretary to the Board April Conroy

Voluntary Water Bailiffs Graham Mackenzie Ryan Rutherford Gordon Armstrong Nick Barker Chris Daphne

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A TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM ARMSTRONG

Ness fishery board member Willie Armstrong sadly passed away on Thursday 14th May 2015 after almost 10 years of bravely battling against cancer in the form of a brain tumour.

In the late 1970’s Willie became a partner in the fishing and shooting shop of John Graham and Company in Inverness. Willie enjoyed the outdoor life having been brought up on a farm and shooting was his favourite pastime, followed very closely by salmon fishing. He became sole proprietor of the business when his partner retired and he moved it into larger premises on Castle Street where it is currently based. Willie was a very successful businessman but was forced to retire in 2008 due to serious health issues.

Willie with a 15 pound salmon from the Laggan beat of the River Ness in April 1983 (Graham’s of Inverness)

During his time at the helm of Graham’s, Willie was always generous with his help for local causes and charities. Through his premises, daily, weekly and season tickets were sold, commission free, on behalf of the Inverness Angling Club (IAC), of which he was a much respected honorary member. This gesture alone minimised a huge administrative burden for club officials and made access to salmon and trout fishing on the River Ness much easier for locals and visitors to obtain. Over many years Graham’s was also responsible for sponsoring Anglers’ Corner at the Highland Field Sports Fair, run by IAC, and in addition donated many a prize for the casting competitions.

During the late 1990’s, Willie became increasingly concerned at the decline in salmon numbers. As a proprietor of a small beat on the River Oich he joined the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board with a view to addressing the problems on the Rivers Garry and Oich. To everyone’s surprise Willie was one of the first fishery owners on the Ness system to introduce compulsory catch and release – he wasn’t afraid to lead by example. Subsequent studies of fish populations on these rivers had indicated that salmon numbers had been severely depleted and an ambitious 15 year plan to enhance fish stocks, strongly supported by Willie, was started in 2014. Sadly, Willie will not see the results of these efforts.

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The Ness System

The Ness catchment is the largest in the North Highlands and drains approximately 2000 square kilometres of land. The upper reaches extend almost to the west coast, close to Loch Hourn and Loch Nevis. The land drains east and north through the Great Glen before entering the sea in the Moray Firth at Inverness. For management purposes the district can be sub-divided into seven key management units.

Ness System Fishery Management Units

Some features of this map are based on digital spatial data licensed from the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, © CEH. Includes material based on Ordnance Survey 1:50,000 maps with the permission of the controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright.

Each of these management units is described in further detail below:

 Ness Coastal - Inverness Firth and smaller coastal burns, particularly important for sea trout but also salmon;

 River Ness – The temperature of the main River Ness is kept artificially high by Loch Ness, so it has no temperature barrier. This unit also incorporates the key tributaries of the main river, including the Holm Burn and Allt na Skiach Burn;

 Loch Ness and Small Tributaries – The famous loch extends to 37km with smaller tributaries, the mouths of which are important spawning areas for salmon, trout and Arctic charr;

 Rivers Enrick and Coiltie – Flowing into Urquhart Bay and supporting one of only a few alluvial woods

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remaining in the United Kingdom, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Also thought to be important spawning areas for summer and autumn salmon and grilse;

 River Moriston – Designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for freshwater pearl mussel and Atlantic salmon. It supports an important ‘spring’ salmon fishery and is heavily impacted by large scale hydro-electric schemes;

 Rivers Garry and Oich – Separated by Loch Oich. The River Oich runs parallel to the Caledonian Canal with extensive modifications being made to the river during its construction. Both the Garry and the Oich support important ‘spring’ salmon fisheries and are heavily impacted by large scale hydro-electric schemes; and

 Rivers Tarff, Foyers and Farigaig – All support salmon populations to a greater or lesser degree and form important juvenile and nursery areas. They are, however, less important in terms of angling. The Tarff and Foyers are impacted by hydro-electric schemes.

In addition to the above, the Caledonian Canal intersects the Ness system at various points. The canal runs some 60 miles (97 km) from north-east to south-west. Only one third of the entire length is man-made, the rest being formed by Loch Dochfour, Loch Ness, Loch Oich and Loch Lochy (in the neighbouring catchment).

The River Ness in Inverness May 2015

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What We Do

FISHERIES MONITORING

The NDSFB works in close partnership with the NBFT and others to gain a detailed and up to Fisheries Science & date understanding of the status of salmon and Monitoring sea trout populations within the district. This Gaining a detailed and up to date information allows us to make an informed understanding of assessment of the potential impacts of the status of fish stocks and habitats development proposals, assess applications for scientific and other exemptions to the 2003 Act and to inform our fisheries management activities.

FISHERIES MANAGEMENT Fisheries Management The production of juvenile salmon and sea trout Carrying out in a river system is limited by the availability of informed practical actions to address good quality spawning and nursery habitat. The problems identified principle aim of our fisheries management by the science & monitoring activities is to maximise the natural production of salmon and sea trout in the Ness system through the protection and enhancement of spawning success and juvenile survival. We work with a wide range of partners to achieve these aims and objectives.

FISHERIES ENFORCEMENT

The NDSFB employs a team of highly Primary Objective experienced and Institute of Fisheries Maximising natural production Management (IFM) Certified water bailiffs through the protection and responsible for the enforcement of the Salmon enhancement of spawning success and juvenile survival and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003. Our water bailiffs carry out regular patrols of the catchment throughout the year. They work closely with Police Scotland and officers from other law enforcement agencies.

FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT

Fishing effort on the Ness system has been in decline for a number of years. The fewer the rods fishing the lower the annual catch. This has Fisheries a ‘knock on’ effect of further discouraging Enforcement anglers from fishing, i.e. a ‘vicious circle’. It is Preventing the illegal exploitation vitally important that measures are taken to of fish break the circle and encourage more rods on the river, both in the short and longer term.

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Key 2015 Operational Statistics

FISHERIES Juvenile Salmonid  48 fully quantitative and 17 timed electric fishing surveys were Surveys completed across the Ness district by the NBFT in 2015. MONITORING Other  Coastal sea trout surveys, scale sampling programme, tagging programme and AS3IG Genetics Project. FISHERIES Improving Access  A total of 14 burns cleared with eight still to complete. Overall burns looking good this year; and MANAGEMENT  Fish barrier assessment completed on the bridge apron/culvert at Polmaily Burn, a tributary of the River Enrick. Identifying and  Rough Burn fish passage improvements; mitigating problems  Caledonian Canal Breach;  Whin Park Lade fish rescue; and  Holm Burn fish pass improvements. Monitoring, control  Continued participation in the Moray Firth Seal and Saw Bill and management of Management groups; Predators  Successful seal and bird licence applications made in 2015/2016; and  Approximately 40 volunteers monitoring mink rafts, 10 trapping through the area and two captures since April 2014. Managing the  The NDSFB, working in partnership with the Beauly District Salmon exploitation of Fishery Board, agreed another compensation payment with the returning adults proprietors of two netting stations to cease netting during the 2015 season until at least May 2016; and  Our Conservation Policy continues to be a success with an overall 2014 release rate of 87 per cent and a ‘spring’ release rate of 99.5 per cent. Consultations  During 2014 the board commented on three transport proposals, one dredging proposal, three barrier improvements, one Water Framework Directive consultation, three herbicide applications, one aquaculture proposal, one terrestrial windfarm, two off shore windfarms, seven micro hydro schemes, three large scale hydro consultations, four emergency works and one banks works; and  The board also consented applications for four fish removals. FISHERIES Coastal Patrols  No boat patrols completed in Moray Firth Area due to problems with the patrol boat; and ENFORCEMENT  Over 80 coastal foot patrols completed throughout the year, 10 individuals advised to buy permits for sea trout, with Police assistance required on two occasions. River Patrols Individuals found fishing without permission or using illegal methods:  Over 21 individuals on the River Ness up to Loch Dochfour;  22 individuals fishing from the shores of Loch Ness;  Six individuals from boats on Loch Ness and Loch Dochfour;  Five individuals on the River Moriston;  Over 16 individuals on the River Oich and three on the River Garry;  12 Individuals on the Enrick; and  To date, 24 people fishing outside the fishing seasons. Illegal Instruments  One illegal net was found on the coast this year, three set lines were found in the upper system together with a number of minnows and minnow traps. Court Cases  Six individuals charged and still court pending; and  One person fined £200 for offence committed last year; another fined £100. One person found guilty but subsequently admonished and another given a Procurator Fiscal warning. FISHERIES Promoting Angling on  The board has a Facebook page with 685 followers and Twitter DEVELOPMENT the River Ness account with 453 followers, in addition to its webpage (www.ness.dsfb.org.uk). These are used to promote the Ness system as a whole; and  The Ness DSFB sat on the steering group of the extremely successful Scotland’s Salmon Festival event held in Inverness in September 2015.

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Latest Catch Statistics

Information relating to adult run size is an essential management tool for any district salmon fishery board. Catch returns are the main indicator of adult run size available for the Ness system. Catch statistics are collected annually by Marine Scotland Science (MSS) for all fishery districts in Scotland. In addition to this, district salmon fishery boards are able to collect data directly from proprietors twice per year.

As a considerable historical data set exists (1952 to 2014), the size of the run can be used as a measure of its status by comparing the annual run against a long-term average run size. Unfortunately the 2015 catch data was not available in time for inclusion in this report. Please note that the data used throughout this section are Crown copyright, used with the permission of MSS, who are not responsible for interpretation of these data by third parties.

SCOTTISH ROD CATCH

The total reported Scottish rod catch (retained and released) of wild salmon and grilse for 2014 was 45,175. To put this into perspective, the reported catch has dropped each year since its peak in 2010 when a total of 110,496 fish were reported, with 2014 being the second lowest since 1952 when government in Scotland first started to record the data. The 2014 reported rod catch was 33 per cent lower than 2013, when a total of 67,468 fish were reported, and 53 per cent of the previous five year average.

Comparison of the total annual Ness district catches with the national total (1989 to 2014)

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NESS DISTRICT SALMON ROD CATCHES

A total of 815 rod caught salmon were reported across the Ness district during the 2014 season. This indicates a 12 per cent decrease in catches from the 930 fish reported in 2013, with catches below both the five and ten year averages (935 fish and 1,117 fish respectively). Overall, we have seen a general trend for decreasing catches on the Ness system since 2007.

Total Ness district rod catches of salmon (salmon and grilse combined) 1952-2014

3500 3266

3000 2796

2500

2355

2275

2140

2113

2107

2022 1958

2000 1934

1865

1852

1823

1730

1725

1721

1715

1679

1664

1662

1584

1569

1566

1546

1471

1423 1388

1500 1386

1380

1378

1366

1361

1315

1263

1257

1220

1218

1206

1174

1166

1118

1114

1102

1072

1048

948

934

930

923 917

1000 910

No. Rod Caught Fish (Salmon & & (Salmon No. Caught Rod Grilse) Fish

847

815

812

805

789

781

771

645

634

621

596 595

500

1963 1973 1996 2006 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Year

Salmon and grilse 5 year average

The 324 grilse reported across the Ness District in 2014 made up 40 per cent of the total salmon catch. This was 16 per cent lower than the 385 grilse recorded in 2013 and below the five and ten year averages (387 fish and 483 fish respectively). There has been an overall trend for decreasing grilse numbers since the peak of 746 fish recorded in 2007.

Ness district grilse (1SW salmon) catches over the last 63 years (1952 to 2014)

800

746 733

700

606 599

600

566

561

485 480

500 477

469

445

391

386 385

400 374

367

366

351

326

324

305

300

297

289

No.Rod Caught Fish 286

300 282

271

268

264

259

250

248

246

241

217

200

199

189 187

200 180

169

168

166

154

152

151

148 148

132

129

122

117

111

110

102

96 96 92

100 78

59 50

1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Year

Grilse 5 Year Average

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The 491 multi sea winter (MSW) salmon reported across the Ness district in 2014 made up 60 per cent of the total salmon catch. This was 10 per cent lower than the 545 MSW salmon recorded in 2013 and below the five and ten year averages (548 fish and 634 fish respectively). There has been a long-term decline in MSW salmon catches since the peak of 3,079 fish recorded in 1964, with a particularly pronounced fall after 1995. However, the latest five year average indicates the very early signs of improvement, with a year on year increase for the first time in seven years.

Ness district multi sea winter (MSW) salmon catches over the last 63 years (1952 to 2014)

3500 3079

3000 2555

2500 2187

2000 1947

1783

1754

1725

1709

1672

1663

1578

1510

1501

1484

1478 1470

1500 1430

1374

1355

1329 1329

1327

1280

1271

1259

No.Rod Caught Fish

1179

1166

1140 1140

1132

1090

1072

1046

986

947

942 924

1000 892

846 846

777

734

725

709

689

666

660

657

651

629

617

616

605

595

550

545

521

512

504

491

485 480 500 443

Multi Sea Winter Salmon 5 Year Average

Splitting the MSW catches into their ‘spring’ (January to May) and ‘summer and autumn’ (June to October) components provides further detail regarding their current status.

A total of 206 spring MSW salmon were reported across the Ness district in 2014. This was above the 5 year average of 199 fish, but a fall of 21 per cent from the 260 recorded in 2013. Despite this, an overall trend for increasing salmon catches since 2010 continues. In other words, although the ‘spring’ component is still in long-term decline, it is showing signs of improvement.

Ness district ‘spring’ MSW salmon catches (January to May) over the last 63 years (1952 to 2014)

700

611 598

600

570 552

500

463

445

427

425

416

398 395

400 379

356

351

346

344

329

328

312

304

302

297 286

300 279

266

264

250

249

244

243

240

238

235

231

226 226

No.Rod Caught Fish

223 223

222

211

208

206 206

203

198

196 186

200 174

166

163 163

150

148

142

138

136

123

106

101

90 85

100 72

Total Spring Catch (Jan to May) 5 Year Average

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A summer and autumn MSW salmon catch of 285 fish was reported across the Ness district in 2014, compared to 281 fish in 2013. This is below the five year average catch of 349 fish. It was the third lowest annual summer and autumn salmon catch in 63 years. Only those recorded in 1955 (158 fish) and 2013 (281 fish) were lower. This suggests a long-term decline in summer/autumn salmon, with little if any sign of recovery at present.

Ness district summer and autumn MSW salmon catches over the last 63 years (1952 to 2014)

3000 2634

2500

2000 1944

1792

1523

1486

1434 1395

1500 1377

1358

1327

1261

1238

1222

1144

1126

1095

1094

1079

1074

1065

1061

1024

978

No.Rod Caught Fish

949 942

1000 912

864

860

854

800

774

749

744

742

725

716

698

683

677

641

640

614

539

519

509

503

455

444

440

432

420

414 408

500 405

352

346 346

331

306

289

285

281 158

Summer & Autumn Salmon 5 Year Average

NESS DISTRICT SEA TROUT ROD CATCHES

The Moray Firth once supported a prolific rod and line fishery for sea trout, with the total annual reported Ness district catch peaking at 3,540 fish in 1960. Since that time catches have steadily decreased. A total sea trout catch of just 47 fish was reported during the 2014 season; the lowest on record.

Total Ness district sea trout catches (adult and finnock combined) over the last 63 years (1952 to 2014)

4000 3540 3500

3000 2909

2500 2333

2000

1821

1817

1806

1780

1603 1446

No. Caught Rod Fish 1500

1043

1041

918 908

1000 894

779

720

709

705

699

631

591

568

554

517

512

501

499

496

488

472

465

411

407

403 380

500 363

333

313

312

301

275

269

256

253

247

234

198

195

169

153

62 62

57 57

54 47

1957 1968 1979 1990 2001 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Year

Sea Trout 5 Year Average

The Ness DSFB is helping to address declining sea trout catches through its involvement with the Moray Firth Trout Initiative (MFTI). This is a collaborative project formed by local fishery boards and trusts from around the Moray Firth to conserve local wild trout populations.

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NASCO ROD CATCH TOOL

The Association of Salmon Fishery Boards (ASFB) recommends that all DSFBs utilise the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation’s (NASCO) rod catch tool in order to assess the status of salmon stocks. It is recommended that rod catches from the last 20 years (combined salmon and grilse, both retained and released) are split into three components (see attached):

 Spring (February-May);

 Summer(June-August); and

 Autumn (September-November).

Spring, summer and autumn caught fish tend to belong to populations in the upper, middle and lower parts of a catchment, respectively. The annual catches for each should then be ranked (lowest to highest) and the following three questions asked for each of the components:

 Question 1 - Identify the lowest value. Is it also the most recent value over the 20 year period?

 Spring - NO

 Summer - NO

 Autumn – NO

 Question 2 - Identify the lowest three values. Are two or more of these values found in the last three years?

 Spring - NO

 Summer - NO

 Autumn – NO

 Question 3 - Identify the lowest six values. Are four or more of these values found in the last six years?

 Spring - NO

 Summer - YES

 Autumn – NO (but very close)

The NASCO rod tool recommends that if the answer to one or more of these questions is YES then steps should be taken to reduce exploitation on the relevant stock component. An investigation should also be carried out to determine whether there is a specific local problem impacting upon the stock component. Furthermore, catch monitoring should continue on an annual basis and the management action should be continued until all the answers to the questions are NO.

The results of our assessment indicate that for the summer component, the answer to question three is YES indicating a problem with the summer salmon catches in the mid to lower system (River Ness and Loch Ness). Further to this, three values are amongst the lowest six in the case of the autumn component (2012, 2013 and 2014). If the Ness has another poor autumn catch in 2015, then this too will fail the NASCO assessment.

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Latest Fish Counter Data

Fish counter information is available from two sites within the Ness District, both of which are operated by SSE. One is located on the River Moriston (Dundreggan Dam) and the other on the River Garry (Invergarry Dam). Areas upstream of the two fish counters represent only a proportion of the total area within the Ness catchment accessible to migratory fish; therefore the data should only be used for indicative purposes.

The counters operate on the principle that the body of a fish has lower electrical resistance than the surrounding water. Three electrodes are mounted across the flow of a counting channel. The distance between the electrodes determines the length of fish detected and the magnitude of the change in resistance provides an indication of the size of the fish responsible. The direction in which the fish is travelling can be determined by the shape of the signal.

Salmon passing through the counters on Dundreggan (left) and Garry (right) dams

The total annual count and five year averages for the Dundreggan Counter on the River Moriston are presented below. Despite an overall long-term trend for decreasing counts, we have seen an increase in recent years. The 2013 count (454 fish) was the highest for 31 years, last exceeded in 1980 when 572 fish were recorded. The number fell once again to 282 fish in 2014.

Number of salmon ascending Dundreggan Dam 1969 to 2014

700 572

600 570 510

500 479

454

446

403

393

387

376 376 376

400 375

356

353

352

322

321

320

310

309

297

286

282 278

300 273

262

250

249

248

247

245

243

233

228

219 213

200 186

153

152

135

123 119

100 49

1983 1996 2013 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2014

Annual Counts 5 Year Average

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The picture at the Invergarry counter is very different, with the number counted having declined over the last 50 years and showing little sign of recovery. Historical annual counts of 600 to 800 salmon have now reduced to a five year average of 49 fish, although the 2014 total count (58 fish) was above the five year average. Electro-fishing data from recent surveys suggests that in the Upper Garry juvenile salmon numbers are critically low.

Number of salmon ascending Invergarry Dam 1956 to 2014

1200

1000 954

783

770 753

800 750

596 564

600 559

515

426

409

405

381

377 371

400 345

331

320 320

290

281

280

269

259

258

230

226

198

192

182

166 162

200 150

141

135 135

116

114

110

105

78 78

69 69

14 7

1975 1982 1989 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Annual Counts 5 Year Average

The final fish counts for 2015 are not yet available; however, the photograph below is of particular interest. It shows the head and pectoral fins of a female salmon (sex determined from head shape) going through the Invergarry counter in August 2015. The distance between each of the electrodes (the three strips of wire running from top to bottom of the image) is 45cm. This means that the front third of this fish is approximately 40cm, total length approximately 120cm or 47 inches, meaning that this fish was approximately 40 pounds in weight. It is good to see fish of this size returning to the Garry as it was once famous for large fish.

A large fish passing through the Garry Dam in August 2015

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Fisheries Monitoring

The NDSFB, NBFT and others work together to gain a detailed and up to date understanding of the status of salmon and sea trout populations within the district. This information is essential in permitting an ‘evidence based’ approach to fisheries management.

SCALE SAMPLING PROGRAMME

During the 2014 fishing season, the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board (in partnership with the Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust) worked with local ghillies and anglers to collect scales from the fish they caught as part of a fish ageing study.

Scales can be removed without sacrificing the fish and grow back rapidly. They exhibit growth rings, similar to those found in trees. These rings are formed annually, as a result of seasonal fluctuations in growth, and can be used to give an indication of the age of a fish.

Example of an annotated scale photograph produced for anglers who have submitted scale samples

Scale samples were submitted from a total of 75 adult salmon captured between the 9th March and 9th October 2014. They were subsequently ‘aged’ using a microscope. The key findings of the study are as follows:

 A ‘spring’ salmon captured on the River Moriston was identified as a ‘previous spawner’, having entered the river and spawned, returned to the sea and then entered the river again for a second time;

 All the one sea winter (1SW) grilse and the majority of multi sea winter (MSW) salmon spent two years in freshwater as juveniles before migrating to the sea as smolts;

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 The total age of all the 1SW grilse sampled (freshwater and sea water combined) was three years. This compares to salmon which ranged between four and six years of age, the majority of which were found to have a total age of four years;

 A significant majority of scales from fish captured in March and April were found to have no ‘plus’ growth, indicating that they were ‘spring’ fish;

 Scale samples submitted in May were dominated by fish exhibiting ‘plus growth’; however, a significant proportion of ‘spring’ fish with no plus growth also featured;

 An eight pound salmon captured at the Little Isle on the River Ness in September was found to be a ‘spring’ salmon. This demonstrates that scale reading can be used to identify ‘spring’ fish throughout the season. It also confirms the presence of ‘spring’ salmon in the River Ness, which were previously thought to be limited to the upper catchment; and

 Scale data was used to identify the size ranges (in terms of weight) of both salmon and grilse. This has the potential to inform size limits which best protect specific components of the fishery.

A report presenting the detailed findings of the ‘2014 Adult Salmon Scale Sampling Programme’ can be downloaded on the Ness DSFB website, with scale sampling continuing during the 2015 season. The programme has continued in 2015, with a total of 79 Ness system salmon scale samples submitted.

Over the last couple of years, the Moray Firth Trout Initiative (of which the Ness DSFB is a partner) has been collecting scales from trout caught by boats on Loch Ness. These have been read by ferox trout experts Martin Hughes at the University of Glasgow and Aya Thorne at Marine Scotland Science. An example of a scale from an eight pound ‘ferox’ trout from Loch Ness, aged 13+ years old, is presented below.

Photograph of a scale from an eight pound brown trout (ferox) aged 13+ years old.

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TAGGING PROGRAMME

This simple tagging technique provides basic information about where an individual fish is at two times in its life (i.e. when it is caught and tagged, and when it is recaptured) and is known as ‘Mark and Recapture’.

Fish released by anglers are tagged using individually numbered and colour coded external anchor tags. Those fish captured on the River Ness are marked with yellow tags, those on the Moriston with white tags and those on the Oich with orange tags. The subsequent recapture of tagged fish is used to provide information about growth, stock identity, movements, migration (both rates and routes), abundance and mortality.

Releasing a ‘spring’ salmon with an external anchor tag next to dorsal fin

External tags have a high and known retention rate including during the recapture process. They remain readable over long periods of time and can be easily detected and readable when the tagged fish is recaptured. They do not significantly injure, kill or affect the behaviour of the fish or increase or decrease catchability or predation pressure.

The key practical management applications of the tagging programme are as an incentive for anglers to practice catch and release and to demonstrate that fish can survive and fully recover after having been caught and released. The initial results of the 2014 and 2015 programmes have demonstrated that fish can and do migrate between neighbouring river systems and also undergo ‘secondary’ migrations during the autumn period in the run up to spawning. Tagged fish have been photographed ascending through the fish pass on Dundreggan Dam on the River Moriston.

Good numbers of salmon have been tagged throughout the system in 2015, with reports of River Ness fish being recaptured in Urquart Bay on Loch Ness and close to the mouth of the River Moriston. We hope to receive specific details of all tagged fish and any recaptures with this year’s catch returns. The results of the 2014 and 2015 programmes will then be published on our website.

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ASSESSMENT OF SALMON STOCKS IN SCOTLAND: INTEGRATING GENETICS (AS3IG)

The conservation of stocks of Atlantic salmon requires that sufficient numbers of mature individuals return and spawn to produce the next generation of returning adults, defined by NASCO as a stock’s ‘conservation limit’ (CL). NASCO recommends that below this level exploitation should cease and, if possible, appropriate management action taken to restore stock abundance to its CL.

Conservation limits are currently defined as the numbers of spawners needed to fill a river with juveniles to provide for the maximum smolt production. This number is in practise determined by the expected mean number of eggs spawned per female and an estimate of the productive capacity of a river system; the latter is estimated based on measures of wetted area and habitat quality.

Numbers of returning spawners, pre-fisheries abundance (PFA), is most frequently estimated from catch statistics, but data from counters can also be used. Both these approaches are problematic. Furthermore, most river stocks can be expected to be composed of multiple breeding populations and some may be in better demographic health than others. As such, river-wide estimates of CL and stock status may not reflect actual conservation requirements within a river. Insight into stock status can also be gained in principle from estimates of juvenile abundance.

The Rivers and Lochs Institute (RLI) at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) Inverness College has established a research programme to investigate the concept of integrating genetic and demographic methods of Atlantic salmon stock assessment to develop a more accurate, informative and cost-effective approach to establishing stock conservation status.

Historical sources of quantitative and qualitative demographic information used in the assessment of Atlantic salmon stocks as well as the new source of information on numbers of breeders and stock diversity derived from molecular genetic markers.

The Atlantic salmon genome contains large amounts of information on the relatedness of individuals, their structuring into breeding populations, and the evolutionary relatedness of those populations. This information can, in principle, be used to both define the numbers and distribution of breeding populations as well as identify the population membership of individuals. While extracting this information poses challenges in identifying those parts of the genome that are most informative, as well as cost-effective methods for

19 of 66 2015 Annual Report extracting targeted information, considerable strides have been made and genetic techniques are being increasingly used in salmon management.

In addition to providing insight into population structuring, the genomic analysis of individuals within populations can provide robust information on the overall breeding size of a population and on the numbers of breeders that gave rise to a particular cohort. These are central determinants of population viability and abundance and ideal indicators of the conservation status. Their application to managing exploitation levels and defining conservation limits as currently defined requires establishing their relationship to total numbers of returning adults.

Genetics can provide estimators of the conservation status of both of an overall river stock as well as its constituent breeding populations (e.g. early and late running) by the genetic analysis of stratified random samples of juveniles across cohorts. The required samples can be collected by electrofishing under a wide range of river conditions in a fraction of the time required for detailed demographic assessments (e.g. three pass electrofishing). Though there is the added cost of genetic typing, manpower costs are substantially reduced and the information gained more robust and informative.

The research programme will be led by Professor Eric Verspoor and supported by Drs Mark Coulson (genetics) and Andrew Duncan (statistics), and have input from external experts in salmon stock assessment (Stephen Gregory, GWCT). The current partnership includes Scottish and Southern Electricity and a number of DSFBs and Trusts including the Ness DSFB. The programme of research encompasses one PhD and two to three linked MRes positions and commenced in January 2015 for a period of four years until the end of 2018.

BEAULY FIRTH SEA TROUT NETTING WITH THE MFTI

One of the key aims of the MFTI, to which the Ness DSFB is a partner, is to learn more about our local sea trout populations and how they use the marine environment and in particular the inner firths. In 2015 we continued our programme of coastal seine netting surveys to catch sea trout and collect length data, scales and conduct sea lice counts.

Staff from the NDSFB and NBFT hauling the net after a successful shot at ‘The Ferry’ at the mouth of the River Beauly

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A survey carried out at our outer Beauly Firth site at Phopachy in May 2015 produced a single sea trout ‘post smolt‘, one which had recently left freshwater. Rather than indicating an issue with sea trout numbers, it is more likely that adult sea trout were not present at this site in any significant numbers at this time of year. More positively, we did record large numbers of sprat, an important prey item for sea trout.

Sea trout post smolt and sprat captured at Phopachy in the Beauly Firth, May 2015

In June 2015 a new site was established at ‘The Ferry’ in the freshwater tidal reaches the River Beauly. Once again, no adult sea trout were recorded, with the catch instead being dominated by salmon parr. This was rather surprising given that the tidal reaches do not present ‘classic’ parr habitat. This observation suggests that salmon may utilise the tidal reaches of our river systems more than was previously thought, with potential implications with regards to wetted areas used to calculate conservation limits.

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JUVENILE SALMON SURVEYS

Until recently there was a distinct lack of information relating to the status and distribution of juvenile salmonid populations and their habitat in the Ness system. Over the last few years the NBFT has addressed this by completing a comprehensive programme of electro-fishing across the catchment. The following gives an initial overview of the results of the NBFTs 2015 survey programme.

River Ness Main Stem

In 2014, the NBFT reported record densities of salmon fry from their uppermost River Ness main stem electro- fishing site at Dochfour. The density of 417/100m2 was the highest ever recorded from both the Ness and Beauly Catchments during a fully quantitative survey. The site was revisited in 2015 and from the outset it was apparent that there were many more fry in the section compared to 2014.

The 2015 salmon fry density was a staggering 726/100m2. Older year classes of salmon parr were also well represented with a recorded density of 41/100m2. Quantitative surveys were also carried out at Ness Castle. Again, densities of juvenile salmon were significantly higher in 2015 with fry recorded at 371/100m2 – more than double the 2014 result of 133/100m2. There was also a perceived increase in parr density from 40/100m2 in 2014 to 50/100m2 in 2015. Time delineated surveys were also executed to investigate habitat utilisation of juvenile salmon in areas outwith the quantitative sites. Salmon fry were captured at each site from the tidal section downstream of Ness Bridge to Dochfour in numbers ranging from 2/minute to 16.2/minute.

River Enrick

Surveys of the River Enrick main stem were limited to a single site at Corrimony. During each quantitative electro-fishing survey, our team carry out a detailed assessment of the habitat which was fished. It was noted that the percentage of cobble substrate at the site had increased by 10 per cent whilst pebble had decreased by 10 per cent; presumably an artefact of high water events throughout the winter. It would appear that the winter floods have had a knock on effect on salmon fry numbers with the density dropping from 36/100m2 to 20/100m2. Conversely, parr density has remained very stable.

River Coiltie

Changes of habitat were also noted on the River Coiltie site at Lewiston. Again, it would appear that this may have affected the survival of salmon fry. The salmon fry density of 8/100m2 is the lowest ever recorded on the River Coiltie. However, older year classes of salmon parr were well represented at a density of 30/100m2; very much in line with previously recorded parr densities from the Coiltie site.

River Moriston

A series of timed surveys were carried out on the River Moriston by trust staff during work to investigate habitat utilisation of salmon on the main stem and the efficacy of the fish pass at Ceannacroc. Downstream of the Ceannacroc fish pass, salmon fry were found at each site in numbers ranging from 1.8/minute to 10.7/minute. Upstream of the fish pass, salmon fry were absent from all but one of the surveys. The precise reason for the relative dearth of fry upstream of the pass remains unclear. NBFT intend to monitor this situation closely in the coming year.

River Garry

The focus of the 2015 season was to repeat the baseline surveys of 2013 to inform the Upper Garry Restoration Project. Although the 2015 results have yet to be fully analysed, it would appear that densities of salmon fry on the main stem of the Lower River Garry have dropped significantly since 2014. This was most prominent at the site in Invergarry where salmon fry density dropped from 98/100m2 to 26/100m2.

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Interestingly, parr density appears to have remained more stable throughout the Lower River Garry and its main tributary: Allt na Caillichie.

Previous reports from NBFT have highlighted the distinct lack of juvenile salmon from the Loch Garry tributaries. The series of surveys carried out on these burns during 2015 reinforced previous results with salmon being recorded as present in three out of the ten sites in extremely low densities.

Results on the Upper River Garry were similarly disappointing, with juvenile salmon recorded as absent from 50 per cent of the sites surveyed. However, it should be noted that both salmon fry and parr were captured from a site on the Upper Garry that had previously yielded no salmon, albeit in very low numbers.

The River Kingie has long been heralded as the ‘engine room’ of the Garry system. It was therefore heartening to note the presence of salmon fry at each of the eight surveys carried out on the Kingie and its main tributary: Allt a’ Chin Bhric. It would appear that the majority of spawning took place in the area surrounding Allt a’ Chin Bhric during the winter of 2014. Most worthy of note is site KI/TIMED9 where numbers of salmon fry increased from 0.8/minute to 3.4/minute.

NBFT biologists carry out an electro-fishing survey on the River Kingie, tributary of the River Garry, in 2015

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Fisheries Management

The NDSFB and NBFT jointly published an up to date Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) in 2014. This sets out priority actions identified as being required for the management of fish populations within the Ness district. It provides a framework for the protection and enhancement of such populations and to ensure that their exploitation is undertaken in a sustainable manner. The lifespan of this FMP is six years, commencing in August 2014 and ending in August 2019, during which time it will be regularly reviewed.

VOLUNTARY MEASURES TO REDUCE EXPLOITATION

Given the overall trend for decreasing catches in the district, the Ness DSFB has taken measures to reduce the exploitation of all salmon, especially spring salmon, as much as possible.

Helge Dahlen with his 23.5 pound ‘spring’ salmon caught and released on the River Moriston in April 2015

Catch and Release

The Ness DSFBs angling Conservation Code for 2015 made the following recommendations:

 From the start of the season to 30 June all salmon should be released;

 Anglers should not fish with worms during this period in any part of the system;

 From 1 July to the end of the season all hen fish of any size and all cock fish over 10 pounds should be released;

 All coloured and gravid fish must be released;

 Anglers should not fish with worms in September or October in any part of the system; and

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 No more than one clean fish weighing less than 10 pounds may be retained per angler per day.

These voluntary conservation measures, introduced by the Ness DSFB in partnership with proprietors and anglers, have resulted in a significant improvement in the overall release rates. In 1997 only four per cent of all fish caught were released. By 2004 this increased to 28 per cent and it has risen virtually every year since. Reaching 72 per cent in 2011 was a breakthrough, with the 2014 release rate reaching a record 87 per cent.

Proportion of salmon and grilse released on the Ness system (1994 to 2014)

100%

90% 87%

80% 79%

75% 72%

70%

63%

62% 62% 60% 59%

50% 46% 44%

40% Release Rate(%)

30% 28%

25%

24%

22% 21%

20%

13% 9%

10% 7%

4% 4%

0% 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Year

Particular effort has gone towards protecting the vulnerable ‘spring’ component of the Ness district salmon populations. These fish are important not only in terms of their conservation value, but also their economic value. This is particularly true on the upper tributaries such as the River Moriston (designated as a Special Area of Conservation for freshwater pearl mussels and salmon), River Oich and the River Garry for which the ‘spring’ fish make up a large component of the rod catches.

The ‘spring’ release rates across the Ness district have increased from zero per cent in 1994 to 72 per cent in 2009 and an excellent 99.5 per cent in 2014. To put this in perspective, only one of the 206 spring salmon captured in 2014 was retained.

Proportion of ‘spring’ salmon (January to end of May) released on the Ness system (1994 to 2014)

99% 99% 98% 97% 100% 100%

90%

80% 77% 70%

70% 66%

60% 51%

50% 48% 43%

40%

35%

Release Rate(%) 30%

30% 20%

20% 17%

14% 12%

10%

0% 0% 0% 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Year

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Coastal Netting Agreements

Many of the original salmon netting stations in the Ness District were bought out by the Atlantic Salmon Conservation Trust in the 1980’s. These and a number of others are no longer operational, resulting in a significant reduction in the total numbers of net caught salmon reported in the district.

Total Ness district net salmon catches (salmon and grilse combined) over the last 63 years (1952 to 2014)

12000

10588 9959

10000 9404

8000 7880

7381

7092

7035

6885

6426

6309

6257

6050 5962

6000 5543

5317

5153

4998

4893

4709

4563

4477

4428

4288

3795

No.caughtnet fish 3872

4000 3583

3356

3060

2984

2918

2957

2834

2723 2533

2000 1678

1327

946

888

719

527

545

483

461

493

435

460

450

446

311

265

220

204

203

196

146

102

70 0

0 0

1955 1980 1986 2005 2011 1952 1953 1954 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2012 2013 2014 Year

Net and Coble Fixed Engine

The fixed engine or ‘bag net’ fishery closed in 1986. Those remaining are net and cobble fisheries, which use a ‘sweep net’ paid out from a boat and worked from the shore. The key remaining operational sweep netting stations in the Ness district are located at Rosemarkie, Longman and Alturlie Point. The Rosemarkie station ceased operating between 2007 and 2011 following a conservation agreement with the Ness DSFB. Fishing commenced once again in 2012 when 545 fish were reported.

A conservation agreement reached by the Ness and Beauly DSFBs with the Rosemarkie and Longman net and cobble operators in 2013 meant that these stations remained closed for the entire season. As a result the total Ness district net fishery catch reduced from 545 fish in 2012 to zero in 2013. This was the first time in at least 61 years that no fish were recorded by the net fishery. An extension to the agreement in 2014 and now 2015 will mean that salmon have free passage through the Inverness Firth and into the rivers of the Ness district for a third year in a row.

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PREDATOR MANAGEMENT

Significant numbers of goosanders, mergansers and cormorants frequent the Ness catchment. These birds predate on a wide range of fish species, with juvenile salmon and trout forming a major component of their diet. In particular, the relatively wide, shallow and clear waters of the River Ness below Loch Ness make ideal feeding grounds for these birds.

Sawbills are known to take advantage of ‘pinch points’ or ‘bottlenecks’ during smolt migrations. Cormorants will take larger prey items than sawbills, including adult trout and even small grilse. They are also known to cause damage to larger fish that they attack but are too large to swallow.

The Ness DSFB and NBFT teams completed detailed bird counts on the Rivers Ness and Beauly in April 2015. These fed into a detailed supporting document accompanying a Moray Firth wide Bird Management Licence application. The application was successful, permitting the shooting of a number of goosanders and mergansers as an aid to other non-lethal scaring techniques.

A bird damaged salmon smolt recorded on the River Garry in spring 2015

The abundance of salmon in the Upper River Garry has declined over the last fifty years and is showing little sign of recovery. This particularly fragile area of the system is currently subject to a restoration strategy. The ability to manage the fishing-eating bird populations in this area will help to aid the recovery of its salmon populations.

The River Moriston is designated as an SAC for freshwater pearl mussels and salmon, which play a vital role in the lifecycle of the mussel. The NBFT are undertaking an artificial encystment programme in the upper reaches of the river as part of the LIFE+ ‘Pearls in Peril’ project. This aims to increase the range of pearl mussels in the

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River Moriston. The licence to shoot birds as an aid to scaring will have the potential to reduce losses of encysted parr over the winter/spring period.

Heavily encysted salmon parr at one of the release sites on the River Moriston

The wide, shallow and clear waters of the River Ness make ideal feeding grounds for fish eating birds. The NASCO rod tool has identified a specific problem with summer salmon populations on the River Ness and Loch Ness. It recommends that management actions should be considered. The ability to shoot birds as an aid to scaring will provide further protection to this vulnerable stock component.

CONTROL OF INVASIVE NON-NATIVE SPECIES

The Inner Moray Firth Invasive Non-Native Plants Project aims to eradicate riparian invasive non-native plant species (INNPS) in the project area. The great majority of these are located along watercourses and on adjacent flood-prone areas in the Lower Ness, Lower Beauly and Nairn catchments. They can have a negative impact on fish habit quality.

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The NBFT sits on its steering group, together with representatives from other fisheries trusts, SNH, Urquhart Bay Woods and Highland Council. Coille Alba (which is leading the project) has been controlling INNPS in the Lower Ness catchment since 2008, initially in Glenurquhart, extending operations in 2011 to the environs of Inverness.

The main species of concern are giant hogweed, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam, but there are also smaller or more localised populations of other plants, especially white butterbur, American skunk cabbage, rhododendron and Tolmiea.

Japanese knotweed on the banks of the River Ness

The presence of INNPS in the Lower Ness catchment has been well mapped over the last few years. Nevertheless, new INNPS populations are still coming to light. These include a well-established colony of American skunk cabbage Lysichiton americanus along 400 metres of a burn at Ballindarroch. This burn feeds into the River Ness, and probably accounts for the occasional skunk cabbage records further downstream. Coile Alba has also recorded the presence of Tolmiea menziesii in Urquhart Bay Woods SSSI and a population of Tibetan cowslip Primula florindae at Tullich, near Loch Ruthven.

The NBFT continues to work with the Scottish Mink Initiative (SMI). They currently have over 40 volunteers monitoring rafts and traps throughout the Ness and Beauly catchments. There were 24 reported sightings for the period April 2014 to March 2015; some of these were multiple sightings with a total of 40 mink recorded. Many sightings of multiple mink are family groups seen around the dispersal period and some would be sightings of the same animal. The area around Bught Park and Holm Mills in Inverness is a particular hot spot and it is thought a number of mink may have set up territory in this area as it provides ideal habitat.

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An American mink successfully trapped on the Ness system

The same period saw eight captures, with the carcasses being tagged and sent to Aberdeen University for analysis. More volunteers are needed, however, as the Great Glen provides a thoroughfare from the west coast to the east. The NBFT would like to thank all volunteers for their efforts.

POLMAILY BARRIER ASSESSMENT

On the 4th March 2015 the NBFT worked with the MFTI and Findhorn Nairn and Lossie Fisheries Trust to conduct a barrier assessment of a bridge apron at Polmaily Burn, a tributary of the River Enrick in the Ness system. Results of electro-fishing surveys completed by the NBFT suggested that bridge apron/culvert presents a barrier to the passage of migratory salmonids.

This technical survey technique can be used to determine if a structure is a barrier to fish migration (up or down stream). The resulting reports are the first step in altering or removing these structures to improve access for wild fish. In this instance, the results of the assessment indicate that the box culvert is impassable for all life stages of salmonids in its current form.

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Results of the Polmaily Barrier Assessment

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UPPER GARRY SALMON RESTORATION PROJECT

In 2012 the RLI were commissioned to carry out a scoping study for the development of a salmon stock restoration programme for the Upper Garry. The abundance of Atlantic salmon in this system has declined over the last 50 years and is showing little sign of recovery.

Their recommendations included the implementation of carefully targeted, designed and linked enhancement initiatives, encompassing habitat improvement and stock rehabilitation through supportive breeding and supplementary stocking. Scottish & Southern Energy (SSE), the NBFT, the Ness DSFB, Marine Harvest (MH), the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and RLI have come together to collaborate on the delivery of what is now known as the ‘Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project’.

The supportive breeding and supplementary stocking element of the project entails the capture of a proportion of the wild Garry salmon smolts as they migrate downstream towards the sea between April and May.

Rotary screw trap in position in the River Garry in spring 2015 with smolts in the collection box

Each fish is anesthetised on removal from the trap and a Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag implanted into its abdomen. This allows each individual fish to be identified using a hand held reader. The fork length and weight of each fish is recorded and tissue and scale samples taken. The fish are then transported to a temporary freshwater holding facility at Loch Garry.

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Processing the smolts before transfer to the temporary holding facility on Loch Garry

Once the fish are deemed to be ready for the transition to the marine environment, they are transferred to a salt water holding facility and grown on to maturity in the marine environment. It is intended to stock the eggs produced from these fish to areas accessible to salmon upstream of Garry Dam for a period of four years in an attempt to ‘kick-start’ the population. It is hoped that this will enable a sufficient number of eggs to be produced to have a meaningful impact on the system.

Monitoring the development of the River Garry smolts in saltwater tanks at Ardtoe Marine Research Centre

The first two operational years of the ‘Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project’ have proven that the capture of adequate numbers of wild smolts from the Garry system is achievable. However, issues have been experienced in relation to the successful transition of the smolts from freshwater to salt water. In response, an option appraisal exercise has been completed, problem areas identified and solutions put in place for the 2016 operations.

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HOLM BURN RESTORATION PROJECT (2014 – 2017)

The Holm Burn was an important spawning and nursery area for salmon and sea trout. However, water abstraction, morphological alterations and barriers to fish migration have resulted in the condition of the burn and its fish stocks becoming severely degraded. A compensation flow agreement is believed to be the key to the long-term restoration of the Holm Burn; however, this is unlikely to be reached until at least 2016. A number of short-term actions are therefore being taken.

Restoration Stocking

We are in the process of considering the feasibility of continuing the incubation box project on the Holm Burn. Unfortunately last year, although good numbers of adult fish were present in the river, none were caught close enough to spawning to be stripped on the bank. It is believed that the fish did not spawn until late January/February 2015 during a period of high water which made their capture impossible.

An incubation box in situ on the Holm Burn, with a female salmon being released as not ready to strip

Improving Fish Passage

On the 14th July 2015 we were consulted by the Highland Council (THC) on proposed repairs to their fish pass on the Holm Burn. They planned to replace the degraded stone steps with a reinforced concrete upstands faced in stone to maintain the existing appearance of the fish ladder. It was anticipated that the works would be completed prior to the 31st of October 2015 in line with the restrictions in the Controlled Activities Regulations (CAR) licence for the structure.

In response the Ness DSFB highlighted that fact that the existing structure has a number of fundamental design issues which limit its effectiveness and should be explored in further detail. We provided the results of a fish passage assessment completed in April 2014. This indicated that, despite modification of the structure in 2010 to incorporate fish passage, it is still largely impassable to fish. We also raised concerns that the proposed works may create a further barrier and make future alteration to improve fish passage more difficult.

After further consultation with SEPA, THC decided to postpone the works and give us an opportunity to present an alternative solution. Following initial advice from a specialist company, we envisage the installation of a pre-fabricated Larinier fish pass within the current structure. This would retain much of the existing

34 of 66 2014 Annual Report structure; facilitate fish passage at lower flows, whilst the remainder of the existing structure would continue to function under higher flows.

The existing fish pass on the Holm Burn at which we would like to see fish passage improved

THC has said that it could consider contributing to the modifications, with the Ness Board having to secure funding for the outstanding amount. Unfortunately the works would not be eligible for support from SEPAs Water Environment Fund (WEF) because it is a local authority asset forming part of a Flood Protection Order and it is officially recorded as passable (because of the fact that it presents a partial rather that total barrier to fish passage).

Habitat Enhancement

We are keen to progress a number of small scale habitat enhancements on the Holm Burn in partnership with the Moray Firth Trout Initiative to mitigate the impacts of low flows. Unfortunately the Highland Council (THC) engineers are hesitant to permit the works in case they have an adverse impact on their flood alleviation scheme. During a site meeting on the 22nd April 2015 a council representative agreed to consult with his colleagues. At the time of writing this report we have yet to hear back from them.

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Emergency Works

CALEDONIAN CANAL BREACH

During an extreme high water event in the early hours of Sunday the 8th March 2015, the banks of the Caledonian Canal breached at Cullochy weir. Large amounts of material were deposited in the River Oich downstream of the breach as the force of water eroded the canal banks.

As water escaped through the breach, the level upstream in both the canal and Loch Oich fell rapidly. There was no longer a flow of water over the weir from Loch Oich into the River Oich, with the upper reaches of the river becoming rapidly de-watered. All of this occurred at a time when the salmon smolt run was about to begin and salmon eggs were incubating in the river gravels.

Breach in the Caledonian Canal photographed on the 9th March 2015 (top) with low levels in Loch Oich (bottom left) and exposed weir on the River Oich (bottom right)

The Ness DSFB team liaised closely with Scottish Canals and SEPA to ensure that the potential impacts of the incident on salmon populations (together with those associated with subsequent repair works) were minimised as far as practicably possible. Initial priority works involved the protection of the exposed bank with rock armour to prevent any further erosion. Scottish Canals then used rock armour to dam the mouth of the canal. This significantly reduced the flow of water through the canal and raised the levels in Loch Oich. This in turn meant that water once again spilt over the weir, with a base flow returned to the upper reaches of the River Oich.

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A site visit during repair works, River Oich (left) and creation of the temporary rock dam at the mouth of the canal (right)

Sheet piling was used to close the breach, after which the temporary rock dam at the mouth of the canal was removed. This allowed the canal to re-open to all craft on the 30th of April 2015 whilst repair works continued behind the piling.

A large bank of displaced sand, gravel and cobbles which had formed in the River Oich downstream of the breach was then carefully removed. This provided material for the repair works and acted to reduce the potential long-term impacts of the material on the river system. The fill was completed to formation level with concreted poured soon after.

Sheet piling being installed along the canal bank to close the breach (left) and completed works on the weir in October 2015 (right)

The works on the replacement weir were subsequently completed in October 2015. The Ness DSFB and NBFT will monitor the long-term impacts of the event over the coming years.

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WHIN PARK LADE FISH RESCUE

During a routine visit to the ‘Electric Burn’ on the 1st October 2015, we discovered that it had become dewatered. This was a repeat of a similar incident which occurred at the same time in 2014.

In response a fish rescue was carried out on the morning of the 2nd October 2015. This concentrated on the most effected reach below the boating pond intake weir, extending down to the small ornamental pond below the shop. In total approximately 1000 three spined sticklebacks, 50 European eels, 12 salmon parr, 2 brown trout and a single lamprey ammocete were transferred to the relative safety of the main River Ness. In addition to this we saw large numbers (100s) of juvenile newts in the areas of standing water.

Fish rescue at Whin Park Lade including photographs of a salmon parr and three spined stickleback (top left), lamprey ammocete (top right), silver eel (bottom left) and numerous sticklebacks (bottom right)

The low number of lamprey ammocetes recorded in the main affected reach was concerning, particularly given the high numbers recorded in previous years. In comparison, the lower canoe slalom reach was found to contain extremely high densities of lamprey ammocetes. After a brief ‘look see’ we decided to leave these fish where they were given their sheer numbers, the fact that by this time the flow had been restored and that levels were beginning to rise. The levels in the slalom reach are influenced by the amount of water coming down the lade, together with that ‘backing up’ from the main River Ness. As such, it is unusual for it to completely dry out. The difference in these two reaches suggests that previous years dewatering may have resulted in a negative impact on lamprey populations between the boating pond weir and the ornamental pond.

The fact that we only found one dead stickleback during the operation suggests that large scale fish mortality was averted by the swift response by fisheries board and trust staff, together with those from THC who restored the flows. Discussion with SEPA and the Highland Council aimed at preventing a reoccurrence are ongoing.

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Fisheries Enforcement

Decline in the numbers of salmon returning to our rivers in recent years has resulted in a shift in priorities for many DSFBs. There is now an increasing focus on fisheries science (to identify problems) and management (to address the problems). Water bailiffs, as the primary employees of a DSFB, are expected to have a much wider range of skills and experience than in the past and are spending a larger proportion of their time on ‘non- enforcement’ issues. The proportion of a DSFB’s annual budget available for enforcement has decreased, leading to fewer dedicated water bailiffs. At the same time poaching is still an issue, so there is a need to ‘do more with less’ and to make the best use of available resources.

SCOTTISH WATER BAILIFF SEMINAR

The Ness DSFB had the privilege of hosting this year’s ‘Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM) Water Bailiff Seminar’ at the Waterside Hotel in Inverness on the 4th and 5th of March 2015. This annual event, supported by the Association of Salmon Fishery Boards, is hosted by a different fishery board each year. Approximately 50 water bailiffs from across Scotland were in attendance, including attendees from as far north as the Northern DSFB and as far south as the Tweed Commission.

First day of the 2015 ‘IFM Management Water Bailiff Seminar’ at the Waterside Hotel in Inverness

The seminar consisted of two days of presentations and practical sessions from a range of guest speakers covering fisheries legislation, procedures and policy. This included the annual IFM water bailiff examinations, formal dinner and award of the Roger Barnes Memorial Trophy to Gareth Bourhill from Loch Lomond, the highest scoring delegate from the previous year’s examinations.

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TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

Ness DSFB water bailiffs attended a wildlife crime training course at Balmoral Castle on the 25th June 2015. Over 20 water bailiffs from DSFBs across the north and north-east of Scotland were in attendance. The course included sessions on the law and best practice control of non-native species, river crime security, personal safety and notebook management.

Police Scotland Officer Safety Training Instructor Alison Cowie (left) and PC Mike Whyte (right) presenting to the water bailiffs

Water bailiff training in Scotland is led by the IFM. All water bailiffs must complete and pass an exam covering legislation, practical operations and court procedures before being issued with a Warrant of Appointment by the local DSFB. Regional training days such as this one not only act as refresher courses, but also allow the police officers and water bailiffs from neighbouring areas to share experiences and practise working together as a team.

PARTNERSHIP WORKING

The Ness DSFB has a seat on the Partnership against Wildlife Crime (PAW). PAW Highland is a working group consisting of a wide range of bodies concerned with the prevention of crimes against wildlife. It aims to deliver specific actions related to tackling wildlife crime and reports to the executive of PAW Scotland, chaired by the Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform. As part of this group we have already provided fisheries input to a series of training days for police wildlife and environment crime officers and have produced a contact list with the contact details for all water bailiffs across the police N-Division area.

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Police Scotland wildlife crime officers accompanied NDSFB water bailiffs on a number of patrols across the Ness district throughout the 2015 season. The purpose of these patrols was to engage with members of the angling community and to ensure compliance with the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) Scotland Act 2003. Salmon poaching is one of the six national UK wildlife crime priorities and tackling those involved in it remains a priority for the local partnership between water bailiffs and Police Scotland wildlife crime officers. By enforcing the law and preventing the illegal exploitation of fish, we aim to maximise the numbers going on to successfully spawn.

Police officers and water bailiffs working in partnership across the Ness district

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DEPLOYMENT OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND TECHNIQUES

The Ness DSFB has continued to invest in new technologies and techniques to assist our water bailiffs in the detection and prosecution of illegal fishing.

Trail cameras were deployed to great effect in A Ness DSFB water bailiff body camera 2015. They can be deployed at multiple ‘vulnerable’ locations and provide a cost effective way of extending the overall reach of our team. Triggered by movement, the cameras record any activity in their field of view. An infra- red capability means that they work both day and night and can be left in position for prolonged periods.

We have also procured body worn cameras similar to those used by various police forces across the UK. Body worn video helps to prevent criminal and anti-social behaviour when out on patrol. In addition, the captured footage can provide greater transparency of interactions with the public and significantly increase early guilty pleas when used in a prosecution.

Finally, the Ness DSFB has invested in new thermal imaging equipment. This is not affected by visible light, so can provided a clear picture on the brightest of days or the darkest of nights. Given that they detect heat, camouflage clothing is not effective against it nor is concealment in undergrowth. This offers significant benefits for water bailiffs working in the Ness system where the banks of lochs and rivers are generally heavily vegetated.

A person walking along a river bank in pitch darkness taken through a FLIR thermal imaging camera

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PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS

The primary objective of the Ness DSFB is to prevent illegal fishing rather than having to take enforcement action. This year we launched two key campaigns intended to increase public awareness of the law relating to trout fishing and that relating to the sale and possession of wild salmon and sea trout.

Law Relating to Trout

Many people believe that trout fishing in Scotland is unregulated, but this is not the case. Although in general it is not a criminal offence to fish for or take trout and other freshwater fish in Scotland, this does not mean that there is a free right to fish anywhere.

A typical rod caught Ness district brown trout

The rights of riparian owners, who generally own the fishing rights for trout and other freshwater fish, are protected by principles of civil law. In the case of a loch where the fishing rights are owned by one person, it is a criminal offence to fish for trout without permission.

The Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Act 2007 made various amendments to the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003. A number of these relate to trout and are enforced by district salmon fishery board water bailiffs who have various powers of entry, search, seizure and arrest:

 When fishing for trout or any other salmonid fish including salmon, char and grayling, and not doing so from a boat, you must use a single rod and line and the rod must be held by hand;

 If fishing for any fish from a boat, no more than four rods can be used at any one time. This means that even if two or more people are fishing on the boat, a maximum of four rods may be used; and

 The use of live vertebrates, including minnows, as bait or lure for trout or any other fish is prohibited, as is the use of fish roe, fire or light.

Anyone fishing in breach of these provisions risks being reported to the procurator fiscal and receiving a large fine and/or a criminal record.

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Sale and Possession of Wild Salmon and Sea Trout

A campaign against dodgy deals involving illegally-caught or sold salmon was launched on the 24th June 2015. This included the distribution of a new advisory leaflet raising awareness of the law relating to the sale and possession of wild salmon and sea trout to anglers, food outlets, hotels, restaurants and fish sellers in Inverness and throughout the Ness district catchment area.

Only farmed salmon or those caught in legal net fisheries can be sold in Scotland. It is completely illegal to sell any rod caught salmon, whether by the angler themselves or third parties such as restaurants or fishmongers. The law applies to portions as well as entire fish. Furthermore it is an offence for a person to be in possession of any salmon believing that, or in circumstances in which it would have been reasonable for them to suspect that, the fish had been illegally taken, killed or landed.

The campaign asked people to consider the circumstances under which the fish is being offered to them and whether it seems suspicious, before people find themselves in court after thinking they’ve got a bargain.

Advisory leaflet raising awareness of the law relating to the sale and possession of wild salmon and sea trout to anglers

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Fisheries Development

SCOTLAND’S SALMON FESTIVAL, INVERNESS

Scotland’s Salmon Festival was a unique event held in Inverness between the 31st August and 5th September 2015. Its primary aim was to raise awareness of the Atlantic salmon, its lifecycle, cultural and economic importance in Scotland and the pressures that it currently faces. Looking back it is clear that the event achieved all of these things and much, much more.

For the first time the festival brought together a range of interests from across the wild fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The Ness DSFB, in common with others, has concerns about the potential impact that poor fish farm management practices can have on salmon populations. That said, we also have an appreciation of the benefits an environmentally sustainable and competitive salmon farming industry can bring to Scotland.

All kinds of food production, including aquaculture, impact on the environment and the challenge is to minimise this impact in a way that ensures that wild and farmed salmon can co-exist. In recent years our understanding of the interactions between wild and farmed salmon has improved greatly. In response, the aquaculture industry has significantly increased its efforts in relation to the prevention of escapes and the control of sea lice. There is still much more to be done, but we believe that it is best achieved by working together in the spirit of partnership and trust.

International Science Symposium

One of the key events of the festival was an international science symposium hosted by the UHI Rivers and Lochs Institute (RLI) at their new campus in Inverness. The event entitled ‘Salmon, Science and Society’ was targeted at industry professionals. It explored the role that science plays in the management of Scotland’s wild salmon and how it can be better applied in practice. Local businessman and Ness fishery proprietor David Sutherland introduced the event and welcomed delegates to Inverness.

The national and international speakers presented a provocative series of talks on the issues surrounding salmon science and management. The first part of the symposium concentrated on ‘setting the scene’ and included an introduction to evidence based management by Professor Eric Verspoor, director of the new RLI at Inverness College. This was followed by a particularly interesting presentation on integrating knowledge into salmon management by Dr Alex Bielak, an internationally recognised knowledge translation and brokering authority based in Canada. He drew attention to the lack of any consistent, coherent or positive messages coming from the fisheries sector in Scotland.

Dr Ronald Campbell from the Tweed Foundation gave a historical retrospective and Patrick Martin, president and director of the Conservatoire National Du Saumon in the Loire River in central France, spoke on the topic of hatcheries, stocking and science using the Allier River as a case study.

The second part of the symposium concentrated on the ‘knowns and unknowns’ in salmon science. This started with a very informative presentation on genes, populations and clans by Dr Mark Coulson, research fellow in population genetics at the Rivers and Lochs Institute. Dr Rasmus Lauridsen from the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust gave a fascinating presentation on freshwater element of the salmon’s lifecycle. This was followed by Dr Iain Malcolm, freshwater environment group leader at Marine Scotland’s Freshwater Fisheries Laboratory at Pitlochry, and his presentation on freshwater salmon habitat.

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Dr Phil McGinnity from University College Cork in Ireland then moved on to the topic of marine salmon ecology, ‘the elephant in the room'. He explored the likely impacts of global warming on the survival of salmon at sea. This was followed by Professor Carlos Garcia de Leaniz, director of fish and fisheries research at the Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Research at Swansea University, who gave a presentation on diversity and productivity. Finally, Professor Ian Flemming from the Department of Ocean Sciences at Memorial University of Newfoundland gave a thought provoking presentation on the differences between cultured and wild salmon and whether it matters.

A selection of photographs taken at the International Science Symposium at UHI Inverness College

The third part of the symposium concentrated on the implementation and importance of science from a management perspective and how it is applied in various sectors. Dr David Summers from the Tay DSFB presented a wild fish management perspective; Dr Petter Arnesen, breeding director of Marine Harvest presented 'a salmon farming perspective'; and Jeff Gibbons from the Marine Scotland Salmon and Recreational Fisheries team gave a legislative and regulatory perspective.

The final part of the symposium consisted of an entertaining ‘reflection’ on the day’s presentations by Dr Malcolm Newson from the Tyne Rivers Trust in England. The key ‘take home message’ from the day was that fishery managers and policy makers should base their activities and decision making on sound science and at the same time science and research should be driven by a practical need.

The science symposium was followed by a one-day career exploration conference which saw fifth and sixth year pupils from across Scotland, together with a visiting party from the USA, learn about job opportunities across the wild and farmed salmon sectors. It provided an opportunity for students to learn more about career possibilities from those who work within the industry.

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Public Orientated Evening Events

Continuing the theme of raising awareness of the Atlantic salmon, Scotland’s Salmon Festival included a number of public orientated evening events. A ‘Salmon Film Festival’ at Eden Court Theatre included short salmon-related films and public lectures on salmon issues. This was followed by an evening of public lectures on the theme of ‘Salmon, Science and Society’ delivered by leading industry experts. Public engagement even extended into Inverness’s night life. The band ‘Shakalovesyou’, in association with Scotland's Salmon Festival, played a Friday night in the cities multi-award winning pub and live-music venue Hootananny.

Alexander Grant Memorial Speycasting Competition

Perhaps the highlight of the festival was the two day ‘Alexander Grant Memorial Speycasting Competition’. Alexander Grant cast his personally-designed rod in to the General’s Well pool of the River Ness 120 years ago and reached a record 65 yards, earning him the title ‘Godfather of Speycasting’. Since then, salmon fishing has become an ever-increasing asset to this country.

A selection of photographs taken at the Alexander Grant Memorial Speycasting Competition

Staged 120 years after Grant set his original record; the event was led by Inverness Angling Club in association with three times world Speycasting champion Scott Mackenzie of Mackenzie Flyfishing. A total of 20 competitors from the USA, Ireland, Norway, England and Scotland came to pay their own tributes to Grant. The ladies event was won by Donna O’Sullivan of San Francisco who cast a distance of 34 metres. The overall winner was Geir Hanson from Bergen with a 52 metre cast. Both were presented with an engraved Quaich in recognition of their achievements by Alexander Grant’s great grandson, Michael Kerr.

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Salmon Festival Fair

The salmon festival fair has held on the adjacent Bught Park, with the first of the two days dedicated to local primary schools. Over 100 children engaged in a range of activities including fly casting lessons, fly tying, mini beast hunts, electro-fishing demonstrations, arts and crafts, and traditional music.

The festival concluded with a civic reception in Inverness Town House when Michael Kerr spoke. Grant set up a fishing tackle manufacturing business in Inverness in 1887 and his cast eight years later was a giant step for fly fishing. His record was one of the longest lasting in sports history, 110 years, until Scott Mackenzie of Inverness cast 68 yards in 2005.

A selection of photographs taken at the Bught Park Fair

Scotland’s first salmon festival went so much better than any of us on the steering group could have hoped. The breadth of engagement was outstanding as was the co-operation between academics, the aquaculture industry, government advisers, the local authority, the wild fisheries sector and the general public.

We had a range of superb sponsors and now we all need to work hard to build on the achievements of the week and ensure that it has a lasting legacy. The steering group plan to host the next Scotland’s Salmon Festival here in Inverness in 2017.

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Wild Fisheries Review

In January 2014, the Scottish Government announced that an independent ‘Wild Fisheries Review’ would be undertaken. The aims of the review were to:

 Develop and promote a modern, evidence-based management system for wild fisheries fit for purpose in the 21st century, and capable of responding to the changing environment; and

 Manage, conserve and develop our wild fisheries to maximise the sustainable benefit of Scotland’s wild fish resources to the country as a whole and particularly to rural areas

On 8th October 2014, the review group submitted its final report and recommendations to the Minister for Environment and Climate Change. The following sections describe the subsequent developments over the past year.

SPRING CONSERVATION MEASURES

In line with recommendations contained in the review group’s report regarding declining spring salmon catches and following a consultation period, the Scottish Government introduced statutory conservation measures to ensure that no salmon are taken in Scotland before 1st April each year. The national measure came into force on Friday 9 January 2015, the key elements of which are detailed below:

 The annual close time has been extended until 31st March;

 The start of the net fishing season is delayed until 1st April;

 Fishing by rod and line can take place from the season start date within the district until 31st March on a catch and release basis (any salmon caught must be returned to the water with the least possible harm);

 The measures seek to underpin any existing voluntary/statutory measures; and

 The measures will be reviewed annually.

WILD FISHERIES REFORM

The Scottish Government published its Wild Fisheries Reform (WFR) consultation document on Friday 15th May 2015. This confirmed their commitment to the reform of wild fisheries, which will result in a new management system designed to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

The paper also set out the government’s response to the independent Wild Fisheries Review. It outlined the fundamental principles on which the new system will be built, and committed to developing a national wild fisheries strategy for the management of all freshwater and migratory fish species.

The wild fisheries paper included a consultation which sought views on a number of broad policy options including the balance of functions between local and national levels, funding, science and skills, regulation and compliance, and promoting access and opportunity and careers in fishing. The deadline for responses to the consultation was the 7th August 2015. The Ness DSFB took consideration of information gained from attendance at various meetings and available legal advice. Our final response was subsequently submitted to the Scottish Government on the 31st July 2015.

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KILL LICENCE CONSULTATION

On the 6th February 2015, Scottish ministers announced that they would be inviting views on proposed conservation measures which would seek to ban the killing of wild salmon in Scotland, except under licence, along with an accompanying carcass tagging scheme to ensure compliance. The measures would be in place for the start of the 2016 season.

A public consultation ran from 6th February 2015 to 30th April 2015. Stakeholders were invited to use the consultation period to offer their views on both the principle of the proposals and how they might operate in practice. The Ness DSFB provided written representation to the consultation on the 10th April 2015.

As required under paragraph 11 of Schedule 1 to the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003, Scottish ministers advertised the general effect of the kill licence proposal and the prohibition on killing salmon outside estuary limits on 23rd July 2015. In parallel they ran a week-long online forum where they talked through and encouraged discussion on much of the detail. This concluded on 29th July 2015 and they subsequently published an analysis of the dialogue. The main focus of concerns was around:

 The perceived pace at which the development of the kill licence and the regulations is being progressed;

 The consultation process, including the adequacy of the consultation on the Wild Fisheries Review and on the kill licence proposals;

 The length of the online consultation, the belief that expressed views will be ignored and inappropriate representation. One participant welcomed the online discussion, but felt that it was too short to be effective; this was echoed by others.

 Governance, both generally and in relation to the kill licence, with the general comments focused on the way that the current administration works. The detailed comments covered: the perceived lack of evidence to support the kill licence (which is not in line with Scottish Government policy); the need for good working relationships; the scope of the Wild Fisheries Review; the need to consider inclusion issues; and general handling.

Several participants felt that the decision had already been made. Others wondered if there was a hidden agenda and suggested, for example, that the kill licence is being driven by political agendas or that it is a means of implementing 100 per cent catch and release.

The remainder of the comments covered three main areas. Some set out participants’ views that the conservation measures amount to unnecessary bureaucracy. The need to comply with international obligations was also noted, but one participant queried the Scottish Government’s approach, given that similar proposals do not appear to be proposed by administrations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Finally, several maintained that the ‘real’ purpose of the kill licence is to generate revenue for government.

The Scottish Government asked that representations or objections in respect of the proposed conservation regulations be submitted by 19th August 2015. Following our initial response to the consultation in April, the decision was made not to formulate any further representation on behalf of the Ness board.

In an unexpected turn of events, the Scottish Government has now moved away from the idea of an individual licensing system and will not be pursuing the introduction of any charging regime. They have instead proposed the introduction of the concept of a conservation plan in areas where salmon fails to achieve good conservation status, i.e. conservation limits (CLs). The deadline for responses to the proposal was the 29th October 2015.

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Scottish ministers propose the following package of measures to conserve wild salmon: a) The existing spring conservation order, restricting fish to a catch and release basis until 1 April across Scotland, with the exception of the River South Esk in the Esk Salmon District which is 1 May, will remain in place. b) Fishing outwith estuary limits will be prohibited for a period of three years due to the mixed stock nature of the fishery and the limited data on the stock composition of the catch. This will be reviewed after three years. c) The killing of Atlantic salmon will be managed on an annual basis by categorising fishery districts (using the 109 fishery districts used for the catch statistics/Special Areas of Conservation) in relation to their conservation status using the following criteria and with accompanying guidance and/or regulation as laid out below:

Category Probability Effectively Advice of meeting CL met in: CL

1 At least 80% 4 out of 5 Advice provided (either to DSFB or proprietors/fisheries in areas years without a DSFB) indicating that exploitation is sustainable therefore no additional management action is currently required. This recognises the effectiveness of existing non-statutory local management interventions.

2 60-80% 3 out of 5 Management action is necessary to reduce exploitation; mandatory years catch and release will not be required in the first instance, but this will be reviewed annually. Production of a conservation plan is required in consultation with Marine Scotland. Where a DSFB does not exist, assistance in plan formulation will be offered to those concerned.

3 Less than ≤ 2 out of 5 Exploitation is unsustainable therefore management actions required 60% years to reduce exploitation for one year i.e. mandatory catch and release (all methods). Production of a conservation plan is required in consultation with Marine Scotland.

d) Carcass tagging for net caught fish for areas in Category 1 and 2, which are to be sold commercially, will be introduced. The costs for producing the tags will in the first instance be subsumed by Marine Scotland. e) It is recognised that fisheries may not be the only driver of change in salmon stocks, nor will a reduction in exploitation on its own necessarily lead to Conservation Limit (CLs) being attained quickly. However, it is clear that when stocks are below their conservation limit, reducing exploitation by fisheries will help towards CLs being met in the future.

The probability of a district or SAC meeting its CL has been determined using the best available information on salmon stocks, with full details on the methods used provided in a technical summary. CL compliance is generally assessed by fishery district, with the exception of SACs. For the 2016 season a total of 19 district/SACs will fall into Grade 1; 18 into Grade 2; and 89 into Grade 3.

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A full list of the areas and their associated grades has been published, with the Ness district falling into ‘Category 3’. This means that it would be subject to mandatory catch and release during the 2016 season.

Our analysis of the proposals suggested that the approach to developing and applying conservation limits is broadly sound. However, it is clear that there are areas where more detailed information could improve the models and associated outputs used. This specifically relates to the contribution that the lochs in the Ness district make to the total wetted area. An over estimation of the wetted area utilised by salmon as spawning and juvenile habitat could lead to an over estimation of conservation limits.

Given the achievements made in relation to catch and release and netting buyouts in recent years, it is difficult to see that any major change will be achieved through the introduction of mandatory catch and release on its own. We recommended that the Scottish Government should therefore give serious consideration to other key factors which may be having a significant impact on salmon stocks.

The Ness DSFB representation was submitted on the 20th October 2015 to this effect. As of the 29th October 2015 we understand that the Scottish Government were in the process of reassessing the conservation limit on the Ness system.

FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION – CRITICAL ANALYSIS

In its Wild Fisheries Reform consultation document, the Scottish Government recommended the creation of a network of fisheries management organisations (FMOs). They have not made recommendations as to the number of FMOs in any new structure, but it is clear that FMOs will need to be of sufficient size and capacity to deliver the functions expected of them and achieve economies of scale.

Fishery boards and trusts across Scotland have begun discussions with their neighbours regarding the potential for ‘mergers’ to form larger FMOs. Locally, the Ness DSFB has been working with representatives from the NBFT, Lochaber Trust and Lochaber and Beauly Fishery Boards to consider the detail of a Lochaber, Ness and Beauly FMO. This grouping is one of a number of potential options for a local FMO in the Great Glen area.

Geographical range of the combined Lochaber, Ness and Beauly Districts

During a series of meeting we have developed a ‘critical analysis’ document which makes an objective analysis of the potential FMO in terms of:

 The appropriateness of the delivery area in terms of physical geography, together with the ability to retain local knowledge and buy in from membership;

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 Whether the FMO will be of a sufficient size and capacity to deliver the functions expected of it, including critical mass in terms of staffing required to deliver fishery management plans and operate the organisation; and

 Whether the potential Lochaber, Ness and Beauly FMO is logical, evidence based, defendable and fundable.

The critical analysis of the Lochaber, Ness and Beauly FMO suggests that the delivery area is appropriate in terms of physical geography. It also suggests that the creation of two sub units and teams within the FMO is likely to increase its ability to retain local knowledge and buy in from membership.

An organisational structure has been proposed which will be of a sufficient size and capacity to deliver all the functions expected of an FMO. This includes a critical mass in terms of staffing, which in real terms will see a larger team with more capabilities. This model is logical, evidence based and defendable.

Unfortunately, the financial structure suggests that a Lochaber, Ness and Beauly FMO of a sufficient size and capacity to deliver all the functions expected of it will not be fundable unless alternative sources of funding are made available. It is clear that the Scottish Government need to decide whether it wants to progress a model that is ‘fit for purpose’ or one that ‘fits the funding’. The two would be very different entities.

NEXT STEPS

The following provides a summary of our current understanding of the Scottish Government’s Wild Fisheries Reform timetable for the next year:

 Publish analysis of the WFR consultation in the near future;

 Present to December 2015 – development of draft national fisheries strategy and bill;

 February 2016 – Public consultation on draft clauses, outline national strategy, discussion document and questions;

 June to August 2016 – Government consideration;

 Autumn 2016 (at the earliest) – Potential for bill to be tabled in parliament;

 Summer 2017 – Possible enactment of legislation ; and

 2017 – Potential phased implementation.

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Compliance with Good Governance Obligations

Statutory ‘good governance’ obligations are placed on district salmon fishery boards as defined in law by section 46 of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003. They comprise the original obligations placed on boards by the 2003 Act together with those introduced through amendments of the 2003 Act by the Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Act 2013 which came into force on the 16th September 2013.

The purpose of the obligations is to enhance openness, transparency and accountability of the management of salmon fisheries by district salmon fishery boards. They bring together existing best practice to ensure that all boards act in a manner consistent with bodies operating in the public sphere.

Key activities covered by these obligations include:

 Annual reports and accounts

 Meetings of the board

 Complaints procedures; and

 Register of member’s interests

This section of the report demonstrates how we have complied with each of the key obligations since the coming into force of the Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Act 2013 on the 16th September 2013. We will continue to follow the advice and guidance produced by both Marine Scotland and the Association of Salmon Fishery Boards over the coming year to ensure continued compliance with our good governance obligations.

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

This annual report including accounts to the year ending 15th May 2015 will be published on the ‘Publications’ page of our website (http://ness.dsfb.org.uk/good-governance/publications/) together with those for previous years. Hard copies will also be available from the clerk of the board on request.

MEETINGS

2014 Annual Meeting of Qualified Proprietors

The 2014 annual meeting of qualified proprietors took place on the 18th December 2014. This was publicised on the 10th November 2014 via our website, Facebook page, Twitter feed, written notice to qualified proprietors and by advertisement in Graham’s Tackle Shop in Inverness. Notification of the meeting was also emailed to the Scottish Ministers on the same date.

Seven board members (from a total of twelve), five non-voting attendees and one public observer were present. The minutes of the meeting can be viewed on the ‘Publications’ page of our website and were sent to Scottish ministers on the 20th March 2015 (following approval at our March 2015 board meeting). The 2014 annual report and accounts to year ending 15th May 2013 were approved and subsequently published on our website and submitted to Scottish ministers on the 17th January 2015.

2014 Annual Public Meeting

An annual public meeting was held on the 22nd January 2015, with the primary purpose of presenting the agreed and finalised annual report and accounts to the wider public. This was publicised on the 19th December 2014 via our website, Facebook page, Twitter feed, written notice to qualified proprietors and by

54 of 66 2015 Annual Report advertisement in Graham’s Tackle Shop in Inverness. Notification of the meeting was also emailed to Scottish ministers on the same date. The notice publicising the meeting invited interested parties to suggest items for discussion. In response a member of the public expressed concern about the potential impact of the sewage outfall at Alturlie. This related to the impact of water quality on salmon migrations in the area.

The public meeting was attended by 29 individuals including local anglers, representatives from Inverness Angling Club, Loch Ness anglers, Scottish National Heritage, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Moray Firth Trout Initiative, Beauly District DSFB, Spey DSFB, Spey Foundation, Burton Property Trust, the University of the Highlands and Islands (Rivers and Lochs Institute), Drynie Estate and Ness Castle Estate in addition to the Ness DSFB and Ness and Beauly Fishery Trust.

There were three presentations given as follows:

1. Introduction Andrew Duncan – vice chairman, Ness DSFB

In the absence of Michael Martin, chairman of the NDSFB, Andrew Duncan gave a brief welcome and introduction to the 2014 annual report and accounts for the year ended 15th May 2014.

2. “2014 – A Year in Review” Chris Conroy – director, Ness DSFB

Chris provided an overview of the activities of the board over the previous year, including the latest provisional rod catches for 2014, together with those planned for the forthcoming year.

3. “Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust: Report on 2014 Activities” Nick Barker – senior biologist, Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust

Nick provided an overview of the activities of the trust over the last year, in particular the results of their fish monitoring programmes.

4. “The River Carron Research Project: Supporting Management with Leading Edge Science” Professor Eric Verspoor - director of the Rivers and Lochs Institute, Inverness

Our guest speaker, Eric Verspoor, focused on the use of science to investigate the merits of different types of stock intervention and the problems of using catch statistics alone to establish the status of a river stock.

A question and answer session followed the presentations. The suggested item for discussion relating to the sewage outfall at Alturlie was then discussed. Chris Conroy reported that he had raised the issue with SEPA, the regulatory body responsible for monitoring water quality. They had acknowledged the question and would be responding in due course.

The minutes of the meeting can be viewed on the ‘Publications’ page of our website and were sent to Scottish ministers on the 20th March 2015 (following approval at our March 2015 board meeting).

Ordinary Board Meetings

Ordinary board meetings were advertised on the ‘News’ page of our website (http://ness.dsfb.org.uk/news/) with the public being invited to observe. These were held on the 19th March, 18th June and 24th September 2015. The minutes of each of these meetings can be viewed on the ‘Publications’ page of our website.

2015 Annual Meeting of Qualified Proprietors

A further ordinary board meeting will follow the 2015 annual meeting of qualified proprietors, which will take place on the 17th December 2015. This will be publicised on the 17th November 2015 via our website, Facebook

55 of 66 2015 Annual Report page, Twitter feed, written notice to qualified proprietors and by advertisement in Graham’s Tackle Shop in Inverness.

COMPLAINTS

The board has set up and maintains a complaints procedure which can be viewed on the ‘Good Governance’ page of our website (http://ness.dsfb.org.uk/good-governance/). This procedure was first produced on the 28th August 2013 and approved at the board meeting on the 19th September 2013. It has since undergone three iterations, with the latest version 1.3 published on the 5th December 2014.

During the last 12 months the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board received no complaints.

MEMBERS’ INTERESTS

The register of members’ interests can be viewed on the ‘Good Governance’ page of our website (http://ness.dsfb.org.uk/good-governance/). We have included a standing item at each board meeting inviting board members to declare new or amend existing interests. All such instances are recorded in the minutes of these meetings, with the latest version 4.4 of the register produced on the 14th September 2015.

FORTHCOMING MEETINGS

The provisional dates of forthcoming board meeting are as follows. Please note that these may be subject to change, with notification of the final dates being posted on our website and circulated to proprietors at least 21 days prior to the meeting.

 28th January 2016 – 2016 annual public meeting

 24th March 2016 – board meeting

 16th June 2016 – board meeting

 15th September 2016 – board meeting

 22nd December 2016 – 2016 annual meeting of qualified proprietors and board meeting

The NDSFB invites the public to attend all of our meetings. However, certain items of business may be held in private. Please note that the legislation only makes provisions for members of the public to propose matters for consideration and speak at the annual public meeting. However, the NDSFB may at its own discretion wish to give interested parties the right to do so at other meetings.

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Key Priorities for the Forthcoming Year

In addition to the delivery of its core objectives in relation to fisheries science, management and enforcement, the board proposes to progress the following key objectives over the coming year:

 Efficiently and effectively manage the board, through:

o Full compliance with all statutes including the new good governance requirements; o Compliance with the ASFB/RAFTS Code of Governance for DSFBs; o Provision of efficient administration; o Ensuring sound financial control; and o Being a good employer.

 Work in close partnership with and financially support the NBFT to help ensure:

o The conservation and maintenance of the diversity of salmon and sea trout populations in the Ness system and to conserve their aquatic environment; o The collection of accurate, adequate and up-to-date information on the status of fish stocks, their habitats and exploitation to facilitate an evidence based approach to fisheries management; o Education of the public and any association, company, local authority, administrative, or governmental agency or public body or representative body; and o The raising of funds from charitable and commercial sponsorship sources to help facilitate the delivery of key management actions.

 Work with partners to delivery key management actions identified in the ‘Ness District Fisheries Management Plan (2014 – 2019)’, to facilitate the:

o Maintenance of or improvement in the density and distribution of juvenile salmon; o Stabilisation or enhancement of the number of returning adult salmon and sea trout; and o An increase in the socio-economic value of fisheries within the Ness district.

 Support the promotion and development of salmon fisheries in the Ness district, by:

o Encouraging the development of measures to generate more rods on the river, both in the short and longer term; o Continue to promote the Ness district via the NDSFB website and social media; o Commissioning an economic evaluation of fisheries in the Ness district; and o Work with partners to deliver a ‘Scotland’s Salmon Festival’ in September 2017;

 Ensure the delivery of on-going projects, including:

o The Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project; o The Holm Burn Restoration Project; o The Ness District Scale Sampling Programme; and o The Ness District Salmon Tagging Programme.

 Positively engage with the Scottish Government’s Wild Fisheries Reform Process:

o Make representation on behalf of salmon and sea trout fisheries across the Ness district; o Ensure that any new systems or regulations are fit for purpose; and o Engage with neighbouring DSFBs and trusts as appropriate regarding the formation of a larger fisheries management organisation.

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Financial Summary

CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD

The accounts for the year ended 15 May 2015 are included in this section of the report and show a net loss of £4,071. The Ness DSFB had actually budgeted for a loss of £27,650, but not achieved this due to an under spend on the Upper Garry Salmon Restoration Project. This will be carried over to the next financial year. The board’s reserve position remains satisfactory and is forecast to fall in the future as planned work is implemented.