Do they practice catch and release in the Hebrides?
Catch and release is practiced voluntarily in the Hebrides and the trend is generally becoming more popular in the Hebrides every year. Most anglers understand the importance of preserving natural wild fishing stocks for conservation and future enjoyment for all and are happy to return their catch. The fisheries of the Hebrides are managed by the estates and monitored by the Western Isles Fisheries Trust, a body that seeks to promote sustainable development. Their mission statement is: “To maximise the benefits of the Western Isles Fishery by developing and promoting this naturally wild resource to the angling community, visiting tourists and residents of the islands in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable manner” Western Isles Fisheries Trust 2001. The Western Isles Fisheries trust offer advice and guidelines on using barbless hooks, disinfecting fishing gear and much more. Contact them at:The Sawmill, Marybank, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, HS2 ODD, Tel +44 (0) 1851
