What is the status of wild Atlantic salmon in the Isle of Man?

The wild Atlantic salmon population in the Isle of Man's rivers is thriving, thanks to the government's conservation efforts, including a breeding program and flood prevention measures.

What economic impact do salmon have on the Isle of Man?

The annual salmon run in Manx rivers is an important part of the island's unseen economy, as locals eagerly await the fish to go angling for salmon and sea trout.

Home / Environment / Manx Salmon Thrive Despite Challenges: A Heartening Conservation Story

Manx Salmon Thrive Despite Challenges: A Heartening Conservation Story

Q: How has the Isle of Man's River Laxey helped protect salmon?

The River Laxey, whose name means "salmon river" in old Norse, has benefited from the island's management. Pollution from a nearby mine and obstructive river structures previously threatened the salmon, but have now been addressed, allowing the fish to navigate upstream with ease.

1 Nov

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Summary

First wild Atlantic salmon spotted in River Laxey on Isle of Man
Careful river management and breeding program aid salmon's recovery
Pollution and obstacles in river previously threatened salmon population

Manx Salmon Thrive Despite Challenges: A Heartening Conservation Story

As of November 1st, 2025, the Isle of Man is celebrating a conservation success story. In the River Laxey, a local resident recently spotted the first wild Atlantic salmon seen in the river in years. This sighting is a testament to the island's careful management of its waterways and commitment to protecting endangered species.

The salmon's presence in the Laxey is no accident. The river, whose name derives from the old Norse word for "salmon river," has long been home to these majestic fish. However, past threats such as pollution from a nearby mine and obstructive river structures had previously endangered the salmon population.

To combat these challenges, the Manx government has implemented a multi-pronged approach. A breeding program now gathers wild salmon, strips them of eggs and sperm to produce fertile offspring, and releases the fry back into the rivers they came from. Additionally, a flood prevention scheme has replaced problematic river structures with boulder weirs, creating "salmon slaloms" that allow the fish to navigate upstream with ease.