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Scotland's Salmon Plunge to Record Low
22 Mar
Summary
- Wild salmon catch in Scotland hit an all-time low in 2025.
- The decline threatens Scotland's sport angling sector worth over £100 million.
- Fish farming is cited as a major threat by conservationists.
Scotland's reputation as a premier salmon fishing destination is in jeopardy as wild salmon catches have plummeted to an all-time low. In 2025, the number of wild salmon landed fell below 30,000 for the first time since records commenced in 1952. Experts warn of a "catastrophic decline" for Scotland's "king of fish," with fears of imminent extinction.
The record low catch, with 28,933 wild salmon landed in 2025 compared to the previous low of 35,693 in 2021, has intensified debate over the causes. Factors cited include climate change, overfishing, poor river conditions, and the expansion of fish farming.
The downturn, which has occurred rapidly over the last decade and a half from a high of 111,405 in 2010, also presents an economic threat. The sport angling sector, estimated to be worth over £100 million annually, faces significant impact, as anglers may cease visiting if salmon disappear.
Conservation charities highlight fish farms as a primary threat, citing them as reservoirs for diseases and sea lice that harm migrating salmon. While the Scottish Government states it is working with partners on protection measures, including mandatory catch-and-release policies for unsustainable stocks, the future of wild salmon remains uncertain.
