A SERIES of steps are to be implemented in an attempt to halt the decline of fishing activity on the River Nith.
A freeze has been put on fishing permit prices ahead of the new angling season opening on Tuesday.
And the discounted fees for Nithsdale residents only will now be extended to all people who live in Dumfries and Galloway.
In another move to increase angling activity, councillors agreed to continue Sunday-only fishing tickets, and grayling-only tickets, to extend the fishing season.
These measures were rubber stamped at Dumfries Common Good Fund Sub Committee last week after it was revealed that angling on the River Nith has hit an all-time low.
Just 93 fishing tickets were sold last year, generating a meagre income of £7063 for Dumfries and Galloway Council.
This is down nearly 25 percent on 121 permits being sold the previous year.
Ten years earlier, the income to the council was more than double at £16,432.
Councillors had the option to increase fishing permit prices in line with inflation at last week’s committee, and a price increase for a visitor’s (non-resident) day ticket from £45.50 to £48 was suggested in the council report.
However several elected members argued that this would be a bad move considering the downward trajectory of sales in recent years.
North West Dumfries Councillor Andy Ferguson said: “I’m not surprised we’re not getting anybody buying them.
“The problem here is that, if you’re just £1 above the level to get Universal Credit, you’re almost certainly not going to get a reduced price ticket.
“And £48 to go for a day’s fishing is a lot of cash.”
Lochar Councillor Ivor Hyslop said: “Is there evidence that there are more fish in the river now that we’re catching and releasing?
“If there isn’t, is that the main reason why our ticket numbers are going down?”
Abbey Councillor Davie Stitt said: “Catch and release? I’m not a fisherman, but if I was paying £48 and caught four fish, I wouldn’t be releasing them. I’d put them in my bag and I’d be out the water.
“I think £48 for a day ticket is extortionate.
“I think we might have to re-look at our pricing if we want to attract more income because there’s been a steady decline since covid.”
Councillors agreed the following season ticket fishing prices for all Dumfries and Galloway residents: £166.50 for adults; £8 for juniors; and £83 for easy access (those aged over 65/students/disabled people/armed forces personnel). Daily tickets were £37.50 for adults, free for juniors, and free for easy access (maximum one per week).
However, season visitor ticket fees are £267 per adult and £8.50 for juniors. Day tickets remain at £45.50 until August 31 (£54.50 from September 1).
The fishing season opens on February 25. The salmon season ends on November 30, 2025.
