The Dee Conservation Code 2023

The Dee Conservation Code sets out the regulations for fishing the Dee.

A. The season will run from 1st February to 15th October up to Aboyne Bridge. Above Aboyne Bridge the season will close on 30th September.

B. Salmon and Grilse: 100% catch and release for the entire season. Sea Trout (including Finnock): 100% catch and release for the entire season.

C. Prior to 1st April it is a criminal offence to retain a salmon or grilse. By law any salmon or grilse that is severely injured or damaged, dies or is killed before this date, must be returned to the river.

D. On the Dee after 1st April all severely injured or damaged fish should be handed to the proprietor. This applies to all beats.

E. On the Cowie and Carron it is illegal to kill a salmon or grilse throughout the entire season.

F. It is illegal to sell rod caught wild salmon or sea trout.

G. All pink salmon must be killed, retained and reported to the River Office on the 24-hr number 013398 80411.

H. At the beats discretion, spinning is a permitted option for the whole river between 1st February and 15th April. In addition, spinning is permitted in August and September from the top of Maryculter Beat downstream. It is recommended that fly fishing should always be given a fair try in preference to spinning. Note spinning is not permitted anywhere in October. No more than 1 hook per lure to be used.

I. It is recommended that all hooks should be barbless or crimped. No treble hooks should be used.

J. Irrespective of the date of capture, all fish handling should be kept to a minimum to avoid damage and stress.

K. All anglers are required to disinfect waders and landing nets prior to fishing to prevent the introduction of Gyrodactylus salaris and other diseases to the Dee. Further information is available at www.fishdee.co.uk

Remember, the Dee District Salmon Fishery Board needs the vital help of all Proprietors, Ghillies and Anglers to realise the twin objectives of sustaining and enhancing the river’s fish stocks and maintaining a viable thriving fishery.

River Dee