The Spey Fishery Board is pleased to report the River Spey’s annual catch figures for 2024. This season saw a total catch of 5,341 Atlantic salmon and grilse, a number that is slightly higher than our five-year average of 5009 and the ten-year average of 5333.
The 2024 season began on a positive note, with anglers reporting some large fish early in the year. Good summer salmon numbers were followed by the best grilse run for perhaps 15 years, a particularly encouraging sign for the Spey. While certain beats performed well throughout the season, the distribution of catches was uneven above Craigellachie, with some areas facing challenges.
The sea trout catch continues to be a source of concern. With only 560 sea trout caught this year, compared with the five-year average of 1171 and ten-year average of 1598, the numbers reflect a sustained and troubling decline. The ongoing drop in sea trout is a priority for the Board, and we remain committed to exploring measures to support its recovery.
Although the winter was unusually wet and warm—leading to a record seven floods of over seven feet—summer conditions on the Spey were relatively mild, with no drought warnings and few extended periods of warmth and dryness. While these conditions were favourable for fishing, we remain vigilant about the broader trend of increasingly warm, dry summers associated with climate change. This trend reinforces the critical importance of protecting the river’s water resources, especially during the vulnerable summer period.
We extend our deepest thanks to all proprietors, ghillies, and both resident and visiting anglers for their continued support of our voluntary Conservation Policies. With 98% of salmon and grilse and 94% of sea trout released this season, the commitment shown by everyone involved has been instrumental in preserving the river’s populations. The collective efforts of the Spey community underline their dedication to the long-term health and sustainability of the river.
