Catch Returns FAQs
Below is an explanation of some of the issues identified:
Q Why do we need to produce these returns in this detail?
A Earlier this year the legislation came into force that makes it compulsory for all fishery owners to make a return of all migratory fish caught on their fishery to the relative District Fishery Board within 28 days of their requesting this information. Failure to comply with this legal requirement can result in a fine on proprietors of £2,500 per beat.
Q Why do I need to report within 48 hours?
A It is important that this information is logged into the system as soon as possible so the admin side of it is kept under control while its easy for members to remember. This requirement should be seen not as a chore but a part of the days fishing and will literally only take a minute.
Q Why do I need to put in a complete paper return as well?
A There are a number of reasons for this, one, to check the two systems against each other to ascertain their effectiveness, two to gather in information that we, as an Association require, as opposed to being a statutory requirement i.e. number of marked fish returned etc.
Q What will happen if I don't put these returns in as required?
A Not adhering to these requirements will mean we are breaking the law, we will not be able to manage our rivers and fish stocks as well as we could and it maybe be necessary to make non returns, including nil catches, a disciplinary offence with the consequences that might entail.
Q Where do I find my membership number?
A Its on the top right hand corner of your current year ADAA Membership card
Q Your name ?
A is as it appears on your membership card, this is to relate to the database being prepared.
Q Date?
A This is the exact date the catches were made
Q Species ?
A this means salmon, grilse, farmed salmon, sea trout, finnock, brown trout and rainbow trout
Q weight?
A this means to the nearest pound. Once in operation the computer based system will automatically differentiate between grilse / salmon and sea trout / finnock by weight. By way of assistance here is a link to a graph that can be printed off and used to estimate returned salmon's weight.
Q Returned / Kept
A self evident but never includes kelts or other unseasonal fish.
Other Q & As will be added as and when they come in, meantime I would emphasis this requirement should not be seen as an onerous task just part of the day's fishing to be done automatically by phone initially( 01569-731949) and in a few months on line. Thanks.
