Isle of Man angling stewardship measures for Atlantic salmon

Overview

This consultation is seeking views on whether proposed angling restrictions for Atlantic salmon may support their conservation and provide feedback on the development of a Long‑Term Management Plan (‘LTMP’).

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) – Braddan Atlantagh – are now classified as near threatened after a 23% global population decline between 2006 and 2020, a trend echoed by international bodies and consistent with Isle of Man monitoring, which shows continued local declines driven by multiple pressures, including human exploitation. Recent findings from the IOM Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring Programme Report 2025 (opens in a new tab) indicate that without stronger conservation measures, such as tighter licence restrictions, stocks are likely to fall further.

Anglers, the Recreational Fisheries Management Board (‘RFMB’), and conservation groups have all called for more proactive action from of Environment, Food and Agriculture (‘the Department’) as the Department has a duty under the Fisheries Act 2012 (‘FA 2012’) under section 5, to have regard to conserve freshwater flora and fauna and the freshwater environment. Research conducted by the RFMB recommends strengthening licence conditions, including adopting ‘catch and release’ only and restricting tackle to barbless hooks to help protect remaining stocks, which is supported by the Department.

The consultation provides an opportunity for anglers, stakeholders to share their perspectives, experiences and suggestions. The feedback collected will help shape potential measures towards the conservation of Atlantic salmon. All responses will be carefully considered and a report summarising the findings will be submitted to the minister and Department executive leadership.

Why your views matter

This consultation aims to gather information and opinions on the contribution that proposed angler conservation measures including catch‑and‑release of Atlantic salmon and the use of barbless hooks only, may have towards salmon conservation. These measures are to be introduced voluntarily for the 2026/27 season, with potential regulation planned for 2027/28. Feedback is sought on the development of a Long Term Management Plan to better align the current management of Isle of Man Atlantic salmon populations, with declines seen locally and internationally, associated with wide ranging causes, many of which are unknown.

Consultations allow the public to contribute directly to Government proposals, ensuring open, two‑way communication that strengthens policy development. Feedback may be gathered through written submissions, meetings, surveys or online forums, and is analysed to help shape, refine or finalise policies and legislation. While consultations cannot address individual cases, they play an essential role in guiding Government decisions. In managing freshwater ecosystems, the Department is committed to working collaboratively with Isle of Man residents and stakeholders to support informed, sustainable and cohesive approaches to inland fisheries management.

Public consultation on LTMP development

Public consultation now plays a vital role in determining the future direction of Atlantic salmon management on the Isle of Man. As custodians of a shared natural resource, the views of anglers, conservation groups, landowners, and the wider public are essential in developing a balanced, evidence‑based approach. By contributing to this consultation, the community can help shape a sustainable long‑term strategy that protects Atlantic salmon, supports recreational angling, and upholds the values of our UNESCO Biosphere for generations to come.

Reasonable adjustments and alternative formats

The Department is committed to equal opportunities and our aim is to make our documents easy to use and accessible to all.

We will take steps to accommodate any reasonable adjustments and provide such assistance as you may reasonably require to enable you to access or reply to this consultation.

If you would like to receive this document in another format or need assistance with accessing or replying to this consultation, please email John.Ward@gov.im or telephone +44 1624 685857.

Responding to this consultation and questions

You can respond to this consultation online by clicking on the 'Online Survey' link below. Alternatively, you can download a paper version of this consultation in the 'Related' section below and email it to John.Ward@gov.im or post it to: 

John Ward – Inland Fisheries Policy Manager,
Thie Slieau Whallian,
Foxdale Road,
St Johns,
Isle of Man,
IM4 3AS.

What happens next

This consultation is being launched for a period of 6 weeks. After the consultation closes, the Department for Enterprise will review all responses made. Following this, an update will be provided.

A summary of consultation responses will be made available on this page no later than July 2027.