The Government of the Principality of Asturias has announced its intention to prohibit the regular fishing of Atlantic salmon during the 2027 season , a measure aimed at halting the historic decline of this emblematic species of Asturian rivers. The proposal, which will be submitted to the Council for Aquatic Ecosystems and Inland Fisheries, is based on the precautionary principle and a wide range of scientific data reflecting a negative trend in salmon populations.
The decision is not absolute, as it includes exceptions to maintain the tradition of the Campanu (first salmon of the season) and breeding and restocking projects , such as the ARCA program promoted by the Las Mestas del Narcea Fishermen's Association. The ban comes after a season that ended with just 108 catches, 18% fewer than the previous year, and in a context of growing concern about the survival of the species on the Iberian Peninsula.
A temporary ban with exceptions
The Regional Ministry of Rural Affairs and Agricultural Policy, led by Marcelino Marcos, explained that the proposal establishes a general ban on regular salmon fishing , but allows the capture of the first salmon caught in each river basin, known as the Campanu , to preserve traditional auctions and celebrations. Once this fish is caught, the basin is closed for the rest of the season. In addition, the capture of live salmon for breeding and restocking purposes is authorized, always under technical supervision and specific protocols.
The councilor emphasized that the measure reflects a historical trend, not a one-off event , and that it will be combined with increased financial support for fishing associations. Specifically, the funding for river fishing associations, currently at €91.000, will be increased, and a dedicated grant will be established for the ARCA project. A reduction in fees and public prices for issuing licenses and permits is also planned.
Political and social reactions
The announcement has sparked intense political debate. While left-wing parties such as the PSOE, IU, and Somos Asturies support the ban, considering it based on scientific criteria , the right wing, led by the PP and Foro Asturias, denounces it as a "failure" and a "betrayal." PP deputy Luis Venta stated that the ban is the only response from the Barbón government to cover up years of inaction, and that the fishermen, who have cared for the rivers, are the ones who suffer the most. For his part, Adrián Pumares, of Foro, advocated for a comprehensive recovery plan with alternative measures such as the installation of fish counters and predator control.
From the scientific and environmental sectors, opinions diverge. Several biologists and associations like SaxÃfraga consider the fishing ban necessary but insufficient , and are calling for a total prohibition that includes the first salmon of the season (campanu) and restocking efforts, as well as the inclusion of Atlantic salmon on the List of Wild Species under Special Protection (LESPRE). The Principality of Asturias, however, has requested that the Ministry halt this process in order to maintain regional management.
Concerns of fishermen and mayors
Fishing associations have expressed their discontent with the way the measure was communicated. Enrique Berrocal, president of Las Mestas del Narcea, stated that they found out "three minutes before the press conference" and are demanding immediate dialogue. They fear that the fishing ban, coupled with the lack of support, will lead to the disappearance of many associations and, with them, the restocking and conservation efforts in the rivers. They also point to other factors affecting salmon, such as rising water temperatures, the presence of canoes on the Sella River, and pressure from predators like otters and cormorants.
The mayors of the salmon-producing municipalities have also expressed their concern about the economic impact. The mayor of Peñamellera Baja, José Manuel Fernández, described the ban as "a death foretold" for the Cares-Deva River, and warned that the local hospitality industry, which grew up around salmon fishing, will be severely affected. From Cangas del Narcea, José Luis Fontaniella lamented the ban and advocated for more proactive river management.
Complementary measures and scientific monitoring
To accompany the fishing ban, the Principality has announced increased scientific monitoring. Underwater censuses, counter data, and electrofishing data will be completed in September to determine juvenile recruitment. Legal control of cormorants will also continue, and studies will begin on the impact of otters on spawning salmon. Regional Minister Marcos emphasized that the ban is not an isolated measure, but rather part of a strategy that combines protection, financial support, and active management of the factors affecting the species.
The proposed temporary salmon fishing ban in Asturias until 2027, with its exceptions and complementary measures, marks a turning point in the management of a species whose catches have been drastically reduced in recent decades. The debate continues as to whether the ban is sufficient or whether it should be accompanied by more ambitious actions regarding rivers and predators, while fishermen, environmentalists, and politicians seek a balance between conservation and tradition.
