The Principality proposes a temporary ban on salmon fishing in Asturias

The Government of the Principality of Asturias has announced its intention to establish a temporary ban on Atlantic salmon fishing during the 2027 season. The measure, announced by the Minister of Rural Affairs and Agricultural Policy, Marcelino Marcos, aims to halt the sharp decline the species has been experiencing in Asturian rivers. The proposal will be submitted to the Council for Aquatic Ecosystems and Inland Fisheries, presumably between the end of September and the beginning of October.

The decision came as no surprise, as data from the last season confirmed a downward trend that has worsened over the years. The 2026 season ended with 108 specimens caught , 18% fewer than the previous year, representing one of the lowest figures since records began. The councilor emphasized that the ban is based on historical trends, not a one-off situation, and that it is grounded in the precautionary principle and available scientific information.

A decision backed by science and historical trend

Regional Minister Marcelino Marcos explained that the situation of Atlantic salmon cannot be analyzed solely from a fishing perspective. It is a migratory species subject to multiple factors, such as habitat transformation, obstacles in rivers, water conditions, marine survival rates, environmental changes, and pressure from various predators. The historical trend of populations shows a sustained decline that led to a record low in 2026, with only 108 catches across the entire region. In the Eo River, for example, no salmon were caught this season.

Marcos emphasized that the response is not to a single data point, but to a growing trend. "Protecting a species requires anticipation and applying the precautionary principle," he stated. The fishing ban will be temporary, and its continuation will be evaluated annually based on the evolution of scientific indicators. The Principality also noted that progressive restrictions have been implemented in recent years, such as reduced quotas, the creation of breeding reserves, and limitations on fishing hours and bait.

Exceptions to the ban: the Campanu and restocking projects

Despite the general ban on ordinary fishing, the proposal includes two important exceptions. The first is the traditional capture of the 'Campanu', the first salmon of the season in each river basin. Fishing will be permitted in each river only until this first salmon is caught , at which point the basin will be closed for the remainder of the season. This allows the auctions and celebrations associated with this tradition to continue, with a single, controlled catch.

The second exception applies to the authorized capture of live specimens intended for breeding and restocking projects, such as the ARCA program, promoted by the Las Mestas del Narcea Fishermen's Association. These fish are not taken for consumption, but are used as breeding stock to obtain fry and reinforce the populations in their own river basin. These operations will be carried out under technical supervision and according to specific protocols.

Support for the sector and predator management

The Principality is aware that the fishing ban will have an impact on the river fishing sector. Therefore, the measure will be accompanied by increased financial support for fishing cooperatives, which participate in river conservation, restocking, and population monitoring. The support program for river fishing associations, currently funded with €91.000, will be increased in next year's budget . In addition, a specific grant will be allocated for the ARCA project.

The regional budget will also include a reduction in fees and public prices for issuing licenses and permits. "We don't want rivers without salmon, but neither do we want rivers without fishermen," the regional minister summarized, advocating for combining the temporary fishing ban with increased financial support, more restocking efforts, and more scientific monitoring.

Regarding natural predators, the Asturian government has announced that it will continue its cormorant population control program and will facilitate sea bass fishing, expanding it to stretches further upstream than those currently authorized. Specific studies will also be initiated on the impact of otters on spawning salmon , a factor that has not been thoroughly analyzed until now.

Political reactions and rejection of inclusion in Lespre

The proposed fishing ban has generated mixed reactions across the Asturian political spectrum. Adrián Pumares, spokesperson for Foro Asturias, described the measure as "an admission of failure" and accused the Barbón government of making fishermen bear the consequences of years of inaction. Pumares argues that salmon recovery should be based on scientific data and collaboration with fishing associations , rather than resorting to blanket bans. His party proposes installing fish counters in all salmon river basins, establishing dynamic quotas, promoting research programs with the University of Oviedo, and controlling predators such as sea bass and cormorants.

For its part, United Left-Call for Asturias, the junior partner in the government, has criticized the management of the Regional Ministry of Rural Affairs and demanded a total ban to preserve the species. IU-CA spokesperson Xabel Vegas described the situation as "absolutely worrying" and "unprecedented," and warned that, if no action is taken, "the last salmon caught in Asturias will be seen very soon."

Meanwhile, the Principality of Asturias has requested that the Ministry for Ecological Transition halt the process of including Atlantic salmon in the List of Wild Species under Special Protection (LESPRE). Regional Minister Marcos believes that inclusion in the LESPRE is not the most effective solution and that Asturias should maintain its capacity for autonomous management, based on scientific criteria and adapted to each river basin. This position coincides with that of Foro Asturias, which also opposes such classification.

However, the temporary ban on salmon fishing in Asturias until 2027 is presented as an emergency measure in response to the species' alarming decline, but it is not without controversy. The Asturian government is advocating a combination of restrictions, aid to the sector, and predator control , while the opposition and environmental groups disagree on the scope of the measures. What seems clear is that the situation of Atlantic salmon in Asturian rivers requires a comprehensive, long-term strategy involving all stakeholders.