SCOTLAND’S FISHERIES Trusts are to receive Scottish Government funding of £400,000 annually for the next three years, writes Ken Bell, angling correspondent.

The announcement comes on the eve of the annual conference of the Rivers and Fisheries Trusts of Scotland (RAFTS) in the Birnam Institute today.

In making the grant, the Scottish Government recognises the importance of the work Scotland’s network of fisheries trusts does.

In return, each trust will implement fisheries management plans for Scotland’s river systems.

These local plans will help inform future government policy for Scotland’s freshwater fisheries, and set out a clear programme of action to improve, protect and manage valuable fish populations and fisheries.

Callum Sinclair, director of RAFTS, said, “Our focus will be on delivering practical improvement action across Scotland that will help to ensure that our fish and fisheries remain the envy of others across the world.”

He added, “We look forward to bringing these plans forward and, more importantly, to implementing their practical actions.”

Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said, “Scotland has a world-class fishery resource, which requires careful management.

“I am pleased that the government is able to work with RAFTS in taking forward their work in the next three years.

“This work will inform river managers on the action they require to take to improve their fisheries and to take positive steps towards delivering these improvements.”

Roger Brook, chairman of RAFTS, added, “This is an innovative example of government being prepared to support a bottom-up approach to a national issue.

“Fishery management plans begin with biologists and river managers monitoring waters at a local level and developing plans for protecting and enhancing those habitats.

“These local plans are built into district plans and eventually they cover the nation.

“We are grateful to the Scottish Government for their confidence in us to be responsible for these important national assets.”