An Angus man has denied charges of poaching salmon from waters near Arbroath.
Thomas Mark Yule, 41, of David’s Hill in St Vigeans, is alleged to have breached the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003 on June 7 by committing a number of fishing offences at Elliot Sands.
It is alleged on June 7, Yule was found in possession of salmon or trout, or an instrument, which would be used in the taking of salmon or trout, contrary to the 2003 Act.
He is also charged with fishing or taking salmon at Elliot Sands in Arbroath by ways other than rod and line as well as using a monofilament net and fishing/taking the salmon from waters within the Tay District Salmon Fishery Board’s boundaries without permission.
A defence agent at Arbroath Sheriff Court said they had been in discussions with the Crown and wanted further time to prepare for the trial.
She said the defence was now looking at the title of the land and the fishing rights.
She said: “There was public right to fish for salmon on certain parts.”
The court heard the case may well resolve before the trial, which is set for November 6.
Sheriff Peter Paterson fixed a further intermediate diet for next Tuesday to see where matters stand.