for Grayling

A Code of Conduct for winter fishing of Grayling on
Tweed and its tributaries

[REVISED 2005]

CONTENTS

Introduction
Written permission
Precedence
Salmon spawning areas
Equipment
Limits
Handling and returning fish
Conduct

INTRODUCTION

Most of the Angling Associations allow grayling fishing on their trout permit. Some Associations and Proprietors now allow grayling fishing in the winter. These fishers are very welcome and offer another dimension and opportunity to the Tweed system. They become part of a system where groups of fishers have to co-exist with other groups. If all the groups recognise and respect the rights and needs of the others they can collectively add to the attraction and reputation of the Tweed system.

The purpose of this code is to encourage such standards and to avoid behaviour which may bring the sport into disrepute.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CODE

1. Written Permission. The Tweed & Eye are covered by a Protection Order. This means that written permission must be obtained before commencing to fish and must be carried by the fisher. The rules vary from area to area and they must be observed.

2. Precedence. In some areas, and at some times (e.g. February and March), there may be overlap with salmon fishing. In all such cases precedence must be given to salmon fishers.

3. Salmon Spawning Areas. Winter grayling fishing coincides with the salmon spawning time. Care must be taken not to wade over, or fish in, obvious spawning areas. It is an offence to knowingly disturb spawning beds and this may lead to prosecution. The practice of "shuffling" is, therefore, strictly prohibited and, at the very least, anyone found using this practice will have his or her permission to fish removed throughout the catchment.

4. Equipment.
a) Only one, single-handed hand-held fly rod may be used by each angler.

b) Double handed rods must not be used.

c) Any spinning bait or line is strictly prohibited.

d) A maximum breaking strain of no more than 4lbs must be used for at least the last 18" of the leader.

e) Although fly fishing is encouraged, for bait fishing a maximum hook size of 14 is recommended. Larger hooks are permitted for pre-tied nymphs and "bugs".

5. Limits. A size limit of 10" and a bag limit of 2 fish is recommended.

6. Handling & Returning Fish. During the trout close season, all species other than grayling must be carefully returned to the water.

Always use wet hands when handling fish. Try to unhook fish in the water. This is less stressful and less likely to damage the fish. If a fish has swallowed a hook, cut off the spare nylon rather than damage the fish. Digestive fluids and rust will eventually break down the hook.

7. Conduct. Follow the Country Code. Be considerate to other people, fishers and non-fishers alike. Park wisely, close gates, use recognised access routes and, very importantly, do not leave rubbish.

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