Increase in salmon migration is down to a healthier River Severn
The annual salmon migration is under way – and this year the numbers jumping appear to be greater than ever.
Sir John Roberts, chairman of the Shropshire Anglers' Federation, said the number of fish making the trip from the south of the county to waters close to Newtown and the Vyrnwy, are up on previous years – an indication the River Severn in Shrewsbury is getting cleaner and healthier.
He said: "Watching them jump is a real spectacle, with acrobatics, double somersaults. You name it, nature has it.
"They show unequalled determination, running for home against the clock.
"Last year we estimate that 3,000 salmon ran up the river through Shrewsbury and this year we do expect the figure to be up on that.
"Conditions are perfect for them, the river is healthy and numbers of salmon in the river are increasing. Three years ago, two salmon were caught and this year we have had 37 caught, with the biggest weighing in at 34lbs."
The salmon, which can be up to six years old, make the annual migration to spawning grounds further upstream. But they have one hurdle to cross – the weir at Sydney Avenue in Castlefields, Shrewsbury.
"At this time of year, you can see them have a short burst to have a look at the weir and drop back to rest," said Sir John. "Five minutes later they explode in the general direction of the weir.
"Then they make a mighty attempt to pump up the gradient. Time and time again they lose out to the flow and cascade back into the weir pool.
"Eventually some manage to clear the weir crest but others fail and finally find the fish pass and work a way up the ladder.
"It takes a great deal out of the fish physically and after they have made three or four attempts and failed they will drop back down to rest in deeper pools in the river and have another attempt after a couple of days. Then they will try again.
"Once they have done so, they make their way up river to Newtown and beyond, although some have been spotted spawning in the nearby Reabrook, which is a small tributary."
Barbel, dace and ruff have also been spotted in the river in increasing numbers.
