Declining wild salmon population prompts Fish & Game forum

The salmon – known as the King, Chinook or Quinnat – is found mainly on the West Coast, Canterbury, Otago and Marlborough.

The species spends much of its life at sea and is highly valued by freshwater anglers, who target the fish during its migratory spawning runs up many of the South Island’s major rivers.

The salmon season draws anglers from overseas and nationally from all walks of life and all corners of the country. 

However, in recent years, the numbers of salmon spawning has declined and Fish & Game is organising a two day public symposium in November to discuss the issue.

Symposium organiser Matthew Hall says declining salmon populations are causing increasing concern among anglers and many have called for a summit meeting.

The symposium is being organised by Fish & Game’s two Canterbury regions, Central South Island and North Canterbury.

The North Canterbury region’s chair Trevor Isitt says it will provide a real opportunity for concerned anglers to have their say.

“There is a real desire by anglers to get to the bottom of what is causing the runs of wild salmon to drop from their historic highs.   While there is a lot of speculation and a wide range of theories, the exact reasons remain elusive.

“We want the symposium to help develop a solid and realistic action plan which will see the magnificent runs of salmon restored to their past glory,” Mr Isitt says.

Those attending will be asked to pay a registration fee set as a contribution towards the costs while Fish & Game will also help with the expenses involved.

The symposium is being held at the Hotel Ashburton on the weekend of November 11 and 12.  

Registrations will be opening soon.