The River Severn, with its wide estuary and large tidal range of up to eleven metres, presented many opportunities to the fishermen who developed various ways of catching the salmon.

Fishing weirs built from funnel shaped baskets "putts and putchers", Stop-Netting boats and hand held "Lave Nets". Further up river long net fishing using punts, coracles and also rod and line fishing.

Seine netters at Sunset.

Traditional methods of salmon fishing in the rivers and seas around our coasts have historically supplied many communities with gainful employment and a ready source of food. There always appeared to be a plentiful supply of fish, although it was recognised in the 13th century that controls on fishing would be necessary.

The advent of the industrial revolution brought about a marked decline in water quality and fish numbers. Despite the work of many groups to address problems at sea and in our rivers, salmon stocks are at dangerously low levels.

Few fishermen remain on the Severn - those that do making little money for their toils whilst maintaining a way of life gone by.

The Atlantic Salmon is part of our folklore and heritage, provider of sustenance and enjoyment to many and an indicator of the state of our oceans and rivers and, like many of its relations, needs preserving for the benefit of all.