Fishing Regulations

When booking fishing you need to be aware of what you can and cannot do when you fish. There are legal requirements, Conservation codes, individual beat rules, and booking agency conditions that all need to be taken into account. These generally fall into three main categories:

River Regulations

To help prevent an outbreak of Gyrodactylus Salaris which has had catastrophic effects on some foreign rivers, all rods fishing must complete a Gyrodactylus declaration on arrival at the fishery. This states that either you have not used your fishing tackle abroad in the last three months, or you have done so and had it properly sterilised, or you have done so and NOT had it sterilised. In the latter case, you must agree to sterilisation taking place before you start fishing, and accept that there may be some delay in getting this organised. A copy of the declaration form can be seen at here

The Dee Conservation Code 2013

A. The season will run from 1st February to 15th October up to Aboyne Bridge. Above Aboyne Bridge the season will close on 30th September.

B. Salmon and Grilse: There should be 100% catch and release for the entire season.

Sea Trout There should be 100% catch and release for the entire season. (incl Finnock):

C. At the beat's discretion spinning is a permitted option for the whole river between 1st February and 15th April. In addition spinning is permitted in August and September from the top of Maryculter Beat downstream. It is recommended that fly fishing should always be given a fair try in preference to spinning. Note spinning is not permitted anywhere in October.

D. It is recommended that all hooks should be barbless or crimped. No treble hooks should be used.

E. Injured or damaged fish should be handed to the proprietor. This applies to all beats.

F. It is illegal to sell rod caught wild salmon or sea trout.

G. All anglers are requested to read and act upon the biosecurity measures in place for each beat to prevent the introduction of Gyrodactylus salaris and other diseases to the Dee. This will involve the disinfection of waders and landing nets prior to fishing. Most beats have the appropriate facilities on site but it may be necessary to check whether you will be required to disinfect the equipment prior to arrival or at one of the disinfecting stations listed on www.fishdee.co.uk.

Remember, the Dee DSFB needs the vital help and support of all Proprietors, Ghillies and Anglers to realise the twin objectives of sustaining and enhancing the river's fish stocks and maintaining a viable, thriving fishery.