Hot weather leads to fishery closures

In Wales, some rivers and lakes are reported to have seen temperatures of 24 degrees recorded recently, far too high for the safe return of many freshwater species.

According to a report on the Angling Trust’s ‘Fishing in Wales’ website, the prolonged hot and dry weather is causing problems in Welsh rivers, lakes and canals where low oxygen levels, low river flows and elevated water temperatures can lead to increased stress on fish. Catching fish in these conditions often leads to mortality, even after a careful release.

When water temperatures are over 20 degrees many popular fish species are likely to die after capture.

A number of Welsh organisations, fisheries and clubs – river and stillwater – have closed or are considering closing bookings for fishing and all angling activity. Before fishing it is advisable to check through their social media pages and websites to see if angling activity has been suspended.

As of 19/07/2022 the following organisations and venues have closed for further bookings or stopped fishing temporarily:

– Gwent Angling Society (All waters)

– Hay and Warren (River Wye)

– Adam Fisher Angling Dreams (River Wye)

– Glamorgan Angling Association (River Wye)

– Armastone (River Wye)

– Wye & Usk Foundation Fishing Passport (Middle/lower Wye and Usk beats)

– Ross on Wye AC

– Hereford & District AA

– Caerphilly & District AA (All waters)

– ISCA Angling club (river Usk beats)

– Islwyn AA – River Ebbw

– Merthyr Tydfil AA (river Usk beats)

– Crickhowell & District (Usk)

– Pant y bedw fishery

– Monmouth & District (Wye)

– Llandeilo Angling Association (Towy)

– Newport AA (Wye)

Upland areas in Wales are generally cooler; heavily shaded mountain rivers, small streams, high wild lakes and deep reservoirs in mountainous elevations may be OK, especially if fished early or late when temperatures are at their lowest. If in doubt contact the fishery or club you are intending to visit before traveling.

Vulnerable Species:

Salmon, all trout species, grayling and pike are especially vulnerable to angling pressure in warm water conditions with low oxygen levels. Chub and barbel also can be susceptible in extreme heat, especially if not rested well before release. For more information on fish handling guidance and best practise, check out our blog here.

What can I fish for safely in freshwater?

Carp are a hardy fish and cope well in high water temperatures. As do grass carp, tench, bream and most other cyprinid fish.

Written by Peter Cliff
With career in Public Relations and journalism, Peter worked for local, regional and national newspapers before moving into Public Relations. A regular contributor to several major angling publications over the years, he launched Fisheries.co.uk in 1999.