The Professional Association of Environmental Agents of Cantabria (APAMC) sees it as essential to rethink the current management model for Atlantic salmon fishing (Salmo salar) in view of the "marked decline" in catches recorded in recent years. According to their details, in 2026 "historical lows" have been reached, with only three salmon caught, which is why they are proposing that a temporary ban be established in 2027.
After carrying out an internal survey among its members and gathering the opinion of the rest of the body of natural environment agents, APAMC says it has verified "broad support" for the implementation, at least, of a temporary salmon ban, given the "worrying situation of the species," according to what it stated this Monday in a statement.
Although the group does not identify traditional recreational fishing as one of the main factors behind the decline of Atlantic salmon, the association maintains that "it is neither sustainable nor justified to continue extracting the scarce specimens that manage to make their way up our rivers, especially in the current context of decline of the species".
In this context, APAMC urges the regional Administration to study the implementation of a temporary ban during the 2027 season, and does not rule out the adoption of "more restrictive measures that make it possible to guarantee the conservation and recovery of salmon populations". This request fits within the path opened by other communities, such as Galicia, "which has banned fishing this year", and Asturias, "which has approved a total ban for 2027".
"These decisions make clear the need to address the conservation of the species in a coordinated way along the Cantabrian coast. The current situation requires firm and responsible decisions that prioritize the conservation of Atlantic salmon and ensure the future of this emblematic species in the rivers of Cantabria," the association concluded.