There has been a voluntary code in place on river allowing an enhanced upstream migration of salmon onto the redds following the bold moves taken by the river board to arrest the decline of salmon stocks in the early 1990`s.At the time of introduction the code was viewed as a policy that would drive fishers away and would see the demise of the reputation and success of the river system.Well the Nay-Sayers were wrong,and how,the river was given the opportunity to start to rehabilitate itself and allow vital stocks to reach the redds in significantly improved numbers.This initiative has seen an ongoing rise in stocks within the system over the years, and this has proved that catch and release, allied with enhanced habitat remedial work, and restoration and maintenance of river banks,together with reduction and removal of marine interceptory nets have all contributed to a feeling of considerable optimism amongst anglers when the stocks are visibly showing signs of recovery.We all cannot afford to be complacent and must maintain best practise to safeguard future generations of stocks for future generations of anglers.Therefore to that end we detail the current conservation code for the year 2008 below.Please would all adhere to, and promote the conservation code for everyones benefit.

A) For 2008 the Fishing Season will be from 1st February to 15th October, including a
trial extension period of two weeks. It is proposed that the Conservation Code
restricts this extension to the portion of the river downstream of Aboyne Bridge
and that no fishing takes place upstream of that bridge in the month of October.

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

C) Spinning is permitted as an option for the whole river, at the beats’ discretion, from
the 1st February to the 15th April and, from the top of Maryculter Beat downstream
only, spinning as an additional option in August and September. Any spinning lure
must have only one single hook with a maximum size 4 that is crimped or barbless.
It is recommended that fly fishing should always be given a fair try in preference to
spinning.

D) All fly hooks should be barbless or crimped. Treble hooks should not be used.

E) Injured or damaged fish should be handed to the proprietor. This applies to all
beats. (Time-share managers and Angling Associations to introduce an acceptable
solution, which removes any temptation to declare a fish as being injured and, thus,
an excuse for its retention).

F) Sea-trout and Finnock: All sea-trout under 1½ lbs (typically less than 15½" or
39 cm) and over 3lbs (typically greater than 20" or 51.0 cm) should be released.
Anglers may kill the 2nd, 4th, 6th, etc. sea trout caught, within the prescribed weight
limits, but are encouraged not to do so.

G) It is illegal to sell rod caught wild salmon or sea trout.
Remember, the Dee DSFB need the vital help and support of all proprietors, ghillies and
anglers to realize the twin objectives of sustaining and enhancing the river’s fish stocks
and maintaining a viable thriving fishery.