updated: Wed, April 4, 2007 1:23
Historical byelaws, often based on the predilections of some of our forefathers, rather than any clear conservation background, have shaped the manner in which the Dart is fished. In contrast to some of our neighbouring rivers, the Dart is entirely "fly only" for sea trout fishing. The entire Dart above Holne Bridge is " fly only". The oft frowned upon " prawn fishing" is restricted to below Staverton Bridge. "Worm or bait fishing" or the use of a float is entirely prohibited. The conservation case for fishing method restriction is covered in the section on stock conservation below. However fishing method restriction is an emotive subject amongst the angling community as a whole and consensus views would not be forthcoming. It is well known that certain anglers favour "fly only" for all their fishing, often claiming on uncertain grounds that this is more skilful and makes any subsequent release of the fish more successful. Indeed this flawed philosophy is often reflected back by the Environment Agency, when they consider yet more restrictions on angling. Others would argue that it is in fact "prawn fishing", where the salmon are almost invariably hooked in the front of the mouth, that is the more successful in ensuring successful catch and release.
The Association Committee has over the past couple of decades tried to look above these emotive and divisive arguments and take the well being of the Association as a whole as its base guideline.
It has recognised the growth of the anti-bloodsport lobby over this time and it would not wish to add succour or ammunition to the antis by acting against any form of angling. At the same time it has recognised the limitations of its fishery on the Dart. Much of the lower water is slow flowing and heavily tree lined. Even if the Association were to undertake huge and controversial tree felling this water is not really suitable for fly fishing. At the same time it recognises that the capital value of its assets and therefore its ability to borrow additional sums, if required, is based on the numbers of fish caught and that spinning and prawn fishing may boost this value significantly. Overall, the Committee tries to achieve a balanced view and considers it entirely wrong for any Member to seek to bring their own personal preferences for a type of fishing to bear to the detriment of another Member.