Where the Wild Salmon Run: Reflections of a Scottish Angler

SECOND EDITION. (2021). The wild Atlantic salmon in Scotland is a fish of many facets. It is a: Cultural Icon. Atlantic salmon occupy a prominent position in the cultural mythology of Scotland. The Picts carved its image on stones. The Celts told tales of the Salmon of Wisdom.Biodiversity. The salmon is a key element in both the freshwater and the marine ecosystems.Food. Despite modern fish farming, wild salmon is still a premium food product, fetching high prices at Billingsgate and Harrods. Economic. The economic value of wild salmon angling, in terms of income, jobs and capital values, is considerable, particularly in fragile rural areas. Recreation. Salmon angling is an old-established, popular and healthy outdoor recreation, with a respected heritage in Scotland. This book seeks to tell its story. Most of the "Reflections" in this book have been published as articles in the angling or countryside press over the past 50 years. The chapters describe the salmon in its place in the geography, biodiversity, economy and culture of Scotland. They form a record - a Reflection - of times past but they also try to explain, or give context to, the present and perhaps the future.This 'Second Edition' contains some new chapters and updates while retaining the sense of the 'period' when they were first created.