Wildlife Conservation

Wild Sea Trout Conservation and River Welfare

Sea trout are the sea-run form of brown trout, undertaking challenging migrations between rivers and sea. Barrier removal, water quality and predation management are key to their welfare.

Key Facts

Sea trout migrate from freshwater rivers to the sea and return to breed, often dying after spawning
River barriers including weirs and dams prevent migration and reduce breeding success
Sea lice from salmon farms can affect wild sea trout in adjacent estuaries
Water temperature and drought affect sea trout welfare and migration timing
Sea trout are highly valued for angling but populations have declined in many rivers

Welfare Considerations

Sea trout welfare depends on the entire catchment - from river to sea and back. Barrier removal, farm run-off reduction and sea lice management are collectively essential for sea trout welfare and conservation.

What You Can Do

Support river barrier removal campaigns in sea trout river catchments
Advocate for sea lice monitoring requirements near salmon farms in sea trout catchments
Report sea trout sightings and counts to relevant river trust organisations