The importance of Scotland's network of fisheries trusts has been recognised by Scottish Government funding of £400,000 for each of the next three years.
The support is to be provided through the Rivers and Fisheries Trusts of Scotland (Rafts) and, in return, each fishery trust will produce and implement management plans for river systems across Scotland. These local plans will help to inform future government policy for Scotland's freshwater fisheries and set out a clear programme of action to improve, protect and better manage fish populations and fisheries.
"Scotland has a world-class fishery resource which requires careful management," said Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment.
"I am pleased that government is able to work with Rafts in taking forward their work in the next three years. This work will inform river managers on the action they require to take to improve their fisheries and to take positive steps towards delivering these improvements."
Roger Brook, chairman of Rafts, added: "These local plans are built into district plans and eventually they cover the nation.
"We are grateful to the Scottish Government for their confidence in us to be responsible for these important national assets."
Callum Sinclair, director of Rafts, said the plans would allow others to identify priorities they share with the trusts.
The Rafts annual conference takes place at Birnam today where the theme of this year's conference is Fishery Management Planning: developing plans that will make a difference.
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