Definition Of A Wild Brown Trout:
Indeed the definition of a "wild brown trout" is under scrutiny by a number of different sources. A recent splinter group of the Salmon and Trout association formed, the group named themselves the Wild Trout Society. The intention of this group is to preserve the genuine wild trout of the British Isles. However other experts claim that the wild brown trout no longer exists. For example Steve Partons who writes for the 'Still Water Trout Angler' firmly believes that the introduction of stocking tactics during the last century corrupted environmentally bred-in characteristics of the native populations therefore destroying in theory the existence of wild brown trout within the British Isles. However this will be discussed in further detail as research has been carried out to assess the potential genetic changes brought about through stocking. Although it is the authors belief that there are upland areas, particularly in Ireland which were not stocked, and to date still remain with the original gene pool. Of the 3,091km of river of fishable -size reported to contain brown trout, 42% is regarded as good wild brown trout fishing, whilst 17% is supported by stocking. Stocking occurs predominantly in the more industrial areas and more usually in rivers without notable migratory stocks. Approximately 1,300 km of river exists above impassable barriers where, in the absence of stocking, trout populations may be regarded as genetically distinct . This project looks at preserving the wild brown trout in its natural environment which is under threat from a number of different sources all of which will be discussed in detail. The wild brown trout is also referred to as resident trout as it does not migrate, unlike other trout such as the sewen (sea trout).