We’re delighted to help promote the Malloch Trophy, which is organised by one of our members, the Tay Rivers Trust. In the past, the trophy was awarded to the angler who catches the heaviest fish caught on the fly, but in recent years the criteria has been widened. As the fish caught are now released, exact weights are often unknown, so it is now goes to the ‘best’ fly-caught salmon on a Scottish river. This adjustment reflects a growing awareness of the need to integrate conservation principles into angling traditions, ensuring a sustainable future for our wild fish populations. The trophy is a great way to promote and celebrate catch and release in Scotland. In terms of eligibility, any Atlantic salmon over 20lbs (caught on the fly in Scotland and safely returned) may be considered, and the deadline for entries is 31st December 2024. Fisheries Management Scotland is encouraged by the steps such initiatives are taking to prioritise the safety and welfare of fish.

Last year’s winner was Mary Deakin from Lower Langford, Somerset. Mary continued a great tradition of women anglers catching large and notable salmon. Mary was fishing on the River Tweed and landed a salmon which weighed 31 pounds. It is even more remarkable given that this is only the second salmon she had ever caught, her first being a few years previously on the same beat and weighing much less. Mary is the fourth woman to be awarded the Malloch Trophy since Lady Burnett was the first recipient of the trophy in 1972 for a 43-pound fish which was also caught on the River Tweed. The record salmon ever landed on rod and line was also caught by a female angler, Georgina Ballantine in 1922 with a 64-pound fish from the River Tay.

More information can be found here.