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Muirkirk Angling Association

KNOW THE RULES, FISH RESPONSIBLY

A gentle reminder that it is the responsibility of all members to report any suspicious activity or behavior, such as poaching or pollution. These incidents should be immediately reported to a member of the committee or any of the club officials. Your actions help protect the River Ayr's delicate ecosystem and maintain the sustainability of its fish populations.

RIVER AYR FISHING RULES


SEASON 2024: SALMON AND SEA TROUT - CATCH AND RELEASE ONLY.

PLEASE NOTE: EELS ARE A PROTECTED SPECIES AND MUST BE RETURNED IMMEDIATELY TO THE RIVER WITHOUT ANY EXCEPTION.


BAG LIMITS AND FISHING REGULATIONS

ALL SEA TROUT MUST BE RETURNED TO THE RIVER TO PRESERVE POPULATION NUMBERS AND MAINTAIN THE SPECIES’ HEALTH.

Anglers are permitted to catch up to 6 TROUT PER DAY. Please be mindful of the size and health of each fish before releasing them back into the river.

Fishing with shrimp or prawns is prohibited on the River Ayr to ensure the protection of local fish species and the environment.

Any TROUT THAT MEASURES UNDER 10 INCHES MUST BE RELEASED IMMEDIATELY. This is to help the fish population grow and ensure sustainable fishing for future generations.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should fish be gutted on the riverbanks. Fish must be handled carefully and released as soon as possible to minimize stress.

TO CONSERVE THE RIVER BANKS, please refrain from digging for bait or disturbing the river’s natural habitat. We encourage all anglers to leave the environment as they found it, if not better.


RIVER HEIGHT MARKERS

1. WELLWOOD BRIDGE (CUMNOCK ROAD). This marker provides an indication of water levels that are important for safe fishing.

2. OLD HUMPBACK BRIDGE (SORN ROAD). Use this marker as a reference for local fishing conditions.

3. POST IN WATER AT LIMMERHAIGH BRIDGE (SORN ROAD). Ensure you check the water levels before heading out to fish at this location.


ILLEGAL TAKING OF FISH

IF YOU WITNESS THE ILLEGAL TAKING OF FISH, IMMEDIATELY CONTACT THE NEAREST POLICE STATION WITHOUT DISTURBING THE OFFENDERS. This will help law enforcement gather evidence to secure a prosecution. A REWARD OF FIFTY POUNDS (£50) WILL BE AWARDED FOR ANY CREDIBLE EVIDENCE LEADING TO A CONVICTION.


POLLUTION

As part of our commitment to protecting the river’s ecosystem, it is also crucial to report any pollution incidents. All members must remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, including pollution or poaching. Contact any committee member or club official immediately if you spot something concerning. Protecting the river and surrounding environment is everyone’s responsibility.


USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS FOR REPORTING ISSUES

POLICE: 01290 30600. This number can be used to report any illegal activity or emergencies related to fishing and angling.

POLLUTION INCIDENTS: Contact the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (S.E.P.A.) at either 01355 574200 (East Kilbride) or 01292 294000 (Ayr) to report any pollution in the River Ayr.

AYR TRUST: 01292 521223. The Ayr Trust can assist in resolving environmental and conservation issues related to the River Ayr.

RIVER AYR HEAD BAILIFF: 01292 478683. Reach out to the head bailiff for any concerns related to fishing activities or to report violations.