New research from the Environment Agency (EA), Cefas, and Natural Resources Wales has confirmed that salmon stocks in England have reached their lowest level since records began. The Atlantic Salmon Stock Assessment for 2025 indicates that 95% of principal salmon rivers are now below the level required to sustain their populations, a rise from 88% in the previous year's assessment.
Historically, 15 to 20 young salmon out of every 100 that migrated to sea would return as adults; however, this figure has now dropped to only one or two. While this decline is observed across the North Atlantic and much of the cause lies at sea, analysis shows that in rivers, the reduction in stocks is driven by water quantity, water quality, and damaged habitats.
The EA has outlined new commitments to tackle these issues by 2032. These plans include restoring 2,282 hectares of peatland, improving water flow below reservoirs, and closely monitoring water companies to prevent excessive water abstraction. Additionally, the EA will increase inspections of farms and wastewater treatment works, fund over 800 projects to reduce wastewater pollution, clear or improve 105 barriers blocking salmon, restore habitat at 252 sites, and plant trees along 648 hectares of riverbank.
Philip Duffy, Environment Agency Chief Executive, described the figures as "stark" and emphasised that recovery requires collective action. He noted that targeted initiatives on the River Trent and River Ouse have already seen salmon return, demonstrating that recovery is possible when key pressures are addressed.