Derbyshire brook records historic first salmon.
18th March, 2026, Environmental charity, Trent Rivers Trust, records historic first as juvenile Atlantic salmon is found in Derbyshire brook for the first time.
The catch recorded in the Bottle Brook, near Little Eaton, provides valuable insight into the movement of the species, strengthening conservationists’ calls for their wider recovery in the Derwent catchment. With no previous records on the Bottle Brook, the fish survey reveals that Atlantic salmon may be more widespread in the River Derwent and tributaries than previously thought.
The news comes as UK populations of Atlantic salmon were first declared endangered in 2023, following a continual decline over decades. Reports on principal salmon rivers, which includes UK rivers that annually report on salmon stock numbers, reveal the species hit a record low in 2024.
Little is known about salmon numbers in the Derbyshire Derwent, a tributary of the Trent. Unlike some of the more well-known salmon rivers, the Derwent does not receive regular monitoring for this protected species.
Efforts that make it easier for migratory fish, like salmon, to reach their spawning grounds are ongoing throughout the River Trent and Derwent. The newly-installed fish pass at Colwick in Nottingham and restoration work on the River Ecclesbourne have already allowed fish to access historic spawning grounds. As the new record suggests juvenile salmon have already further spread than thought, more work to open up our watercourses will help the recovery of this threatened species.
Dr Scott McKenzie, Head of Rivers and Nature-based Solutions at Trent Rivers Trust, said:
It’s clear that Atlantic salmon in the UK are in crisis, facing a myriad of threats. Discovering records of fish where they may be recovering is an incredibly encouraging sign for the River Trent and Derwent, it stands as testimony to the ongoing conservation work in the rivers. This record also highlights why surveys and monitoring are so important for us. We need find out what species are where and what we can do to conserve them and improve their chances of survival and recovery. A record like this salmon is so important for organisations like us to build on. We can now work to improve the habitat in the Bottle Brook to increase the number of spots salmon can spawn and act as a kickstart for the wider recovery of many of our threatened freshwater species.
Ryan Taylor, Environment Agency, said:
It takes a collaborative effort to improve the numbers of salmon in our rivers. As well as working with partners like Trent Rivers Trust and the Wild Trout Trust to restore habitats and reduce physical barriers, we’re working with landowners and water companies to reduce water pollution in our rivers, and with anglers to report any captures.
It’s great to hear this work is having a positive impact on the distribution of salmon in the River Derwent catchment.
Tim Jacklin, Conservation Officer at Wild Trout Trust said:
This is a significant step in the recovery of migratory fish in the River Derwent and its tributaries and justifies the hard work in removing the many barriers they face. We are delighted to see the benefits for wildlife and the local community, and look forward to working with our partners on similar improvements in the future.
