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CASTAG, the Caithness & Sutherland Trout Angling Group was formed in 1998 with the intention of better promoting and marketing brown trout angling in the northern highlands of Scotland. From the beginning the Group has been acutely aware of the requirement to assist in the conservation of the unique brown trout resource present in Caithness and Sutherland. With this in mind, CASTAG helped develop a study of the golden trout of north west Sutherland in collaboration with Dr Andy Walker, Freshwater Laboratory, Pitlochry.

The strain of trout appears unique in the northern Highlands and the Group felt that by clearly showing the existence of fragile trout populations, better steps could be taken to conserve brown trout in the future. CASTAG recognises maintaining biodiversity as an essential prerequisite in all dealings with localised flora and fauna.

While the original objective of the project was to continue and expand a genetic study of the distinctive trout, once investigative work was underway it quickly became clear these beautiful trout were almost on the verge of extinction. CASTAG therefore viewed it essential to try and initiate a rescue programme and create a living gene bank as described by Dr Walker. This part of the project is still ongoing.

CASTAG greatly appreciates the foresight of the projects sponsors; Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Fishmongers Company, Salmon & Trout Association Scotland and the Wild Trout Society. Without their assistance this vital rescue mission could never have been attempted.


Lesley Crawford
Honorary Secretary
CASTAG


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