ANGLERS have called for action to preserve Scotland's salmon fishing industry after new figures revealed that the number of fish being caught has dwindled to its lowest level on record.

Fresh statistics from the Scottish Government show that last year 45,175 salmon were hooked from Scottish rivers and coastal waters, compared to 67,500 the year before and the five year average of 85,000.

The number of salmon brought ashore last year was at its lowest since 1952, and marine conservation groups say that measures must now be put in place to ensure that stocks survive at a viable level.

Marine Scotland Science's commentary, issued in conjunction with the Scottish Government catch statistics, states that salmon runs at at risk of being depopulated unless moves are made to keep help fish populations thrive.

It sates: "Spring salmon catch shows a general decline since records began.

"Although there is some indication that spring salmon catch has stabilised in recent years, it remains at a historically low level.

"Overall catch of salmon and grilse in later months showed a general increase up to 2010, after which it has fallen sharply".

The Salmon and Trout Association Scotland (S&TAS) are backing moves by the Scottish Government to introduce a 'kill licence' which would mean anglers having to release catch back into the wild.

Of the fish caught using rods, 37,139 (or 82 %) were released back into the water by anglers. 8,036 (18 %) were killed. However, this figure is dwarfed by the 17,778 killed by nets.

Hughie Campbell Adamson, Chairman of the (S&TAS) said: "Salmon runs are fickle and clearly conditions can impact on rod catches but it would be irresponsible not to take heed of the significant downturn in the last two years which is mirrored across the North Atlantic.

"The figures underline why Scotland needs to have a robust system in place to ensure that any exploitation is limited to those stocks which have a discernible surplus.

"In this context S&TA(S) supports the principle of a 'Kill Licence' system, as is currently being consulted on by Scottish Government".

The Marine Conservation Society's latest advice is that wild salmon taken in Scotland's coastal nets are amongst the "least sustainable fish to eat and should be avoided".

The Scottish Government launched its consultation on kill licences in February, and it is expected to conclude next month.

The kill license would apply to anglers and netters and it is hoped the new system would be in place for 2016.

Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Dr Aileen McLeod said:

"Today's publication of the 2014 salmon and sea trout fishery statistics, together with the accompanying stock status report, shows a decline in stocks in the last few years.

"We are conscious of the concerns around the long term health of fish stocks which is why we have brought forward statutory conservation measures over the last year and we are currently consulting on a proposed ban on the killing of wild salmon except under licence.

"We recognise that this has been a challenging year for rod fisheries, however it is good news that the proportion of fish returned to the water continues to rise.

"I would encourage all those interested in the future of our salmon stocks to share their views on how we might manage and conserve Scotland's salmon stocks by responding to our consultation by 30th April."