Would a split season , say Feb to May then break till September, but extend to the 31st of October ever be considered?
I think it mostly weighs on what the fish are doing over the next few seasons. If overall numbers drop, then no chance, best you can hope for is not getting further restrictions or even a ban. If the numbers stay constant or somehow improve, but they consistently arrive later in the season and Avon salmon fishing is to be preserved, then I think it may be considered. Irrespective, June is the best month of the season most years so it should not be taken off in any scenario. February on the other hand doesn't see a single fresh salmon caught most years.
Yes, all studies and experiments show that coloured fish are better adapted to fresh water and handle C&R pressure a lot better than when they first enter the system. However anglers' preference for silver salmon, inherited from times when culinary value came first, is still a factor.
Lastly think of the riparian owners. Some estates are very traditional and don't think much of fishing past mid June either way. Most, revolve around and get most their income from shooting which I think starts on the 1st of Sep with partridge. Having anglers on the banks would be nuisance at best or lose money at worst. The Royalty is the only one which I think would support any form of season extension but they would be blocked by the others.
I personally enjoy their autumn colours and would like to annoy a 30lb amber crock on the Avon knowing that, as opposed to a silver fish caught in the full summer sun, it's 'tough as an old boot' as Northeners say. However all things considered, I would say no chance to even start a meaningful conversation in the near future.
