A REWARD of up to £1000 is being offered for information on poachers targetting the river Conwy.
Environment Agency Wales is calling or people to contact Crimestoppers anonymously with information on individuals taking part in poaching on the river.
Jason Westerberg-Liptrot, environmental crime team leader for Environment Agency Wales, said that salmon and sewin needed extra protection during the spawning season on the river.
"This is a very important time of the year for migratory fish. They have to be left undisturbed to spawn,” she said.
"If they are taken before spawning a whole generation can be wiped out, devastating the local population for years.
"Salmon and sewin are not only an important part of our rivers, they are a vital part of our economy. Fishing brings in more than £150 million into the Welsh economy, especially in rural areas, so ensuring their survival is vital."
The Environment Agency are hoping people will report anybody fishing on the river, using illegal methods such as nets, gaffs or lamps, or acting suspiciously on the riverbank.
The Conwy Valley Fisheries and Conservation Association echoed calls to protect the fish.
"Most salmon poachers do it purely for quick beer money and a bragging opportunity.
"They have no regard for the river and its fish stocks or for the legitimate anglers who pay for their rod licence and obey the rules.
"Poachers never give anything back to the river."