The salmon population along the coasts is dwindling, making the recently concluded season the worst in many years, says Mr Henry Stevenson, a salmon trade expert with 30 years of experience. Particularly concerning are the declines in Northern Ireland, while Southern Ireland, Shannon, and Limerick districts see slightly better results. The scarcity of salmon has driven up prices in the market, with frozen salmon becoming a difficult sell. Interestingly, the decline in salmon numbers coincides with an increase in demand from the middle class, who are now purchasing the fish once considered a luxury only available to the wealthy.
Dundee Evening Telegraph – Thursday 05 September 1901
Image: Foynes Co. Limerick, 1900s