Scott on Salmon

Summary of the Paper:

The paper explores Sir Walter Scott's passion for angling and his involvement in salmon fishing, particularly along the Tweed River. Mills delves into Scott's role as a country sportsman and sheriff, highlighting his interest in fishing, especially in his local area of Darnick. The paper includes anecdotes of Scott's fishing exploits and his use of various methods, including spearing salmon by torchlight (known as "burning the water"), which was considered a traditional but controversial practice.

Scott's affinity for fishing is portrayed in both his personal life and his literary works. He often participated in social fishing expeditions, and these experiences are mirrored in his novels, where he frequently referenced salmon fishing, poaching, and the laws surrounding them. Mills also discusses how Scott's personal involvement in poaching laws influenced his role as a sheriff, where he occasionally had to enforce fishing regulations.

Interesting Points:

1. Burning the Water: This method, involving the use of a torch to illuminate the water and spear salmon, was a popular but controversial practice. Scott’s enjoyment of it is detailed through various humorous anecdotes, emphasizing his enthusiasm for the sport.
2. Leistering: A technique of spearing salmon, which Scott enjoyed, often as part of social events. The paper humorously recounts one such outing with friends that resulted in a boat sinking.
3. Influence on Scott’s Writing: The author connects Scott’s fishing experiences with his novels, noting that Scott drew from his real-life fishing adventures in works like Guy Mannering, where salmon fishing is vividly described.
4. Social and Economic Context: The paper touches on the distribution of salmon among the local community, where catches were shared with farmers and others, a far cry from the commercial fishing practices of today.
5. Poaching and Legal Influence: Scott’s involvement with salmon poaching cases as a sheriff is explored, showing how his understanding of poaching laws and his personal experiences shaped his literary representations of law enforcement and justice.

The paper offers a fascinating look at how Scott's love of country sports, particularly salmon fishing, influenced his life and work, providing insight into both his character and his literature.