Reintroduction of trout in the headwaters of Rickleån

Risån and Sikån now get new life in the form of small trout

Objective

Re-establishment of a viable brown trout population in the headwaters of the Rickleån river—Risån and Sikån. In the long term, this may benefit both the river's ecology and local recreational fishing.

The background

Large parts of our watercourses and the natural habitat of brown trout have been negatively impacted by the activities of previous generations. Dams, sawmills, watermills, and timber floating have all contributed to a decline in biodiversity.

With the aim of bringing back the brown trout and restoring a wilder, more vibrant natural environment, we have carried out extensive river restoration in the Risån and Sikån streams.

Despite several years of dedicated work, no trout have yet been observed in the streams, as the populations have been so severely affected that hardly any individuals remain.

Now, we have taken the next step. At carefully selected sites, we have begun releasing trout fry, with the hope that they will eventually establish self-sustaining populations.

Implementation

In June 2024, the first year-old trout fry were released as part of the project, and in 2025, approximately 126,000 newly hatched fry were stocked. We hope these will find a new home in the Risån and Sikån streams and their tributaries.

Funding: Rewilding Europe & Skellefteå Municipality