A gripping and balanced portrait of a deeply divisive battle, where Sea Shepherd activists and aristocratic river owners confront traditional Scottish fishermen. At the heart of the conflict is the vanishing wild salmon, raising urgent questions about conservation, class, and the right to nature.
“Gripping tale of seals, salmon and saboteurs.”
The Guardian
“Subtly probes the murky role class plays in defining how a country presents itself to the world”
The Scotsman
“Enthralling, no-punches-pulled doc”
Time Out, London
Production & Broadcasters
Of Fish and Foe was produced by Trufflepig Films (Andy Heathcote & Heike Bachelier) for BBC Scotland, with support from Creative Scotland.
Filming the Final Season
The film was shot during the final fishing season for Scotland’s traditional coastal salmon fishermen — families who had fished these waters for generations.
Political & Environmental Shift
Shortly after filming, the EU banned salmon fishing at sea, marking a significant political and environmental shift. The film captures the emotional and cultural loss experienced by those whose livelihoods had been shaped by the tides.
Balancing Perspectives
Although the film portrays opposing sides, the filmmakers ensured that all parties were represented fairly, allowing the audience to form their own opinions.
Festivals & International Premiere
Of Fish and Foe premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was subsequently showcased at numerous prestigious international festivals, receiving wide critical acclaim.