Garry
Well done on your first salmon. Rest assured it is not a kelt, this year, like a couple of years ago a number of the grilse are rather thin. Fish over about 6lbs do not seem to be effected. A number of possible reasons have been suggested why they are a little thin, and why a number of salmon are very small this year, down to a couple of pounds. Global warming is often sited as the problem, but at the moment we simply do not have all the answers. However do not let this take any thing form a great experience.
And well done for putting it back, it is a great feeling watching them recover and swim away, a memory that will live with you for a long time. Now go get another.
dave