Scientists Warn Northeast Atlantic Mackerel Stocks Face Collapse Without Catch Cuts

2 October 2026
Edited By: Ed Freeman

Northeast Atlantic mackerel stocks remain under severe pressure despite a slight biological recovery, with scientists calling for an 11% reduction in catch levels to prevent further depletion.

(Image credit: Blue Marine Foundation)

“The stock has declined by 72% since 2016 and is still below the level required by international treaties and UK domestic law,” said Jonny Hughes, fisheries policy lead at the Blue Marine Foundation.

“The fact the stock has avoided a further decline is good, but it highlights the uncomfortable reality that governments came dangerously close to repeating the mistakes that have driven other fish stocks into collapse,” Hughes added.

The full article was published in Oceanographic and can be read here.