The new management measures relate to the Channel demersal non-quota species Fisheries Management Plan (FMP), Southern North Sea and Eastern Channel mixed flatfish FMP, Crab and lobster FMP, and the Bass FMP.
In summary, the amended regulations are:
- Vessels using flyseining gear within the English zone of ICES areas 7d and 7e must use a minimum mesh size of 100 mm.
- Vessels using flyseining gear that have an engine power greater than 221 kw are not permitted to fish within 12 nm of the English coast within ICES areas 7d and 7e.
- Bass catch limits will be managed through variations in fishing vessel licenses. The MMO is preparing the reissue of bass authorization letters amending references to legislation. There will be no immediate changes to landings limits, as these will apply for the rest of 2024. We await the outcomes of the UK/EU annual negotiations for the 2025 fishing year.
- Minimum conservation reference sizes (MCRS) are being introduced for lemon sole (25 cm), turbot (30 cm), and brill (30 cm) in English waters of the Channel Sea within ICES areas 7d and 7e.
- The MCRS for crawfish has increased from 95mm to 110mm and is applicable in all English waters.
