In the United Kingdom, recreational fishing for certain species of shellfish, including edible crabs, velvet crabs, lobsters, and whelks, requires a permit in specific regions. The rules and regulations governing these permits vary depending on the location and the type of shellfish being targeted.
Recreational Shellfish Permits in England
In England, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) and local Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs) are responsible for managing recreational shellfish fishing. The requirements for obtaining a permit differ depending on the region and the type of shellfish being targeted.
For example, the North Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (NEIFCA) covers the coastline from the River Tyne to the Scottish border. In this region, anyone aged 16 and over who wants to catch edible crabs, velvet crabs, lobsters, or whelks from the shore, a boat, or while diving needs a Limited Shellfish Permit. This permit allows the holder to take up to 2 lobsters, 10 crabs, and 30 whelks per day.
Similarly, the Cornwall Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (CIFCA) requires recreational fishers to obtain a free permit to catch lobsters, crawfish, and crabs in their district.
Commercial Fishing Licenses in the UK
For commercial fishing vessels, the UK government issues various types of fishing licenses depending on the size of the vessel, the species being targeted, and the fishing area. These licenses are managed by the MMO and the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The UK has several categories of fishing licenses, including Category A for vessels over 10 meters, Category B for vessels fishing a restricted range of quota stocks, and Category C for vessels fishing a range of miscellaneous stocks. There are also specific licenses for certain fisheries, such as the Thames and Blackwater herring fishery, the blue whiting fishery, and the albacore tuna fishery.
In addition to these licenses, commercial vessels may also require permits for specific types of fishing gear or target species. For example, vessels fishing for crabs in ICES Area VII (which includes the English Channel and parts of the Celtic Sea) may need a Western Waters crab permit.
Regulations and Conservation Measures
Regardless of whether a person is fishing recreationally or commercially, there are various regulations and conservation measures in place to protect shellfish stocks and the marine environment. These measures include minimum conservation reference sizes (MCRS), which ensure that animals are not caught before they have had a chance to breed, and restrictions on the type and amount of fishing gear that can be used.
For example, in the NEIFCA district, it is prohibited to land any female lobster or edible crab bearing eggs. If such an animal is caught, it must be returned to the sea immediately. There are also restrictions on the number and size of pots that can be used, and escape gaps must be fitted to all pots to allow undersized animals to escape.
Similar regulations and conservation measures are in place in other regions of the UK, and it is important for both recreational and commercial fishers to familiarize themselves with the specific rules that apply in their area.
Enforcement and Penalties
Failure to comply with the regulations governing recreational and commercial shellfish fishing can result in penalties, including fines and the suspension or revocation of fishing licenses or permits.
In England, the MMO and IFCAs have the authority to enforce fishing regulations and can issue fixed penalty notices or prosecute offenders through the courts. Penalties can be severe, with fines of up to £50,000 for certain offenses.
It is therefore essential for anyone engaged in shellfish fishing, whether recreationally or commercially, to ensure that they are fully aware of and comply with all relevant regulations and conservation measures.