MEPs call for formal role for recreational fisheries in EU policy, highlighting economic, social, and environmental contribution
The European Parliament’s Forum on Recreational Fisheries and Aquatic Environment has called for the formal integration of the recreational fishing sector into the EU’s fisheries policy framework, including the upcoming Ocean’s Pact.
The call came during a high-level event on 8 April in Brussels, attended by five MEPs from across the political spectrum and senior officials from the European Commission.
MEP André Rodrigues, who chaired the event, described Europe’s angling community as “true guardians of our aquatic environment” and said the sector’s experience and knowledge must be reflected in future fisheries policy.
Sector Currently Excluded from Advisory and Decision-Making Structures
Despite supporting 100,000 jobs and generating €10.5 billion in annual economic activity, marine recreational fishing is not formally recognised as a distinct sector under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), unlike aquaculture or commercial fishing.
MEP Niclas Herbst, a member of the PECH Committee, criticised the absence of recreational fishing in impact assessments and data collection, calling it “unfair for the thousands of businesses that rely on anglers’ rights”.
“This sector is not considered at all when taking management decisions,” Herbst said.
Speakers at the event stressed that as a selective and low-impact activity, recreational fishing can contribute to the CFP’s sustainability objectives while also diversifying incomes in coastal communities.
Commission Urged to Include Sector in Ocean’s Pact Vision
The event took place as the European Commission continues its evaluation of the CFP and begins shaping the new European Ocean’s Pact — a long-term framework for ocean governance.
Mr Stylianos Mitolidis, Director at the Commission responsible for the CFP evaluation, was in attendance and acknowledged the contributions made during the session.
The forum highlighted examples from countries such as the UK, where recreational fisheries are more formally included in national marine strategies. Panellists argued that adopting a similar approach at EU level would lead to more inclusive and effective governance.
Source: Press Release