The North Sea Advisory Council (NSAC) has recommended an amendment to the technical measures for squid fishing to the Scheveningen Group
In response to a request for advice from the Swedish Presidency of the Scheveningen Group, the North Sea Advisory Council (NSAC) has provided guidance on proposed amendments to technical measures governing the directed fishing for squid.
The NSAC’s recommendations aim to enhance fishing practices while aligning with conservation objectives outlined in Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.
The draft joint recommendation seeks to modify the derogation granted in Annex V for squid fishing in the North Sea. Currently, vessels are permitted to use mesh sizes as small as 40mm when targeting squid, potentially leading to excessive by-catches of other species. To address this issue, the Scheveningen Group proposes increasing the minimum mesh size to 80mm in Union waters in ICES area 4 and 90mm in ICES subdivision 3a.
The NSAC’s advice supports this proposal, consistent with previous recommendations advocating for a minimum mesh size of 80mm in the directed fishery for squid. Additionally, Member States are encouraged to maintain gear type specifications and ensure parity with other regions where targeted squid fisheries exist.
The proposed amendment aligns with Regulation (EU) 2019/1241’s objectives, which include optimising exploitation patterns to protect juvenile and spawning marine resources and reducing catches below minimum conservation reference sizes.
In concluding its advice, the NSAC expresses gratitude to the Swedish administration for the opportunity to provide input on the draft amendment. The council remains open to further dialogue on this important subject, emphasising its commitment to sustainable fisheries management.