Plans to reel in more protection for sea bass

Tuesday 18 August 2015

Anglers will only be allowed to catch three sea bass a day if the States follow the EU and agree new measures to tackle stock shortages.

The three-fish limit is one of a number of new rules that will affect everyone catching bass and are designed to protect the species from over-fishing.

The Assistant Minister for Economic Development Deputy Steve Luce said: “This is an important stock and it is vital the right package of measures is put in place to protect it. I’m fully aware of how passionate fishermen are about this iconic species and I hope the mix of measures that will impact on all those catching bass will show that it is important we all work together to ensure its sustainability.”

The new proposals also include a ban on winter pelagic trawling, monthly limits on commercial vessels, an increase in minimum size to 42cm, a maximum limit of 50 hooks and 100m of net set on the beach per person.

There is already protection in place for local scallops with divers being limited to how many they can take each day but at the moment there are no plans to introduce any changes to the size of nets.

Deputy Luce said: “A change in the minimum net size is still on the table and will be brought in, should it be required. We must look at the evidence about the stock and act accordingly.”  

The Minister wants to hear from anyone who will be affected by the proposed measures especially those who have fished commercially from the shore.

Marine Resources’ Assistant Director Greg Morel said: “We would like to know more about the impact of these measures on people who’ve sold fish caught from the beach. These measures are for stock protection but we must take into consideration those who have legitimately fished from the shore.”   

There are also plans to stop people driving onto the beaches to move fishing gear although this rule wouldn't apply to those launching and recovering boats.

Deputy Luce said: “Parts of our coast are recognised as being internationally important and can be sensitive to disturbance. This change will mean that only those with a permit will be able to drive on the beach for the transport of fishing gear.”