Latest of the Scottish prawners to arrive in Newlyn, the Claire Marie... 

and Faithful Star...

who knew. fish boxes, the inspiration for the computer game Tetris...

on a 'beamy' boat, the 'fins' on the hull are there to reduce the rolling motion of the in beam-on seas and the 'Kort' nozzle that surrounds the propellor, boosts the efficiency of the propellor blades in driving the boat through the water and saves fuel at the same time...

hake from the netter Silver Dawn...

along gorgeous tub gurnard...

and a brace of cod...

from sister-ship, Stelissa...

what neither boat didn't want to see were their fishrooms stacked high with boxes of dogs...

Roger would be happy with these...

time to clear the decks...

a good haul of haddock...

day boa landings, a fish auction nightmare - one or two top quality fish in each box...

the netter Ajax also landed a good shot of MSC hake...

some of the fleet between trips...

too ealry yet for good landings of delicious Dorys...

smoothounds, better known locally as...

a good da's work from one of yhe top inshore boats, tagged bass..

and plenty of mackerel...

the traditional way to keep shellfish alive when out of their seawater environment, covered in bladderwrack seaweed...

she's a tidy ship is Spanish Eyes III...

the package has landed - brand spanking new ironwork for the Old Quay restoration project!

 

is the UK considering making concessions on fishing rights to the EU?

 

Reports indicate that the UK is considering making concessions on fishing rights to secure a new defence pact with the European Union. Here's some idea of what's being reported:

The Potential Deal:

UK Access to EU Defence Fund: The primary driver for the UK is to gain access to the EU's €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) loan scheme. This fund supports the joint procurement of ammunition, air defences, and drones. UK defence firms like BAE Systems and Babcock were previously excluded from this fund.   Fishing Rights Concessions: In return for access to the defence fund, the UK government is reportedly considering a multi-year deal on fishing quotas in UK waters for EU fishermen. Quota Freeze: The proposed concession involves freezing the quotas that EU fishermen can catch in UK waters at the current level, which is around 75% of pre-Brexit levels. This means any further reduction in these quotas, which some in the UK fishing industry had hoped for, would be off the table for the time being. Long-Term Access: The deal would reportedly grant the EU a long-term agreement on access to UK fishing waters, providing more stability for European fishing fleets. Rationale and Reactions:

Economic Considerations: The UK defence industry's exports are significantly more valuable (around £14.5 billion) than fish sales (£1.7 billion). This disparity in economic value is a key factor in the potential trade-off.

UK Government Perspective: The government aims to balance economic strategy with political sensitivities, framing these concessions as necessary for broader economic and security benefits. EU Perspective: For some in the EU, securing continued access to UK fishing waters is a priority. They see a link between progress on a security and defence agreement and fisheries. Fishing Industry Concerns: The UK fishing industry is reportedly very unhappy with these potential concessions, viewing it as a "craven capitulation" and a "betrayal of Brexit." They argue that the industry is being used as a "pawn" and "sold down the river." There's also frustration that a significant portion of the current quota is taken by foreign-owned vessels with British flags.   Wider Context:

UK-EU Relations: This potential deal is part of a broader effort to reset the UK's relationship with the EU and ease trade barriers. Brexit Fisheries Agreement: The current post-Brexit deal allows EU vessels to fish in UK waters up to six miles from the shore, with this arrangement fixed for five years until June 2026, after which access is to be decided in annual negotiations.

Upcoming Summit: A UK-EU summit is planned for May 19, 2025, in London, where these discussions are expected to be formalized.   In summary, the UK government is reportedly considering offering long-term stability on fishing quotas for EU vessels in exchange for access to the EU's significant defence funding, a move that has sparked considerable anger within the UK fishing industry but is seen by some as a pragmatic decision given the broader economic and security benefits.

Sunny start to another week in busy Newlyn.

Heading for the gaps, Trevssa IV...

after crossing the 5˚32'28"W line...

the ship that belongs to one of the oldest businesses in the UK, Trinity House's THV Galatea...

not a bad start to the day...

with a market full of quality MSC hake from the Britannia IV...

spurdogs...

and big mackerel...

that's a lot of greater weaver fish for one landing...

Spring scallops...

and still the pollack come...

the eight-leggers have arrived again...

seiners like the Acionna land he very best...

quality trawl caught fish...

megrims, largely the preserve of the beam trawl fleet caught in any quantity...

looking out from the market...

scads are about...

at the western end of the market, there were also seine caught hake from the big Dutch seiner

Annalijdia, not the use of the shallow boxes just as the Spanish boats do to avoid the delicate fish being crushed by their own weight...

serious suckers...

good to see strong landings for the handliners continue...

now those are bollards...

yet another Spencer Carter winch, built to last and still going strong...

Spanish Eyes II, all set for the arrival of the MCA for her final inspection before being signed off to fish...

the prawners took a break over Easter...

basking in the sun...

the Boy Enzo has joined in the action...

time for the big fella to take fuel on the Monty of Ladram...

while the Enterprise is all set for Heltor's new HVO fuel...

time for the sardines boats to take a break...

as the St Georges heads for the market...

digging down deep to prepare for the foundations of the new Resource & Training Centre ..

- the land was reclaimed from the beach when the road was built to join Newlyn Town and Newlyn Village...

yet more seafront was lost when Keel Alley was filled in in the early 1980s... 

Image courtesy of Treeve and Picture Penzance

depriving tythe harbour of drying out berths for the punts.

Cornish MP Steps In to Chair Tuna Licensing Meeting

A public meeting, arranged by Fishing News and set for the morning of May 19th in Newlyn, will be chaired by St Ives MP Andrew George. George offered to mediate in an effort to find a solution agreeable to all stakeholders involved in the contentious issue of 2025 bluefin tuna licenses.

The core of the issue lies in the upcoming 2025 bluefin tuna season, scheduled to begin on July 1st. The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has yet to contact successful commercial sector applicants to confirm their licenses. Last year, 13 licenses were granted, each with a 3-tonne quota. This number has slightly increased to 15 licenses for 2025. However, the licensing process in 2024 left many of the 80 unsuccessful applicants feeling aggrieved. Adding further complexity, Defra has indicated a significant increase in "catch and release" licenses for 2025, sparking worries about potential mortality and its subsequent impact on UK quotas.

Andrew George stated, 

"The return of bluefin tuna is a success, though it presents obvious challenges. I look forward to hearing from expert speakers to ensure we get to the facts about all the risks and opportunities."

"Fisheries minister Daniel Zeichner has told me he is looking forward to hearing how it goes, and if we can draw any conclusions to inform Defra's plans for licence conditions for the 2025 bluefin tuna season, which starts on 1 July."   

George hopes that "our discussion will conclude with an agreeable balance between support for sustainable fishing, allowing the bluefin tuna population to continue to thrive, and effective marine conservation which – amongst many other things – has helped to create these fishing opportunities.”

Progress Beneath the Surface: Cornwall Fisheries Engagement Pilot Report Published

Cornwall Fisheries FMP update:

Following up on our previous insights from the Developing Cornwall’s Fisheries engagement pilot event held in St Ives last October, we're pleased to announce that the summary report from this crucial gathering has now been published and shared.

For those who attended the three-day pilot, you'll find a comprehensive overview of the discussions that took place. The report encapsulates the breadth of topics covered, from the intricate challenges surrounding the management of vital bass, crab, and lobster fisheries through Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs), to the exploration of more sustainable methods for demersal fishing. The event also fostered important conversations around negotiations, potential future funding avenues, and the key priorities for the fishing industry in Cornwall.

You can access the full report here or read it below:

Just as a reminder, the pilot event in October 2024 brought together a diverse group of stakeholders in St Ives. Commercial fishing industry representatives and government officials from Defra and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) joined forces with the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO), the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations (NFFO), and the UK Association of Fish Producer Organisations (UKAFPO). This collaborative workshop aimed to address pressing issues and collectively explore solutions for the sustainable management of fisheries in Cornish waters. It was a significant step in our ongoing commitment to co-design and deliver effective measures for the future of our fisheries, working hand-in-hand with those who have a direct stake.

The value of this pilot event lay in creating an open and honest space. It allowed everyone involved, from policy makers to those working tirelessly at sea, to voice their perspectives on what is currently working and, crucially, what isn't. Perhaps the most significant outcome was the fostering of face-to-face connections and the breaking down of any existing misconceptions between the industry and government bodies. Looking ahead, the organizers have established clear actions with defined timelines to ensure the momentum from this event continues.

So, what's next on the horizon? A follow-up meeting is scheduled for April 2025, where attendees will reconvene to review the progress made and gain a clear understanding of how the actions identified during the pilot are being implemented.

One of the key actions highlighted was the critical need to clarify the roles and responsibilities within FMP governance – essentially, how these vital management plans are managed and by whom. Keep an eye on Through the Gaps, as our next blog post will delve into this important aspect in more detail.

The publication of this report marks another important step forward in collaboratively shaping a sustainable future for Cornwall’s fisheries. We encourage you to read the report and stay tuned for further updates on the progress being made.

 

New trial awards quota to fishers delivering sustainability and growth

 

UK fishers demonstrating environmental, social, and economic benefits from quota use to be awarded additional quota.

UK fishers demonstrating how they will deliver environmental, social, and economic benefits will be awarded with additional quota this week. Following last year’s successful pilot, the 2025 Quota Application Mechanism trial has been expanded to include English non-sectoral over-10-metre vessels alongside producer organisations with English members. Around 8,658.8 tonnes of quota will be awarded to applicants who scored highest against the environmental, social, and economic criteria based on how they will use the additional allocation.

Measures to be rewarded include:

investments in improved fishing gear, reducing environmental impacts while enhancing selectivity to minimize unwanted catches;

acoustic deterrents to help protect vulnerable marine wildlife by preventing accidental entanglement in fishing gear;

employment of local crew, strengthening coastal communities by providing sustainable livelihoods and preserving traditional fishing heritage;

vessel upgrades focused on crew safety and welfare to ensure that fishing remains a viable career with improved working conditions.

Amongst other stocks, 535 tonnes of North Sea Cod, 1162 tonnes of North Sea Saithe, and 213 tonnes of Western Skates and Rays will be awarded to sectoral and non-sector fishers.

Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:

I’m delighted to see the expanded Quota Application Mechanism rewarding fishers who demonstrate clear commitments to sustainability. By allocating quota based on environmental, social, and economic criteria, we’re charting a new course for UK fisheries that balances conservation with economic prosperity. It’s a vital step towards building a sustainable and profitable fishing industry, as part of our Plan for Change.

Dale Rodmell, Chief Executive of Eastern England Fish Producers Organisation Ltd. said:

We appreciate the efforts made by the government to make a new approach to quota allocation work. It recognises the efforts we are making to realise environmental, social and economic benefits from under-utilised and additional quota resulting from the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

Paul Stone, Director of Stone Marine Services (South West) Ltd, said:

It’s really something to help diversify and enables us to free up more options and rest areas which are tight for quota, helping us to fish sustainably. It’s been life-changing to the company; it makes life easier for the crew and the fish quality is better. It’s nice to be recognised. As a small private company, it means a heck of a lot.

Shaun Hayter, Director of Bubba Shrimp Ltd, said:

Being awarded this quota will make a massive difference. It will keep us fishing all year and the crew busy. It gives other grounds a rest and makes everything financially viable. I’ve been really looking forward to this year and so has the crew. It’s a massive opportunity and seems like a step in the right direction.

The quota has been drawn from England’s additional quota allocation and anticipated underutilised non-sectoral quota. This trial represents a significant shift from standard quota allocation methods, introducing a criteria-based approach that aims to enhance sustainable fisheries management by considering broader environmental outcomes alongside the social and economic interests of fishing communities.

Lessons from this trial will shape how fishing quotas are allocated in the future, helping protect fish stocks and support fishing communities for the long-term.

Further information

The breakdown of tonnages to be awarded as a part of the 2025 Quota Application Mechanism is as follows:

• 535.2 tonnes of North Sea Cod (165.5T of this is to the non-sector)
• 1166.7 tonnes of North Sea Saithe (24.7T of this is to the non-sector)
• 2830 tonnes of North Sea Herring (20T of this is to the non-sector)
• 212.9 tonnes of Western Skates and Rays (75T of this is to the non-sector)
• 3914 tonnes of Western Mackerel (4T of this is to the non-sector)

This is subject to the applicants accepting the Quota.

Eastern England Fish Producers Organisation was awarded:

• 369.7T of Cod North Sea
• 1141.7T of Saithe North Sea
• 155T of Herring North Sea
• 137.9T of Skates & Rays Western
• 1340T of Mackerel Western

Humberside Fish Producers’ Organisation was awarded:

• 2655T of Herring North Sea
• 2570T of Mackerel Western

As part of the conditions for receiving the quota, applicants have committed to delivering a range of benefits including:

Environmental performance

Advanced monitoring technologies like remote electronic monitoring provide real-time data on fishing activities, supporting sustainable management of marine resources.

Investments in improved fishing gear, reducing environmental impacts while enhancing selectivity to minimize unwanted catches.

Participation in scientific studies to contribute vital information that strengthens our understanding of marine ecosystems and stock health.

Fuel-saving techniques to not only reduce operational costs but also lower carbon emissions.

Acoustic deterrents to help protect vulnerable marine wildlife by preventing accidental entanglement in fishing gear.

Social contribution

Employment of local crew, strengthening coastal communities by providing sustainable livelihoods and preserving traditional fishing heritage.

Vessel upgrades focused on crew safety and welfare ensure that fishing remains a viable career with improved working conditions.

Engagement with local apprenticeship schemes to create pathways for young people to enter the industry, securing its future.

Participation in careers fairs to raise awareness about opportunities in the fishing sector, attracting diverse talent to the industry.

Economic benefits

Landings into UK ports stimulate local economies through direct employment and supporting additional dockside businesses.

Supply to local and domestic processors strengthens our food security while adding value to catches within the UK economy.

Use of local business services creates multiplier effects, where fishing activity supports a broader network of maritime and coastal enterprises.