Fishing boats at Anstruther Harbour, Scotland.
Photo: Adobe Stock.
The Scottish Government has published several draft Fisheries Management Plans to support the sustainability of demersal fish stocks. In doing so, it has worked in collaboration with the fishing sector and in partnership with the other UK administrations.
During 2024, demersal fish accounted for 25% of the total value of fish landed by Scottish vessels, with around 157 boats mainly engaged in fishing these species, the Government has confirmed.
The plans, which cover eleven different demersal fish stocks, address issues such as tackling unnecessary waste and illegal discarding, minimizing the impact of fisheries on the marine environment, and supporting businesses so they can continue to contribute to their communities.
"These draft Fisheries Management Plans mark a significant step forward in delivering our Fisheries Management Strategy whilst enhancing transparency, supporting innovation, and mitigating the effects of climate change. I encourage everyone with an interest in Scotland's marine environment to engage with this consultation and help shape the future of our fisheries," said Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Mairi Gougeon.
The Scottish Government has encouraged the fishing industry, environmental organisations, and all those with an interest in fishing to take part in the consultation, which will remain open until 11 March 2026.
Regarding this, the Welsh Government Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, noted: "I welcome the launch of this joint consultation, which is another positive step forward in the delivery of our ambitious plans across the UK to publish 43 Fisheries Management Plans."
Finally, Northern Ireland's Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, added: "The management of these stocks is of importance to the Northern Ireland fishing fleet, and I welcome the opportunity for people to provide feedback on the future sustainable management of these fisheries."
