April 2026 Pollack Catch Limit Review
April 2026 Catch Limit Review — Pollack Area 7 implications
Overview
The Marine Management Organisation published a closed consultation on 17 March 2026 reviewing pollack catch limits in ICES Area 7 affecting England’s non-sector pools. Quota allocations were set late March with proposed variations to take effect on 1 April 2026. The review signals potential increases in pollack allocation for inshore fleets while imposing tighter monthly cod bycatch caps (0.3 tonnes monthly for under-10m vessels and 0.1 tonnes monthly for over-10m non-sector craft). Guidance emphasises incentives for low-impact gear consistent with Fisheries Act objectives.
What anglers should expect
Shore anglers and small-boat operators from Plymouth and the Lizard east along Dorset’s Portland Bill, Isle of Wight and Pembrokeshire can expect modestly expanded pollack opportunity but must manage cod bycatch carefully. April sea surface temperatures typically range 8–11°C; pollack move into kelp, reefs and wrecks from 5–30m depth as they become more active in spring.
Practical tactics
Use light coastal rods with braid 10–20lb and stout fluorocarbon traces of 40–80lb. Fish headlands such as Rame Head, Kimmeridge, St David’s Head or Portland Bill at dawn with mackerel strips or sandeel on single-hook traces. Cast 30–60g metal jigs or 90–120mm soft plastics to reach fish holding at 10–25m; from a skiff, handline over kelp and wrecks in 15–40m. Employ circle hooks, larger hook sizes and rapid-release handling to reduce cod retention under the new monthly limits. Monitor local quota notices and co-ordinate with harbour managers for any quota-trading opportunities to remain compliant and productive.
Recommended: metal casting jigs