UK secures ~£840m fishing opportunities for 2026
UK secures £840m fishing opportunities for 2026
Summary
The UK government announced on 12 December 2025 agreements with the EU, Norway and other coastal states that secure approximately £840m of fishing opportunities for the 2026 season. Deals cover access to more than 80 shared stocks and total quotas exceeding 520,000 tonnes. The UK–EU bilateral element alone allocates about 150,000 tonnes valued at £430m; multilateral consultations raise the total to the £840m estimate. Bluefin tuna quota rises from 63t to 231t.
North Sea and whitefish
Key North Sea whitefish (cod, haddock, saithe) remain central. Commercial access spans depths typically between 30–150m where bottom temperatures range from around 6–12°C depending on season. Landing ports including Grimsby, Lowestoft and Peterhead will see allocations that aim to balance economic value with scientific advice on stock health.
Inshore and recreational anglers
Agreements also secure inshore access and non-quota rights in EU waters, benefitting shore anglers for species such as sea bass, mackerel and cod. Inshore fishing often occurs in 5–30m depths with sea temperatures of 10–16°C in much of the English Channel and southern North Sea. Ports like Whitby, Newhaven and Poole remain practical bases for day trips.
Practical advice
Recreational anglers should match tackle to target: surf rods and 12ft beachcasting outfits with 3–6oz leads for shore cod, light spinning or boat rods with 10–20lb braid and 30–60lb fluorocarbon leader for wreck marks, and peeler crab, lugworm or sandeel baits. Freshwater anglers on Hampshire Avon or Test should fish chalk-stream runs at 8–15°C using dry flies and nymphs. Wear breathable chest waders and check local byelaws before fishing shared stocks.
Recommended: breathable chest waders