UK-EU agreement on 2026 TACs delivers mixed results
UK-EU 2026 TACs: mixed results for UK fishing industry
Summary of outcomes
UK and EU negotiators have agreed provisional total allowable catches (TACs) for shared stocks in 2026, producing a mix of gains and losses for UK fisheries stakeholders.
Winners and losses
The agreement delivers notable wins for the UK fleet: increased opportunities for pollack and bass, a commercially viable TAC for Irish Sea herring, removal of the 100mm maximum landing size for spurdog and added geographical flexibility for sole in the Celtic Sea (area VII). North Sea Nephrops receives a 40% TAC increase.
At the same time, scientific advice prompted steep reductions for many stocks. ICES recommended large cuts for Celtic Sea and Channel saithe (up to 91%), Irish Sea plaice (59%), Irish Sea haddock (30%), North Sea lemon sole (24%) and dab (30%), with further declines advised for ling and Rockall haddock. Bycatch TACs will apply where zero-catch advice exists for several cod, haddock and whiting stocks.
Technical measures and industry reaction
New technical measures will be introduced alongside TACs: larger mesh sizes for some vessels fishing in the Celtic Sea and Channel and new selectivity devices for the Nephrops fishery in the Irish Sea. NFFO chief executive Mike Cohen described a mix of positive and worrying outcomes, warning that embedding technical measures in annual TAC negotiations risks undermining regulatory autonomy and may pre-empt Fisheries Management Plans. He also criticised the agreement for not sufficiently recognising climate-driven shifts in southern fisheries.
Economic impact and next steps
The bilateral deal secures about 150,000 tonnes of UK opportunities, valued at roughly £430m on historic landing prices, plus continued access to non-quota stocks worth around £25m in 2024. Combined with the earlier trilateral agreement with Norway, the arrangements provide access to more than 520,000t for 2026, with an estimated value of £830m. Final overall TACs were due to be confirmed at the EU Fisheries Council on 11–12 December.