The European Commission has proposed new fishing quotas for the Baltic Sea in 2025, focusing on protecting vulnerable fish stocks. Despite previous efforts, the recovery of certain species, particularly cod, has not been successful, leading to stricter regulations on accidental bycatch.
Stricter Regulations on Cod and Herring
The Commission suggests a significant reduction in the allowable bycatch of cod, proposing a 73% cut for the western Baltic and 68% for the eastern Baltic. Additionally, it calls for a 50% increase in the bycatch limits for herring in the western Baltic, where populations remain critically low. Exceptions for coastal fishing are to be limited to unavoidable herring bycatch only.
The proposal also includes substantial restrictions on sprat fishing due to a sharp decline in population caused by low reproduction rates. The Commission aims to prevent the stock from falling below a healthy level. Regarding salmon, the situation is mixed; with varying stock health, the EU recommends adjusting the ban and exceptions accordingly.