Statutory guidance

Variation issued: Tuesday 26 March 2024

Updated 23 December 2024

1. The variation effective from 00:01hrs Tuesday 26 March 2024 is as follows:  

1.1 Sandeel Closure To All Vessels In Waters Of ICES Area 4

  • Affecting all Over 10m and 10m & Under licence categories – A (11), A (Islands) (12), A (Pelagic) (17), B (31), C (41), A (10m & Under) (91), A (10m & Under Limited) (94) & A (10m & Under [PO]).

1.2 In Over 10m Schedules:

10.4 - From 26 March 2024 the fishing of sandeel within English waters of ICES Area 4 (North Sea) is prohibited by all vessels.

1.3 In 10m & Under Schedules:

5.7 - From 26 March 2024 the fishing of sandeel within English waters of ICES Area 4 (North Sea) is prohibited by all vessels.

It is your responsibility to check variations before going to sea as they can be changed at any time.          

If you have any queries, please contact the Fisheries Management Team.