EU fisheries ministers agreed on 2026 catch limits after two days of intensive negotiations. The Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers approved fishing quotas and effort rules, some extending to 2028. The deal governs key commercial stocks across the Atlantic, North Sea, Mediterranean, and Black Sea, giving the fishing sector more certainty for planning and operations.
Fishing effort combines vessel size, engine power, and fishing days at sea. After extensive discussions, all 27 Member States reached a compromise that respects scientific advice and supports economic stability for fishermen. Danish fisheries minister Jacob Jensen said the agreement ensures predictability for 2026 and fosters a sustainable future for the sector.
Northern Waters See Mixed Quota Adjustments
In the Atlantic and North Sea, the EU manages 24 total allowable catches independently. Quotas rose for some species, reflecting stock recovery. Megrim quotas increased by 12 percent in waters south of the Bay of Biscay. Norway lobster quotas jumped 54 percent in the same area.
Other northern stocks faced reductions. Standard sole quotas dropped 45 percent in the Kattegat and Baltic. Horse mackerel limits fell 5 percent in Portuguese waters. Pollack quotas declined 13 percent, and monkfish dropped 1 percent. Ministers set provisional mackerel quotas for the first half of the year, reducing them by 70 percent while awaiting outcomes of ongoing coastal state talks.
Southern Seas Maintain Steady Fishing Limits
In the Western Mediterranean, authorities kept trawler effort at 2025 levels. Limits for blue and red shrimp remained unchanged to avoid extra pressure on fragile populations. In the Black Sea, managers slightly reduced turbot quotas compared with last year, reflecting a cautious approach to protect stocks and ensure long-term sustainability.
