The 2027 fishing limits agreed by EU ministers yesterday provide a more positive outlook for several Baltic fisheries. The agreement recognises positive developments in several key stocks, particularly in small pelagic stocks while maintaining by-catch limits for cod.
The Council agreed to increase catch limits for sprat by 44%, central Baltic herring by 71% and Bothnian herring by 12%. These increases reflect improving stock prospects and offer welcome opportunities for fishing fleets.
For cod, the Council maintained by-catch-only limits, allowing the stocks to continue recovering while providing some relief to fishing companies. It also maintained the prohibition on recreational cod fishing throughout the Baltic Sea.
According to Europêche, the recovery of key stocks, including central Baltic herring and sprat, challenges alarmist claims that portray the Baltic Sea as being in collapse. Ahead of the 2027 decision, the sector urged the Commission to follow ICES advice and reject extreme precautionary measures based on perceptions or unsubstantiated calls rather than scientific evidence.
The EU fishing sector has shown responsibility and resilience, implementing substantial reductions and restrictions in recent years to support stock recovery. The positive developments suggest these efforts are beginning to bear fruit. Europêche stresses that future decisions should continue to follow the best available scientific advice while supporting sustainable fisheries and the viability of Baltic fishing communities.
Europêche notes in this regard that the Baltic Sea requires action beyond fisheries management. The EU must tackle all major environmental pressures, including nutrient pollution, chemical contaminants, climate change and predator impacts, through a comprehensive, science-based approach that fully involves the fishing sector in shaping solutions.
Europêche particularly welcomes the improvements in the final agreement compared with the Commission’s initial proposal. The Association commends the Danish BALTFISH Presidency for helping secure a balanced agreement in record time. The outcome demonstrates the value of regional cooperation.
Fishing opportunities in the Baltic Sea for 2027 – table
ENDS
Press contact:
Daniel Voces, Managing Director of Europêche +32 489 26 81 07 daniel.voces@europeche.org
