Home / Environment / Eel Fishery Faces 3-Year Ban Amid Stock Crisis
Eel Fishery Faces 3-Year Ban Amid Stock Crisis
4 Jun
Summary
- Yellow eel fishery to close for three years starting in 2026.
- New regulations include a 90cm maximum landing size.
- Pollution, not over-fishing, cited as main threat to eels.
Starting with the 2026 season, the Lough Neagh yellow eel fishery will be closed for three years in an effort to ensure the long-term recovery of eel stocks. Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir announced these measures, acknowledging the industry's importance.
Further regulations include a maximum landing size of 90 centimeters for eels and a total allowable catch of 25 tonnes for the silver eel fishery. These steps are informed by scientific advice from ICES and AFBI, aiming to protect the critically endangered European eel.
Fishermen, however, voiced concerns about the economic and cultural impact. Gary McErlain highlighted the long history of eel fishing on the lough and expressed worries about financial support lagging behind the announced measures. He also contended that pollution, rather than over-fishing, poses the greatest threat to the eel population.
