The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) says it is continuing its inshore fisheries patrol programme with a number of patrols in the north-west. The patrol programme is a key part of conservation measures to help protect Ireland’s valuable shellfish and crustacean fisheries, including crab, lobster, crayfish, whelk and razor clams, it says.
The SFPA’s campaign will focus on non-compliant commercial fishing vessels along the Irish coast, it says. The SFPA will also, where appropriate, monitor compliance by members of the public to ensure their lobster and crab fishing activities are within limits, it says.
Regulations are in place regarding the minimum size that can be caught to ensure that shellfish and crustacean species, such as lobster and crab, can reach maturity and reproduce, safeguarding the future of their stocks.
The SPFA deploys its 7.5 Metre Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) with the capacity to winch up and inspect lobster pots and keeps (used to hold live crustaceans prior to sale), enabling detailed inspections.
The inshore monitoring programme also includes vehicle patrols of small local ports and landing places so that SFPA officers can identify and monitor unlicensed and unregistered vessels that may be deployed during the summer months.
“It is important for recreational fishers to also understand their obligation to adhere to the regulations which are in place to protect the marine ecosystem. Whilst certain activities are allowed without a commercial license, there are limits on the quantities and use of fish. All such fish must comply with the general conservation requirements applicable to both commercial and recreational fishing,” it says.
For more information, see Fisheries Information Notice 05/2025 - Non-Commercial Pot Fishing in Ireland.
The SFPA advises that anyone found non-compliant with sea fisheries or seafood safety regulations can expect to face prosecution.
