Each year we produce Commercial Fisheries Advisories in line with the latest UK and EU law. These provide rapid access to the current legislative status of sharks, skates and rays in UK, EU and international waters. They are designed to assist the commercial fishing industry as well as fisheries management and enforcement agencies.
Based on user feedback, our 2023 Commercial Fisheries Advisories have been redesigned to be primarily viewed or downloaded onto mobile phones and other digital devices. They are also now regionally focused and even easier to quickly understand.
Our Commercial Fisheries Advisories can be viewed and downloaded below, along with best practice guides for handling and reporting sharks, skates and rays . You can also download our Shark, Skate and Ray ID Guides.
Recognising the UK’s status as an independent coastal state, for each region we have produced two Commercial Fisheries Advisories that reflect the relevant legislation for both UK and EU vessels. As TACs and quotas are met or altered, and legislation updated, some advisories may be subject to change. We will endeavour to keep them up to date. Contact the relevant fishery authority for definitive guidance.
Western Region UK Western Region EU
Southern Region UK Southern Region EU
Northwest Region UK Northwest Region EU
North Sea Region UK North Sea Region EU
To follow soon when development complete:
Baltic EU
Mediterranean EU
Additional Information:
► Recreational anglers should visit our Angling Project Page for Sea Angling Advisories on species restrictions, prohibitions and best practice guidelines.► Fish markets and seafood retailers should also check CITES listings for latest trade regulations for sharks, skates and rays (e.g. as well as being a Prohibited species, Porbeagle (Lamna nasus) is also listed under CITES Appendix II, meaning permits are needed if importing).
► Shark Handling (pdf)► Recording & Reporting Discards (pdf)► Skate & Ray Handling (pdf)► Best Practice for Sharks, Skates & Rays (pdf)► Landings Obligations (pdf)
As part of a historic project, funded by the Co-operative, we created the resources below. Helping to support sustainability in Northern English shark and ray fisheries.► ID Guide to Sharks, Skates and Rays in Northern English Waters (pdf)► Pocket Guide to Sustainable Shark, Skate and Ray Fisheries in Northern English Waters (pdf)► Pocket Guide Poster outlining species prohibited or restricted to commercial vessels in Northern English waters (pdf)