Norway has set its total snow crab quota for 2026 at 12,336 tonnes, following scientific advice from the Institute of Marine Research. The figure is 389 tonnes lower than in 2025 but reflects a stable and healthy stock in the Barents Sea.
Fisheries and Oceans Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss said the population has shown “a very positive development” and that the quota, which has nearly doubled in five years, shows the species remains in good condition compared to several other declining stocks.
Minimum size and regulation changes
The minimum shell width of 95 mm will remain in place next year to protect reproduction and ensure high-value catches. The government has also removed quota flexibility rules, meaning that any catch above the 2025 limit will not be deducted from 2026 allocations.
In addition, vessels granted snow crab licences after 1 January 2025 may continue to fish their guaranteed quotas if they have remaining volumes, from 1 December 2025 to 31 December 2025, after the closed season ends.
Industry and research alignment
The regulatory changes follow a consultation by the Directorate of Fisheries, which received broad support from industry groups. The Institute of Marine Research assessed that minor overfishing in 2025 would not negatively affect the stock.
The Barents Sea snow crab fishery, once uncertain due to environmental and territorial disputes, has become a solid part of Norway’s high-value crustacean sector.
Source