Concerns over North Sea cod have surged after ICES advised a zero-quota for 2026—a move not seen since 2009. But according to Michael Andersen, Chief Biologist at Danish Fishers PO (Danmarks Fiskeriforening), the public debate has become distorted.
In a commentary published by Fiskeri Tidende, Andersen argues that media headlines have overstated the risk to the stock.
“It is far from what ICES actually writes. The southern stock is under pressure, but that does not mean the whole cod population is collapsing,” Michael Andersen, Chief Biologist says.
Two Conflicting ICES Recommendations
The updated ICES advice contains two figures: a zero-quota recommendation and, separately, an option for a catch level of about 12,000 tonnes in 2026.
Andersen says this nuance was missing from news reports, which focused only on the most dramatic message.
Trouble in the South, Stability Elsewhere
The challenge lies in the southern sub-stock, which remains outside safe biological limits. Even so, ICES modelling indicates it could still grow by 28% if catches remain under 1,866 tonnes. The other sub-stocks, Andersen notes, are in good condition.
Stock Larger Than 20 Years Ago
ICES estimates the total spawning stock at 62,000 tonnes—well above the 39,000-tonne low point recorded in 2005.
At that time, several years of advisory zero quotas did not prevent authorities from setting reduced but continued catch levels, combined with protection measures that helped stocks recover.
“We can fish and grow the stock at the same time,” Andersen argues, calling for a “balanced approach” rather than a blanket alarm.
The full commentary is authored (in Danish) by Michael Andersen, Chief Biologist, Danish Fishers PO (Danmarks Fiskeriforening), and published by Fiskeri Tidende on 20 November 2025.