The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has released its 2026 advice for cod, haddock and saithe in Faroese waters.
The new figures show sharp increases for some stocks and cuts for others, based on the latest scientific assessments.
Substantial rise for cod on the Faroe Shelf
Cod on the Landgrunnurin (Faroe Shelf) shows the most significant change. ICES recommends a catch of 6,075 tonnes in 2026, more than double last year’s advice of 2,848 tonnes.
The stock is now above the level where special protection is needed, though still below the precautionary mark. Scientists say the growth is due to strong recruitment over the past few years.
Sharp cut for cod on the Faroe Bank
For cod on the Føroyabanki (Faroe Bank), ICES advises only 403 tonnes, down from 575 tonnes. The decline is linked to a precautionary harvest rule and lower survey catches.
Research vessels have recorded declining numbers of cod on the bank, prompting the reduced advice for 2026.
Significant increase for haddock; stable outlook for saithe
Haddock receives a substantial upgrade. ICES recommends 19,653 tonnes, up from 12,204 tonnes. Low fishing pressure and strong year classes from 2023 and 2024 support this rise and are expected to enter the fishery in the coming year.
Saithe remains almost unchanged. The new advice is 24,032 tonnes, close to last year’s level. Recruitment has been above average, and the stock size is considered safely above risk thresholds.