Norwegian scientists have again advised a full stop to capelin fishing in the Barents Sea for 2026, after new surveys show the stock has fallen to its lowest level since 1995.
The advice comes despite a similar zero-quota recommendation for 2025, with the stock now trading below 40% of last year’s already weak level.
Stock at a historic low
Researchers found tiny amounts of capelin on and around the Storbanken area, a key feeding ground. Two strong year classes from 2019 and 2020 have been followed by weak recruitment. This has pushed the spawning stock to its highest level in three decades.
Lead scientist Georg Skaret said the collapse is severe but not without hope. He noted that capelin stocks have shown an ability to recover when fishing pressure is removed: “The stock is very low, but history shows it can rebuild if given time.”
Strong survey coverage
This year’s Barents Sea ecosystem survey offered excellent coverage across both Norwegian and Russian waters.
Scientists say the data give a clear picture of the stock’s condition and support the call for a continued fishing halt.
The short life cycle of capelin means the stock can shift quickly in size, distribution and growth from year to year.
The outlook for 2027 is also weak
Researchers warn that the low numbers of immature capelin suggest little chance of reopening the fishery in 2027. Previous monitoring has shown several periods of collapse lasting at least four years.
The final quota decision for 2026 will be made by the Norwegian–Russian Fisheries Commission, which is meeting this week.