Faroe Islands fisheries scientists have advised a 5% cut in fishing days in 2026 for vessels targeting cod, haddock and saithe on the Faroese shelf.

The recommendation follows new stock assessments that showed mixed results, with cod still weak despite recent improvement. At the same time, haddock and saithe remain in better shape.

The advice is set out in Havstovan’s formal recommendations for the 2026 fishing year. It applies to Group 2 vessels (large trawlers targeting saithe) and Groups 3–5 (longliners, handliners and smaller trawlers targeting cod and haddock).

The scientists recommend using the long-term harvest rule rather than emergency rebuilding measures, while still advocating restraint.

Stocks above limits – but cod still fragile

According to the assessment, spawning stocks of cod, haddock and saithe were all above the critical limit (Blim) in 2025. This means the earlier-triggered emergency rebuilding plan no longer applies to 2026.

However, the picture differs by species. The saithe stock is considered relatively strong, with spawning biomass well above the limit. At the same time, fishing pressure in 2025 was estimated to exceed the upper reference level, under the harvest rule requiring a reduction in fishing days.

Haddock is in good condition, with low fishing pressure and signs of strong recent year classes. The spawning stock has been above precautionary limits since 2019.

Cod remains the weakest stock. Although the spawning biomass rose above the Blim in 2025, it remains below the minimum reference level. Fishing pressure on cod was estimated to exceed the upper limit in 2025, suggesting fewer fishing days.

Why are fishing days cut?

Based on the long-term harvest rule, Havstovan recommends:

  • A 5% reduction in allocated fishing days for Group 2 vessels in 2026 compared with 2025
  • A 5% reduction in allocated fishing days for Groups 3–5 in 2026 compared with 2025

The scientists stress that even small changes in the number of fishing days can have a significant effect, as catch per day varies strongly with environmental conditions and fish behaviour.

They also warn that cod may again move closer to shore in 2026, as seen in earlier years when the fish were in poor condition. If that happens, targeted measures may be needed to avoid heavy pressure in fjords and coastal areas.

Separate advice for Faroe Bank

The report also gives separate advice for Faroe Bank, which is not covered by the general management plan. Surveys indicate declining cod abundance on the bank, though it remains above average.

Because cod there appears leaner and more vulnerable, Havstovan recommends 150 fishing days in 2026 for a limited mix of large and small hook-and-line vessels. The aim is to remain cautious in fishing and avoid a new stock collapse.

Havstovan concludes that directing more effort towards haddock and less towards cod will be key if the cod stock is to recover further in the coming years.

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