The Institute of Marine Research (HI) in Norway advises a sharp cut in shrimp catches in the Barents Sea in 2026. Total catches should not exceed 83,000 tonnes. The advice reflects a weaker stock after high landings in 2024 and rising uncertainty in stock estimates.
Landings have been well below advice since 2020. In 2024, catches peaked at about 95,000 tonnes. New survey data now point to a lower stock level.
Stock estimate at its lowest level since surveys began
HI’s 2025 ecosystem survey recorded the lowest stock estimate since the survey series began in 2004. Scientists say the stock has declined after the high catches in 2024. Uncertainty in the assessment has also lowered the advice.
Despite the drop, researchers stress that the stock is still sustainable.
“The stock is still at a high level, but closer to what we expect as the long-term normal,” said HI researcher Fabian Zimmermann.
No shared quota for the fishery
There is still no joint total quota or harvest rule for Barents Sea shrimp. The stock is mainly fished by Norway, Russia and the EU. Norway regulates its fishery through bycatch rules and gear limits.
HI warns that interest in shrimp fishing tends to rise when quotas in other fisheries fall. This makes monitoring and cooperation more important.
Call for closer follow-up
The strong catches in 2024 have helped scientists learn more about how the stock reacts to fishing pressure. HI says this knowledge should support future management.
Zimmermann said a closer follow-up of the stock and work towards joint management is needed as pressure on the fishery grows.