Danish authorities have launched two calls for fishing vessels to join scientific surveys targeting mackerel and sprat in the North Sea and adjacent waters this summer, offering quota-based compensation for participation.

The projects are run by DTU Aqua and the Danish Pelagic Producers Organisation (DPPO). Both aim to improve stock data used in quota advice and fisheries management.

Mackerel survey to map distribution and ecosystem role

One vessel is sought for a mackerel trawl survey lasting up to 10 days between 1 July and 1 August 2026. The work will take place in EU, Norwegian, Swedish and UK waters in the North Sea.

The survey will focus on how mackerel spread across the North Sea. It will also collect data on stomach contents to assess the species’ role in the ecosystem.

The results will feed into the International Ecosystem Summer Survey in the Nordic Seas (IESSNS) and ICES stock assessments.

Only one pelagic trawler above 55 metres will be selected. The vessel must have experience in mackerel fishing and meet strict technical and operational requirements.

Compensation will be paid as a mackerel quota for 2026, calculated based on the vessel’s stated charter rate.

Sprat acoustic survey to test new method

A separate call targets one vessel for a sprat acoustic survey under the BEBRIS2 project. The work will run for 7 survey days and 1 calibration day between 1 June and 30 July 2026.

The survey will run in parallel with the international HERAS survey in the North Sea.

The aim is to test the use of commercial vessels with scientific echo sounders to estimate sprat biomass and recruitment.

Fishing during the survey will be limited to small samples for measurement. No commercial landings are allowed.

The selected vessel must be equipped with calibrated acoustic systems and have experience in sprat fishing and acoustic work.

Compensation will be paid as a sprat quota, covering charter costs and project expenses.

Open application and quota-based compensation

Both projects are announced by the Danish Fisheries Agency to ensure open access for eligible vessels.

If more vessels meet the requirements, selection will be made by lottery.

Applications for the sprat survey close on 29 April 2026. The deadline for the mackerel survey is 3 May 2026.

Both projects link compensation to average 2025 fish prices, reduced by 20% to reflect market variation.