Norway’s Pelagisk Forening has backed proposals to keep the same quota allocation model for North Sea herring fisheries in 2026, despite concerns over low quotas and the risk of early closures.
In its consultation response, the organisation said it agreed with the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries that the low quota level for the coastal fleet and weaker mackerel quotas could increase pressure on the North Sea herring fishery next year.
The directorate has proposed maintaining a 30 per cent overregulation level for the closed coastal fleet in 2026, matching the 2025 system. Pelagisk Forening accepted the proposal but stressed the importance of close monitoring throughout the season.
Concerns over early fishery closures
The organisation pointed to the 2025 season, when fishing on maximum quotas was halted during autumn to prevent the group quota from being exceeded.
Pelagisk Forening said it appreciated the directorate’s commitment to monitor the fishery closely and adjust regulations if needed.
UK zone access to remain unchanged
The consultation also covered quota access in UK waters. The directorate proposed using the same distribution keys as in previous years, and Pelagisk Forening supported that approach.
The organisation also accepted the proposed method for setting partial quota units in the British zone.
Pelagisk Forening warns against lost access
Pelagisk Forening said regulations must ensure that no vessel risks losing its allocated access to fishing in UK waters due to sudden closures or quota adjustments.
The Norwegian quota for North Sea herring in 2026 has not yet been finalised.