According to the latest International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) figures, cod stocks in the North Sea have risen for the seventh year in a row and there are indications that reduced discarding, and improved fisheries management have played a key part.

Hazel Curtis of Seafish said: “This has been a breakthrough year for cod stocks in the North Sea. The ICES report shows a trebling in stock size over the past seven years and this is for a number of reasons, such as the sustained efforts of our fishing fleet to fish more selectively, coupled with innovations in management practice and favourable environmental conditions.”

Ms Curtis also said that if the management plan for cod is followed, ICES estimates that the stock size could increase by a further 45% next year.

“Looking ahead, UK processors can anticipate a continued increase in landings of sustainably caught North Sea cod and can start working with fishermen to develop new products and markets that can benefit the whole seafood supply chain and British consumers”, she said.

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