The Scottish Government has unveiled a suite of draft Fisheries Management Plans aimed at safeguarding the long-term sustainability of demersal fish stocks.
Around 157 Scottish boats primarily target these species – which accounted for a quarter of the total value of fish landed last year, making their future a core concern for the sector.
The 11 proposals were developed jointly with other UK administrations and lay out a range of evidence-based actions tailored to each stock. They aim to reduce waste and illegal discarding, minimise environmental impacts, support the fishing industry’s cultural and economic role and help the sector manage the pressures of climate change.
“Our vision is for Scotland to be a world-class fishing nation, delivering responsible and sustainable fisheries management,” said Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon.
“These draft Fisheries Management Plans mark a significant step forware. I encourage everyone with an interest in Scotland’s marine environment to engage with this consultation and help shape the future of our fisheries.”
The consultation will run until 11 March 2026, and officials are urging fishers, environmental groups and the public to respond.
Governments across the UK have echoed the significance of the proposals. Welsh Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies described the joint work as ‘another positive step forward’ in delivering the UK-wide programme of 43 Fisheries Management Plans.
Northern Ireland’s Agriculture Minister, Andrew Muir, also welcomed the opportunity for feedback, saying the stocks ‘are of importance to the Northern Ireland fishing fleet’.
If adopted, the plans would help define how demersal fisheries are managed for years to come.
