October 2026 proposed catch review
Published 17 September 2026
© Crown copyright 2026
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/october-catch-limit-review-2026/october-2026-proposed-catch-review
The following changes are proposed for 1st October 2026
1. Under-10 meter vessels
| Stock by Area | September 2026 | October 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Pollack - 7 | 2.5t monthly | 1.5t monthly |
| Picked Dogfish – 2a, 4 | 5t monthly | 8t monthly |
2. Over-10 meter non-sector vessels
| Stock by Area | September 2026 | October 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Pollack - 7 | 2.5t monthly | 1.5t monthly |
| Picked Dogfish – 2a, 4 | 5t monthly | 8t monthly |
3. Proposed Reduction to Pollack Catch Limits
The MMO are considering reducing the Pollack 7 catch limit for both 10m and under and over 10m non sector vessels. Data shows a reduction in uptake for September which is in line with previous years. Handline uptake has reduced as expected in line with the summer season coming to an end. A 1.5t catch limit reflects the average peak in historic uptake for the smaller number vessels that operate in this period.
The increased catch limit that has been in place over the summer months has provided support for the handline fishery which has the lowest environmental impact of the gears used to catch pollack. This is in line with the Fisheries Act sustainability objective and Section 25 of the Fisheries Act which states ‘When distributing quotas the national fisheries authorities must seek to incentivise the use of fishing techniques that have a reduced impact on the environment’.