Beyond the Breakers

19 December 2024

Approved! Sussex IFCA Minimum Size Byelaw: What Sea Anglers Need to Know

Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) has announced the approval of its Minimum Size (Fish, Crustacea and Mollusc) Byelaw 2021 by the Secretary of State for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The new Byelaw applies to everyone fishing within the Sussex district, both commercial and recreational, and will include species not previously considered, for the first time.

What do anglers need to know?

Under the new Byelaw, anglers who catch an undersized fish in Sussex must return it to the water immediately – even if it is dead. You can increase the chance of undersized fish surviving by using barbless or circle hooks and adopting careful handling practices.

The new byelaw also applies to crabs and mollusc species in Sussex district so anglers who hand gather for personal consumption and bait should also be aware of the new measures.

There are exceptions. Undersized anchovy, herring, horse mackerel, mackerel, sardine and whiting may be retained only to use as live bait to fish for predatory fish.

A full breakdown of the species include in the Byelaw and the sizes that apply can be found here: Sussex IFCA Minimum Size (Fish, Crustacea and Mollusc) Byelaw 2021.

Tackle box stickers highlighting minimum sizes of common species within Sussex have been produced and Sussex IFCA officers will be distributing these whilst on patrols throughout the district. You can request stickers by emailing Sussex IFCA at [email protected].

Whilst it is a good start that alongside many recreational sea anglers we strongly welcome, the Angling Trust believes many of these minimum sizes fall short of allowing each species to breed once before being retained. We will continue fighting for these minimum sizes to be increased over time, but for now, celebrate that fish, crustacean and mollusc stocks will now receive greater protection in Sussex inshore waters.

Sussex IFCA has produced extensive guidance for stakeholders on the Minimum Size (Fish, Crustacea and Mollusc) Byelaw 2021 and the Angling Trust encourages anglers within the district to familiarise themselves with these materials.

As recreational sea anglers, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged in matters that directly impact the health of our ocean and the future of our sport. The Angling Trust is committed to fighting for fish, fishing and the environment.    

Make sure you subscribe to our newsletter and join our Facebook group to be the first to know about the latest sea angling policy developments. 

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