Fisheries Minister praises anglers’ move to adopt voluntary guidelines to support pollack recovery

The Angling Trust and the Professional Boatmen’s Association (PBA), have recently launched new voluntary guidelines for recreational pollack fishing, aimed at promoting sustainable practices and aiding the recovery of pollack stocks in UK waters.

Following extensive consultation with the recreational angling sector, these guidelines are designed to empower anglers to act in rebuilding pollack populations. The guidelines are built on the best available science and aim to provide clear and practical advice for anglers to follow, ensuring a healthier future for pollack while still enjoying the benefits of angling. The guidelines will continue to be refined and updated as new evidence is analysed so pollack anglers are well-informed on responsible practices.

Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries for England, has welcomed these voluntary guidelines, recognising the important role that recreational anglers play in pollack conservation.

Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:

“It’s crucial that everyone plays their part in protecting pollack stocks and I encourage recreational anglers to follow these new guidelines. This government is committed to sustainable fisheries management and we need to see the recreational angling sector stepping up with measures to support pollack recovery. We will be keenly monitoring pollack stocks and considering future measures through our Fisheries Management Plans.”

Jamie Cook, CEO of the Angling Trust, stated:

“By following these voluntary guidelines, anglers can play a leading role in pollack conservation and ensure that future generations can enjoy this important fishery. Pollack is a crucial species for recreational anglers, providing both economic and social value, from supporting local businesses to promoting wellbeing through experiencing the UK coastline. The Angling Trust is committed to working alongside anglers, scientists, and policymakers to develop practical, evidence-based solutions that protect pollack stocks for the long term.”

The guidelines launched by the Angling Trust and PBA demonstrate the benefits of collaboration between government, science, and the angling community in ensuring the long-term health of our seas.

Pollack populations have been facing significant declines. The Angling Trust believes that by working together, the recreational angling sector, scientists, and the government can help to rebuild this important species. The Angling Trust is committed to supporting sustainable management measures that protect pollack stocks, while also ensuring that the recreational sector can continue to thrive.

The voluntary guidelines include several key recommendations, such as a maximum bag limit of five pollack per angler per day, the release of fish below 50cm to allow them to mature, and the use of descending devices to improve the survival rate of released fish. Anglers are also encouraged to participate in citizen science projects like the Pollack FISP project and Sea Angling Diary, which provide valuable data on pollack populations to inform future management decisions. As the recognised National Governing Body for recreational sea angling in England, the Angling Trust hope to see the voluntary guidelines adopted by every recreational sea angler in the country.

The Angling Trust is calling on all anglers, clubs, and skippers to support the initiative and adopt the Pollack Pact, committing to responsible angling practices and contributing to the recovery of pollack populations.

Join the Pollack Pact today:

Click here for more information on the Pollack Pact and to access the full voluntary guidelines.