Bass

Protecting Our Bass Fishery: More Bass, Bigger Bass, Fair Access

Bass are one of the most iconic and sought-after species for recreational sea anglers across England. From shorelines to inshore reefs, bass offer exciting sport, spectacular takes, and real value to the charter boat sector and coastal economies.

At the Angling Trust, we’re working to protect and grow this vital fishery, ensuring that anglers have fair access, that juvenile and spawning stocks are protected, and that compliance across all sectors is improved. We want more bass and bigger bass in the sea — for everyone.

The Issues That Matter to Anglers

Protecting Spawning & Juvenile Bass
Safeguarding pre-spawning aggregations and nursery areas through evidence-based protections.
Fair Access for Recreational Anglers
Ensuring the value of recreational sea angling is recognised in policy and access decisions.
Better Compliance & Enforcement
Advocating for stronger monitoring, reporting, and enforcement of regulations.

Our Work on Bass

Driving Policy. Supporting Science. Speaking Up for Anglers.

We are active members of the Bass Management Group, working directly on the implementation of the Bass Fisheries Management Plan.

Our priorities:

Reforming discards and reducing bass bycatch
Championing improved compliance with current rules and stronger enforcement of the regulations
Delivering a better future for bass and bass anglers

We’re also pushing for protections to stop the exploitation of spawning aggregations and to reduce pressure on juveniles before they reach maturity.

Bass Angling Brings Big Benefits

Economically important to coastal communities
Supports hundreds of jobs in the recreational sector including charter boats, guides, and tackle shops
Builds community, wellbeing, and engagement with the sea

We believe a sustainable, well-managed bass fishery can thrive — if the UK Government get the policies right, back them with science, and all stakeholders play their part.