Fishing News 20240527-20240602
Fishing News 20240527-20240602 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
Senegal Faces “Yellow Card” for IUU Fishing (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
May 27, 2024
(source: ec.europa.eu – by PRESS RELEASE)
The European Commission has warned Senegal about its insufficient efforts to combat illegal fishing.. This decision follows years of observed deficiencies and insufficient cooperation from Senegal.
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Senegal has failed to meet its international obligations to combat illegal fishing.
Specific Deficiencies in Senegal’s Systems
Several shortcomings have been identified in Senegal’s monitoring, control, and surveillance systems.
Issues relate to Senegalese vessels operating outside jurisdiction and monitoring of foreign fishing vessels. Illegal fish exports to the EU undermine traceability and certification.
Senegal’s reluctance to collaborate with the Commission in combating IUU fishing further contributed to the issuance of the yellow card.
Addressing the Global Threat of IUU Fishing (Fishing News 20240520-20240526)
The EU Commission takes a zero-tolerance stance on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing due to its damaging effect on sustainable use of aquatic resources.
This practice undermines global efforts to promote effective ocean governance and the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy. IUU fishing also represents a significant threat to the marine environment, the sustainability of fish stocks, and marine biodiversity.
EU’s Commitment to Combatting IUU Fishing
The fight against IUU fishing is integral to the European Green Deal, the EU’s biodiversity strategy for protecting the marine environment, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean, seas, and marine resources.
Formal Dialogue with Senegal and Next Steps
The Commission will initiate a formal dialogue with Senegal, acknowledging the new government’s commitment to addressing existing shortcomings. The EU has expressed its willingness to support Senegal in its efforts to combat IUU fishing.
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This “yellow card” does not currently impact trade between Senegal and the EU. However, if Senegal does not take action to rectify the situation within a reasonable timeframe, the EU may issue a “red card.” This could result in sanctions such as the prohibition of exporting fish products to the EU market.
Background and Global Implications of IUU Fishing
The EU is the world’s largest importer of fish products. IUU fishing poses a significant economic threat, with global value estimated at €10-20 billion per year. It is also responsible for capturing between 11 and 26 million tons of fish illegally each year, representing at least 15% of global catches.
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The Commission’s decision today is based on the EU’s IUU Regulation, implemented in 2010. This regulation includes a catch certification scheme to ensure only legally caught fish enter the EU market. It also outlines specific dialogue mechanisms with countries failing to meet their international obligations as flag, coastal, port, and market states.
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While sanctions are a last resort, the EU prioritizes cooperation and support to address IUU fishing. Since 2012, the Commission has engaged in formal dialogues with 27 third countries, urging them to take effective action against IUU fishing. In most cases, substantial progress has been observed, allowing the Commission to close the formal dialogue and lift the “yellow card.” However, a few countries have yet to demonstrate the necessary commitment to reform.
Philippine Navy Vows to Protect Fishermen Amid Chinese Ban (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
May 28, 2024
(source: benarnews.org – by Jason Gutierrez)
China Imposes Annual Fishing Ban
The Philippine military has declared its commitment to safeguarding Filipino fishermen during China’s four-month fishing ban in disputed South China Sea waters, including areas within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). This annual moratorium, which began on May 1st and is scheduled to last until September 16th, has sparked outrage in the Philippines. Manila, in a diplomatic protest, has asserted that the ban violates its sovereign rights. Beijing counters that the moratorium promotes sustainable fishing and marine conservation in the region.
Increased Patrols and Fishermen’s Resolve
In response to the Chinese ban, the Philippine Navy has deployed additional vessels to protect Filipino fishermen. Commodore Ray Vincent Trinidad, a Philippine Navy spokesperson, emphasized the Navy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Filipino citizens, both on land and at sea, regardless of China’s pronouncements. He also confirmed the increase in patrols throughout the West Philippine Sea, Manila’s designation for areas in the South China Sea within its EEZ.
Filipino Fishermen Defy Chinese Ban (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Despite China’s threats of arrest, Filipino fishermen have vowed to continue fishing in the disputed waters. Joey Marabe, the provincial coordinator of the Filipino fishermen’s group Pamalakaya in Zambales, condemned the ban as a “baseless” and “unacceptable insult.” He pointed to China’s history of destructive fishing practices and asserted that no foreign entity has the right to impede Filipino fishing activities within their territory.
China’s Aggressive Actions and the Scarborough Shoal
The Chinese fishing moratorium coincides with a new order from the China Coast Guard, set to go into effect on June 15th. This order authorizes the detention of foreign vessels and nationals suspected of entering Beijing-claimed waters in the South China Sea for up to 30 days, or even 60 days in certain cases. Manila has condemned this order as “illegal” and warned of consequences should it be implemented.
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Adding to tensions, China has a history of aggressive actions in the South China Sea. In 2012, China seized the Scarborough Shoal, a traditional fishing ground in Manila’s EEZ, following a standoff with the Philippine Navy. Manila subsequently took China to an international arbitral court, which in 2016 issued a landmark ruling in favor of the Philippines, invalidating China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea. However, Beijing has disregarded this ruling and continues to occupy the Scarborough Shoal, which Manila refers to as Bajo de Masinloc. Recently, the China Coast Guard shadowed a Filipino civilian mission to Scarborough, though no significant incident occurred.
Manila’s Diplomatic Protests and Marcos’s Upcoming Speech
Manila has filed its 25th diplomatic protest against China this year, the 158th since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in 2022. The Philippines has underscored that the Chinese fishing ban undermines the commitment made by Marcos and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to manage differences through diplomacy and dialogue, and to reduce tensions at sea. Marcos is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, an international security forum in Singapore, where he is expected to discuss the South China Sea dispute. He has emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to a rules-based international order and constructive multilateralism in the face of regional geopolitical challenges.
Faroese Strike Disrupts Fish Supply (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
May 29, 2024
(source: benarnews.org – by Jason Gutierrez)
Landings in Scrabster Despite Strike
The ongoing strike in the Faroe Islands has led to several Faroese landings in Scrabster last week, following the initial landing by the vessel formerly known as Aalskere, now named Vesturvardi, the week prior. Despite efforts by Faroese vessels to directly land catches in third countries, including Scotland, Denmark, and Iceland, evidence suggests that the regular flow of fish has been disrupted.
Impact on Prices and Market Activity (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Martin Boyers, CEO of Grimsby Fish Market, observed price increases at the Grimsby auction since the strike began. He attributed this to increased activity from Humber processors who rely on direct supply from Faroese vessels. These processors, unable to receive their usual supply, are now actively participating in the Grimsby market, driving up prices for Icelandic fish.
Faroese Landings in Scotland
Some Scottish skippers have voiced concerns that Faroese landings in Scotland are negatively impacting the prices they receive for their catches, both at auctions and through direct sales. However, many in the value chain dispute this claim. The Faroese landings have largely consisted of sizes and species that Scottish skippers are either avoiding due to quota limitations or are not actively targeting as bycatch.
Destination of Faroese Catches
The majority of Faroese landings have been consigned directly to factories on the Humber or in North East Scotland under existing contracts. However, some fish has also been sold through local sales channels to new customers.
Shetland Remains Unimpacted (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Despite its proximity to the Faroese fleet and the fact that several Faroese vessels have sailed to Hanstholm to land catches directly in the EU market, Shetland has yet to receive any Faroese landings. One local source attributed this to concerns about the need to re-box and re-ice Faroese fish, along with the manpower requirements to ensure efficient handling.
Uncertainty Remains
Faroe media reports indicate that no end to the current strike is in sight. The potential for resolution of the pay dispute, however, could lead to a rapid return to normal fishing and sales arrangements, creating uncertainty for UK ports regarding future Faroese landings.
Benefits of Open Auctions (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Martin Boyers highlighted the value of fish auctions, such as those in Grimsby, Peterhead, and Brixham, in situations like the current strike. He emphasized that open auctions offer a transparent price-setting mechanism, benefiting both buyers and sellers. He argued that without auctions, fish could face the same fate as milk or cheese, with producers vulnerable to price manipulation by supermarkets.
A Lesson Learned
Boyers stressed the importance of competitive auctions in determining the true price and value of fish, benefiting the entire catching sector. He cautioned that without such auctions, the catching sector would suffer.
Federal Restrictions Protect Turtles Amid El Niño Conditions (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
May 30, 2024
(source: courthousenews.com – by SAM RIBAKOFF)
Temporary Gillnet Ban in Southern California
To safeguard endangered loggerhead sea turtles, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced a temporary ban on fishing with large-mesh drift gillnets in federal waters off the Southern California coast. This restriction will be in effect from June to August. The decision comes after officials determined that El Niño weather patterns are prevalent in the region.
El Niño and Sea Turtle Migrations
El Niño, known for its diverse weather effects across the United States, leads to warmer Pacific Ocean waters and a disruption in the food chain. As a consequence, loggerhead turtles, typically found further south, are more likely to expand their range into Southern California waters during this time.
Protecting Turtles from Gillnet Entanglement (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Large-mesh drift gillnets, often miles long, are used to catch fish like swordfish, but they can also entangle other marine creatures, including whales, dolphins, sharks, and turtles. The temporary ban aims to prevent endangered loggerhead turtles from becoming caught in these nets during commercial fishing operations.
Controversial Gillnets and Future Regulations
The catch-all nature of large-mesh drift gillnets has sparked controversy. In 2022, President Biden signed the Driftnet Modernization and Bycatch Reduction Act, phasing out the use of these nets. California also enacted legislation in 2018 to ban large-mesh drift gillnets by 2024. The federal temporary ban extends to federal waters from three to twelve miles off the coast, while the state law covers waters up to three miles.
Environmentalists Praise the Measure (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
The current temporary restriction applies to an area off the Southern Californian coast from Point Conception to the U.S.-Mexico border, known as the “Pacific Loggerhead Conservation Area in the Southern California Bight.” Environmental groups have welcomed the announcement, citing the threats loggerhead turtles face due to warming waters, changing habitats, and entanglement in fishing gear.
Potential Lifting of Restrictions
The temporary prohibition could be lifted before August if La Niña conditions return. In the meantime, the NMFS is working to protect endangered loggerhead sea turtles by temporarily limiting fishing practices in Southern California waters.
Scaly Fishing Slows Down as Water Cools (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
May 31, 2024
(source: witness.co.za- by Jan Korrubel)
River Fishing Reports
As temperatures cool, the river trout season is winding down, leading to a decrease in fishing activity. Anglers report catching primarily smaller specimens, with the Natal Fly Fishers Club reporting catches in the 7-9 inch range on the Mooi River beats.
Low and Clear Water Conditions
The Mooi River water levels are low and crystal clear, necessitating stealthy fishing techniques as the fish are easily spooked. A dry-dropper rig has proven effective in these conditions. The NFFC beats on the Bushman’s River also produced a good variety of fish, ranging in size from 7-9 inches to 11-13 inches.
Scaly Still Found on the Umkomaas River
While the water on the Umkomaas River is reported to be very clear with a slow flow, anglers have still found scaly in the 5-7 inch to 9-11 inch range. As temperatures continue to cool, scaly fishing is expected to decline, though reports from previous years suggest that excellent winter catches can be found on the Tugela River.
Stillwaters in Focus (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Cooler Nights Impact Stillwaters
With the “winter” stillwater season in full swing, stillwaters have attracted the most attention from NFFC anglers. Cooler nights have resulted in water temperatures reaching 16°C in some areas, influencing fishing conditions.
Successful Still Water Fishing
Catches in stillwaters have primarily fallen into the 13-15 inch and 15-17 inch categories, with some fish reaching 17-19 inches. Olive patterns, particularly dragon and damselfly nymphs, and the popular woolly bugger, continue to be effective lures.
Events and Bass Fishing Reports (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Hastings Exclusive and TOPS Corporate Challenge
The Hastings Exclusive event, held on the stillwaters of the upper Dargle, saw successful fishing, although results are still pending. Leg 2 of the TOPS Corporate Challenge will take place this weekend on the waters around Nottingham Road.
Mixed Reports from Bass Anglers
Bass fishing reports are mixed, with some anglers noting an abundance of small fish, while others report catching larger specimens. Local angler Don Murugan landed a solid Albert Falls bucket mouth, highlighting a successful season.
Steady Fishing at Midmar
While no direct reports are available from Midmar, anglers suggest that fishing is steady and productive.
Respect the Environment
Anglers are encouraged to leave fishing areas in better condition than they found them, picking up litter and disposing of it properly. Tight lines and screaming reels!
Illegal Fishing Leads to Five-Year Criminal Behaviour Orders (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
June 1, 2024
(source: nottinghamshire.police.uk- by ???)
Nighttime Fishing Bust at Idle Valley Nature Reserve
Officers from the Bassetlaw neighbourhood policing team apprehended two men fishing illegally at the Idle Valley Nature Reserve near Retford. They responded to reports of illegal fishing activity at the private site, which prohibits angling and features signs at entry and exit points.
Repeat Offenders Caught Red-Handed
At approximately 8 pm on February 2, 2024, officers observed repeat offenders Luke Douglas and Layton Janes fishing on the lake without permission. Janes, who possessed fishing rods and equipment, attempted to evade officers by fleeing through a field containing livestock. Upon returning to his vehicle, he admitted to engaging in nighttime fishing, stating, “I thought we would get away with it this time.” Douglas, who had rods set up at the lake’s edge and was controlling a bait boat, was also apprehended.
Court Appearance and Criminal Behaviour Orders (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
Both men, from Leeds, were issued summons to appear in court. They pleaded guilty to unlawfully attempting to take fish and appeared in Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on May 23, 2024. The court issued five-year criminal behaviour orders, prohibiting Janes and Douglas from entering Idle Valley Nature Reserve and Clumber Park and forbidding them from fishing or possessing fishing equipment within the Bassetlaw district. Janes was also prohibited from operating a drone on Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust property.
Consequences of Illegal Fishing
Janes was fined £320, while Douglas received a £160 fine. The convictions and criminal behaviour orders were achieved through the diligent work of PC Hollie Marsh. The case highlights the consequences of engaging in illegal fishing activities, particularly on protected natural areas.
Pinnacle Rock State Park Hosts Annual Fishing Rodeo for Kids (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
June 2, 2024
(source: wvva.com- by Clayton McChesney)
Free Fishing Event for Kids
The Friends of Pinnacle Rock host an annual free fishing rodeo at Pinnacle Rock State Park in Mercer County, West Virginia. The event, held at the park’s Jimmy Lewis Lake, encourages children to reconnect with nature through the traditional activity of fishing. Over 30 children participated in this year’s rodeo, enjoying the opportunity to fish for free.
Kids Express Their Enjoyment
Young participants expressed their enthusiasm for the event. Natalie, one of the children, stated, “We wanted to go fishing today, so I caught a catfish.” Adalyn, another participant, shared her experience, saying, “My mamma and papa brought me here. It’s really fun watching all these people catch fish, and I caught a catfish.” Bre, another child, highlighted the social aspect of the rodeo, noting, “…I can meet all kinds of friends up here.”
Prizes and Community Connection (Fishing News 20240527-20240602)
The rodeo offers more than just fishing, with a raffle drawing that awards free tents, kayaks, and fishing gear to lucky children. Rebecca Allen, a board member for the Friends of Pinnacle Rock, emphasized the importance of the annual event to the community.
Allen explained that the event encourages children to connect with nature and with each other, saying, “…In this age of cellphones and what have you and people are always just sort of into that, this brings people outside and the kids all, they share their bait and they learn about getting along with other kids and sharing and that sort of things and it just brings people out for a good time outdoors which is always what we need more of.”
A Decade-Long Tradition
The Friends of Pinnacle Rock have organized the fishing rodeo for over a decade, demonstrating their commitment to providing opportunities for children to experience the outdoors. They plan to continue the tradition, allowing future generations of children to enjoy fishing at Pinnacle Rock State Park.