
Fishing News Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20250120-20250126

Latest Fishing News 20250120-20250126 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
The Sandeel Saga: Brexit’s First Trade Court Clash (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
January 20, 2025
(source: bbc.com – by Paul Seddon)
The humble sandeel has become an unlikely protagonist. It now finds itself at the center of the first major trade dispute between the United Kingdom and the European Union since Brexit. The UK government has prohibited European vessels from catching this small fish in its North Sea waters. This action aims to safeguard the marine ecosystem, specifically the wildlife that depends on sandeels for survival. However, the EU argues that the UK’s ban unfairly discriminates against Danish fishing boats. Therefore, this breach of the post-Brexit trade agreement forces a confrontation in court.
Tribunal Showdown: A Test of Post-Brexit Rules
The escalating dispute is heading to a three-day trade tribunal hearing. Formal talks between the two parties failed to resolve the issue. This courtroom showdown marks the first arbitration under the 2021 trade agreement. The deal was originally agreed to by Boris Johnson’s government. Without a last-minute resolution, the tribunal will set a precedent. It will also test the strength and limits of the post-Brexit agreement. The tribunal’s verdict could have profound implications for future UK-EU relations.
The Hague Hearing: Judge’s Decision Looms
The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague will host the hearing. A panel of three international trade judges will preside over the case. These judges were selected through mutual agreement between the UK and EU. They could decide to support the UK’s stance. Alternatively, they could force the UK to reverse or modify its ban. If the UK fails to comply with any ruling that favors the EU, Brussels could impose tariffs. These tariffs would be imposed on British exports as a form of retaliation. The final ruling is expected by the end of April, leaving little time for maneuvering. No appeals are possible after the verdict is rendered.
Beyond Sandeels: Future Negotiations and Political Landscape (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
The sandeel dispute comes at a sensitive time. The UK is gearing up for complex negotiations with the EU. These negotiations concern new fishing quotas starting next June. The current arrangements under the trade deal will expire by then. Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour party, also hopes to reshape UK-EU relations. He aims to strike new deals in security and food trade. This effort aims for a broader “reset” in the relationship after Brexit.
Ecological Importance: More Than Just Bait Fish
Sandeels are not fished for human consumption. You will not see them on restaurant menus in European cities. Yet, these small, eel-like fish are vital. They serve as a critical food source for other fish. They also form a large part of the diet of threatened seabirds such as puffins. The UK has already restricted its own fishermen from catching the species since 2021. This is part of their effort to prevent overfishing and preserve the North Sea’s ecology. The outright ban by the UK won widespread praise from environmental groups. They had long fought for such protections. Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour government has maintained the ban since taking office.
Danish Discontent: Economic Impact on Fishing Communities (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
While environmental groups praise the ban, Danish fishermen feel outraged. These fishermen sell their sandeel catch to animal feed and fish oil producers. Post-Brexit, they have the right to a significant share of the EU’s catch in UK waters. They feel that the UK ban disproportionately affects their livelihood. They argue that conservation measures should not come at the expense of their fishing rights. This clash highlights the complex interplay between ecological preservation and economic activity.
Clash of Rights: Conservation Versus Economic Interests
The central point of contention is about balancing conservation with fishing rights. The EU argues that the geographic extent of the UK’s ban is excessive. They also state that the scientific data does not support such a sweeping ban. They claim that the ban has caused “economic and social impacts” for Danish communities. The UK, on the other hand, stands firm by its science. The UK government stated it followed the best models and was acting within its rights. They also point out that the trade agreement itself emphasizes the importance of biodiversity.
Unexpected Allies: The Wide Support for the Ban (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
The UK’s decision to maintain the ban has gathered support. It comes from a broad coalition of unlikely allies. This includes not only environmental groups but also Brexiteers and members of three different political parties. The renewable energy sector also supports the ban. They argue that the ban is necessary for seabird resilience. Increased seabird populations allow more wind farms to be built. This will help achieve both environmental and energy goals.
High Stakes: Implications for Future Disputes
The annual value of sandeels caught in UK waters is relatively small. It is around £45 million, a minor amount in the grand scheme of UK-EU trade. However, this dispute’s importance goes far beyond the money involved. The ruling in this case will establish a model for future disputes. It will show how to reconcile the UK’s conservation rights with the EU’s fishing rights. The outcome will be closely watched by both sides and will shape their future interactions.
Trump’s Second Term: A Dark Cloud for Ocean Wildlife (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
January 21, 2025
(source: therevelator.org – by Dr. David Shiffman)
The re-election of Donald Trump raises grave concerns among scientists and conservationists. They worry about the fate of wildlife and wild places. This is especially true for ocean and coastal conservation efforts. Trump’s past actions and rhetoric have caused alarm. He has attacked climate science and supported dismantling key environmental agencies. Moreover, scientists fear job losses and persecution under this new administration.
Unraveling Protections: A History of Environmental Rollbacks
During his first term, Trump showed disregard for protected areas. He became the first president to remove protections from a marine national monument. The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument lost fishing restrictions. This monument is home to endangered marine species and fragile deep-sea corals. Trump’s statements against national monuments and public lands suggest this will repeat. “Project 2025,” a right-wing plan, even calls for destructive mining in protected areas.
Climate Change Denial: A Looming Threat (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
The planet faces a significant threat from climate change. This threat is expected to worsen under Trump’s policies. He previously withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement. Experts now say limiting global temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius is almost impossible. Oceans will experience more heat waves. Ice caps will continue to melt. Consequently, sea levels will rise. Many ocean species are already moving or declining because of warming waters.
Species at Risk: A Bleak Future for Marine Life
Trump’s record and promises indicate a lack of support for marine life. These species need assistance to avoid further declines and extinction. Experts warn that abandoning climate goals is catastrophic. Loosening restrictions on pollution will be harmful. Failing to enact new environmental limits is equally damaging. These actions impact countless marine creatures.
Federal Responsibilities: Agencies in Jeopardy (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
NOAA is responsible for conserving 40 endangered and 59 threatened marine species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service protects even more freshwater and coastal species. These creatures and their ecosystems now face an uncertain future. Trump’s policies could cripple the agencies responsible for their survival. Therefore, many species are in danger.
Smalltooth Sawfish: An Example of Threats
The critically endangered smalltooth sawfish illustrates these threats. This ray is vulnerable to habitat loss and entanglement in fishing gear. A recent disease also caused sawfish to spin until they died. Saving sawfish requires implementing a recovery plan. This plan needs consistent funding. It depends on federal agencies that Trump has vowed to cut.
Regulatory Rollbacks: A Danger to Recovery (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
Trump’s promise to expedite environmental approvals threatens sawfish habitat. Projects that damage critical habitat could face limited review. This would undermine conservation efforts. Such deregulation would endanger many species. It emphasizes the negative impacts of prioritizing industry over conservation.
North Atlantic Right Whales: A Race Against Extinction
Other experts are concerned about the fate of right whales. There are fewer than 400 North Atlantic right whales left. They face threats from fishing gear and vessel strikes. These threats are the primary cause of their death. Experts emphasize that current restrictions are insufficient. Saving them requires adopting new fishing gear and limiting vessel speeds. Trump’s deregulation stance makes such protections unlikely.
Unprotected Whales: Deregulation Undermines Conservation (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
During the last days of the Biden administration, NOAA withdrew a proposed rule protecting right whales. This withdrawal could signal further deregulation under Trump. Furthermore, the commercial fishing industry expects more fishing in protected areas. They also anticipate fewer regulations. These changes would greatly harm the right whale’s chances of survival.
Rice’s Whales: A Species in Peril
Rice’s whales are even rarer than right whales. These baleen whales live in the Gulf of Mexico. They are threatened by noise pollution, boat strikes, and oil spills. Trump’s “drill baby drill” policy threatens their habitat even further. His hostility toward scientific agencies is cause for major concern. These factors present a bleak outlook for this whale species.
Habitat Destruction: Military Exercises and Oil Exploration (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
Rice’s whales have not yet received critical habitat designation. A proposal to allow military exercises in their habitat almost passed. The fate of both the critical habitat and the military exercises is unclear. The incoming administration seems determined to prioritize industrial activities over ecological concerns.
Hawaiian Monk Seals: Fragile Recovery at Risk
Hawaiian monk seals face threats like habitat loss, entanglement, and disease. While their populations have shown positive signs, they remain endangered. Their recovery depends on strong federal protections. Any attempt to weaken these protections would be deeply concerning. Conservation of these seals benefits the environment and local economies.
Coral Reefs: Bleaching and Devastation (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
Coral reefs are the “rainforests of the ocean” because of their biodiversity. They face numerous threats, with warming waters being one of the biggest. Warming waters cause coral bleaching and death. This results in the loss of crucial habitat for hundreds of other species. Climate change, exacerbated by Trump’s policies, will devastate coral reefs.
Sea Level Rise: Coastal Ecosystems Under Siege
Trump has suggested sea-level rise would just create more oceanfront property. This stance shows a disregard for the severity of the issue. Rising oceans destroy habitats of coastal species. Key deer and sea turtles face uncertain futures due to these rising sea levels. Moreover, flooding beaches also threaten sea turtle reproduction rates.
A Wider Crisis: Impacts on People and Nature
Hundreds of other species face threats from rising sea levels. Coastal flooding is already affecting communities. Mangroves and seagrasses, vital for protection against coastal flooding, are at risk. The second Trump administration will likely worsen these problems. The damage done over the next four years could have consequences lasting for many decades.
France Implements Dolphin Protection Fishing Ban (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
January 22, 2025
(source: uk.news.yahoo.com- by RFI)

A new fishing ban in France’s Bay of Biscay starts this Wednesday. Approximately 300 fishing vessels will remain docked for one month. The goal of this action is to reduce the number of dolphins caught accidentally. This four-week ban on commercial fishing aims to protect the local dolphin population. The Council of State, France’s highest administrative court, ordered this ban. The measures will remain in effect until February 20th.
Positive Results and Continued Efforts
The French government initially implemented a similar ban last winter. This previous measure successfully reduced the accidental capture of dolphins by fourfold. This significant decrease encouraged authorities to implement a second ban. This time, roughly 300 fishing boats will remain in port. The affected area extends from western Brittany to the Spanish border. Therefore, these actions reflect a commitment to environmental preservation.
Financial Support for Affected Fishermen
The French government recognizes the impact of the ban on fishing communities. They will cover 80% of the affected fishermen’s revenue during this period. This financial support helps offset the economic hardship. By providing this help, the government hopes to gain cooperation. It is important for the plan to succeed. Thus, the aim is to protect dolphins while also supporting fishermen.
Alarming Dolphin Death Tolls Prompt Action
For over a decade, accidental dolphin deaths have been a serious concern. The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) estimates up to 4,900 dolphins die every year. These deaths are due to accidental capture in fishing nets. The level of mortality is clearly not sustainable for dolphin populations. Such concerning statistics prompted both environmental groups and the EU to pressure France into taking more action.
EU Pressure and Future Fishing Restrictions
The European Commission initiated an infringement procedure against France. This was due to the high rates of dolphin mortality. In response, France is planning more extensive restrictions for 2025 and 2026. These plans will ban most vessels over eight meters in length. This unprecedented measure seeks to protect fish stocks from overfishing. It also extends protection to the dolphin population.
Historic Measure: Largest Ban Since WWII
The current fishing ban is historic for the Bay of Biscay. It is the largest of its kind since World War II. This demonstrates the French government’s seriousness in tackling environmental issues. The ban signifies a shift toward sustainable fishing practices. It also highlights the importance of biodiversity. Moreover, it shows a dedication to protecting marine life in the region.
Fishing Industry Pioneers Low-Carbon Transition (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
January 23, 2025
(source: nationalfisherman.com – by NF Staff)
The U.S. commercial fishing industry has launched a series of publications. These publications focus on transitioning to a low-carbon fishing fleet. This work emphasizes community-centered approaches to climate solutions. Those most impacted by climate change should lead the energy transition. This research highlights the importance of the fishing community’s involvement in creating solutions.
Fishermen Lead the Way: A Community-Driven Approach
The research spans two years and involves fishermen across Alaska, the West Coast, and New England. It outlines strategies and policies for a low-carbon future. Wild seafood harvesting already has a low carbon footprint. It plays a vital role in food security and coastal economies. Maritime clean energy solutions lag behind on-land innovations. This makes the fishing sector’s future uncertain.
Responding to Crisis: Fuel Prices and Policy Gaps (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
The project began in response to several events in 2022. Record-high fuel prices caused significant financial burdens for fishermen. This situation highlighted the vulnerability of the fishing fleet. Simultaneously, new state and federal policies emerged to promote clean energy. However, these policies did not specifically target the fishing industry’s energy needs.
Filling the Gap: A Framework for Change
Five researchers with ties to fishing communities have created an evidence-based framework. Their goal is to help the fishing industry advocate for a low-carbon fleet. They conducted interviews with over 150 fishermen and 30 experts. The resulting 18-volume report provides insights into various policy and technology options. This framework aims to empower fishermen to lead their energy transition.
Working-Class Leadership: A Campaign for Action
This research is part of the Fishery Friendly Climate Action Campaign. This initiative operates under the motto: “climate action led by people in boots, not people in suits.” The campaign fosters climate leadership among fishermen. It also promotes fishery-friendly climate solutions. These efforts are aimed at creating effective change.
Fishermen Face Climate Impacts: A Call to Action (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
Commercial fisherman Sarah Schumann emphasizes the importance of this work. She states that fishermen feel the impacts of climate change. These impacts include ocean acidification and warming-induced catch volatility. She underscores that the fishing community is capable of leading change. This research demonstrates their ability to find practical solutions.
Next Steps: Webinars, Fellowships, and Media
A webinar will be held on January 23 to share the research findings. It will also discuss future steps. Members of various sectors are invited to attend. Furthermore, fishing industry members can apply for fellowships. These fellowships will develop leaders and create action agendas. A 20-article series in National Fisherman will explore energy innovations.
Alaska Voices: Protecting a Vital Resource
Alaskan fishermen are actively pursuing decarbonization efforts. They recognize seafood’s low carbon footprint. They want to protect the planet and their fisheries. Native peoples have relied on Bristol Bay for thousands of years. Fishermen hope to continue this tradition sustainably. They emphasize the need for a carbon-free future.
West Coast Perspectives: A Commitment to the Future (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
West Coast fishermen also express their commitment. They see fishing as a calling and want to plan for the future. If fishermen do not lead this transition, solutions may not work for them. This research is crucial for preserving maritime heritage. Additionally, it allows fisheries to move towards sustainability.
New England Voices: Collaboration and Resilience
New England fishermen emphasize collaboration and resilience. They understand the importance of their communities. They want to use their knowledge and skills to address climate change. High fuel costs and climate volatility are threats to their livelihood. This research offers a path for the fishing community to lead the change.
Fishermen Unite: A Shared Vision for Sustainability
Fishermen across the country agree on the importance of ocean health. They believe they have the biggest incentive to address climate change. They want to ensure a healthy marine environment for future generations. This work is a testament to their commitment to the planet. It showcases their dedication to a sustainable future.
Addressing Systemic Issues: Management and Emissions (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
Fishermen also want the federal management to consider its role in carbon production. They point out that they are often required to travel long distances to deliver fish. This long travel causes unnecessary emissions. They want to see change that will benefit both the planet and the fishing industry.
Preserving a Way of Life: A Call for Support
Fishing is more than just a job. It is a way of life. It supports families and communities. Fishermen want to ensure the oceans remain clean for the future. They are also working toward fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Therefore, they hope for partnerships with the public and policymakers to address these critical issues.
MLF Launches 2025 Phoenix Fantasy Fishing Game (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
January 24, 2025
(source: majorleaguefishing.com – by MLF • Press Releases)
Major League Fishing (MLF) has announced the 2025 Phoenix Fantasy Fishing game. This game will give fans an exciting new way to engage with professional bass fishing. The free game lets participants choose anglers for each tournament. Participants will then compete for exciting prizes. This initiative creates more interaction between fans and the sport.
How to Play: Selecting Your Dream Team
The 2025 Phoenix Fantasy Fishing game is now open. Legal residents of the U.S. who are over 18 may participate. Players can register at FantasyFishing.com. They will choose ten anglers to build their team. They select five anglers from Flight 1 and five from Flight 2. The goal is to select anglers with the highest combined weight of fish. Therefore, players will need to make strategic choices.
Making Your Picks: Entry and Updates
Players will need to submit their picks before each tournament starts. The first event, the Bass Pro Tour Stage 1 at Lake Conroe, has an entry deadline of 7:45 a.m. CT on January 30, 2025. Participants can update their selections anytime. They must update before the entry period ends. All changes must be saved by clicking ‘update team’. Players need to double-check their choices prior to the event’s start.
Scoring and Prizes: Competing for Top Honors (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
The game determines scores by the combined weight of fish caught by chosen anglers. The player with the highest total weight will win a Major League Fishing Bait Prize Pack at each event. The season-long winners of each game will receive a Tackle Warehouse Prize Pack valued at over $1,500. In the event of a tie, the player closest to predicting the tournament champion’s catch weight will win.
Engage and Win: Interactive Fan Experience
Fantasy Fishing offers an interactive way to follow the tournaments. Fans can root for their favorite anglers. Players can track their team’s performance throughout the tournament. This approach creates a competition among fans. Leaderboards and updates will be available for each event. This increases the excitement surrounding the 2025 MLF season.
Join the Action: Register and Start Playing
Registration is now open at FantasyFishing.com. Fans should not miss the chance to make their selections. There are many opportunities to win exciting fishing prizes. Players accumulate points throughout the season, so more participation leads to more chances to win. Therefore, fans should join the action now.
2025 Season Launch: Bass Pro Tour and Invitationals (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
The 2025 Bass Pro Tour season starts January 30 at Lake Conroe in Texas. The Tackle Warehouse Invitationals season starts on February 21 in Kissimmee, Florida. These events will provide the first opportunities for fans to test their fantasy fishing skills. Each tournament will offer a chance to compete for the top scores.
Stay Updated: Follow MLF on Social Media
For more information about Major League Fishing, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. Fans can also find updates on MLF’s social media channels. You can also follow MLF on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube for photos and tournament news. Therefore, staying connected will enhance your fan experience.
A Looming Crisis: EU Fisheries at a Crossroads (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
January 25, 2025
(source: themunicheye.com – by ?)
The European Union confronts a grave fisheries crisis. This situation poses a major threat to both the environment and also the economy. Therefore, experts warn that without immediate action fish populations face serious danger. Furthermore, the livelihoods of people depending on fishing are also in jeopardy. Consequently, the future looks grim.
The Perfect Storm: Causes of Stock Depletion
Overfishing dramatically reduced fish stock across Europe. Climate change exacerbates these problems. Pollution further contributes to this decline. Reports show many species are harvested at an unsustainable rate. This leads to a significant imbalance in marine ecosystems. This also affects the biodiversity of marine life. All these factors put the fishing industry at risk.
Delays and Misplaced Optimism: A Dangerous Stance
Some policymakers tend to show misplaced optimism. They do not fully acknowledge the crisis’s severity. Instead, discussions focus on future solutions. This delays the critical, urgent reforms needed. Critics say this approach is incredibly dangerous. Thus, they emphasize the need for immediate interventions. Indeed, inaction can cause severe, irreversible damage.
Essential Steps: Implementing Effective Solutions (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
Experts stress the importance of stricter fishing quotas. Also, they emphasize the need for enhanced monitoring. We must also increase funding for research projects. This will give a better understanding of sustainable practices. Furthermore, collaboration among EU members is critical. Thus, they must establish a unified, long-term strategy.
A Greener Path: Transitioning to Sustainable Practices
The EU must prioritize a transition to greener practices. The fishing and aquaculture sectors have to adapt. Therefore, they need to adopt technologies that reduce environmental impacts. It’s also important to promote practices that protect marine life. This shift will aid in the recovery of fish populations. This will also foster a more resilient fishing industry.
A Call for Unity: Collaborative Efforts and Action (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
Discussions on EU fisheries policy continue, and urgency has never been greater. Stakeholders from all groups must come together. Environmental groups, fishermen, and policymakers, must participate. They must forge a comprehensive plan. This plan will address both the economic and ecological facets of the crisis.
Beyond Optimism: A Time for Concrete Action
Optimism is good, yet it should not overshadow action. Indeed, the time for complacency is over. The EU needs to take decisive steps now. This will ensure the sustainability of this crucial resource. Ultimately, concrete actions now will safeguard the future of European fisheries.
Portugal’s Fishing Sector: A Need for Crew (Fishing News 20250120-20250126)
January 26, 2025
(source: theportugalnews.com – by TPN/Lusa)
The Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries addressed the plenary session. He declared that fisheries are a vital sector for Portugal. However, he stressed vessels require enough crew to operate properly. Therefore, the government requested authorization to change legislation. This will allow for more foreign workers in the industry. Indeed, this measure is very important.
Impending Losses: The Risk of Inaction
Without changes, many vessels may have to stop operating. This could affect between ten and fifteen percent of the fleet this year. This situation would cause a loss of 35 to 40 million euros in revenue. The minister explained that the proposal meets sector demands. It seems that urgent action is critical to avoid these losses.
Foreign Seafarers: An Essential Workforce
Currently, many vessels rely on foreign seafarers. Over sixty percent of them now need non-national crews. The current law limits non-EU or non-Portuguese speaking crew members to 40%. This restriction poses a significant challenge. Therefore, the need for change has become very clear.
Proposed Changes: Expanding Exceptions for Foreign Workers
The new law will maintain the 40% limit, but will expand exceptions. Agreements with other nations will play an essential part. This will facilitate recognition of certifications. This tackles an ongoing problem for workers. Additionally, these measures will allow more workers.
Longer Contracts: Increased Stability for Crews
The proposal extends each crew member’s category period. They can now remain for five years instead of three. Currently, some crew members who couldn’t advance had to be fired. This change will provide greater stability and security. This will also be good for the sector as a whole.
Labour Shortages: A Challenge for the Sector
A Member of Parliament admitted that the maritime sector faces a concerning labor shortage. Data shows a decline of over ten percent since 2018. The country previously had 16,000 fishermen. Consequently, this lack of personnel raises serious concerns. Thus, action is necessary.
Criticisms and Alternatives: Concerns about Immigration
Another MP criticized the measure, accusing the government of not making fishing attractive. That MP called for incentives to employ Portuguese citizens. Instead of increasing immigration into the sector, he preferred to see support for nationals. This approach, he believed, would prevent harm to the industry. Furthermore, this action would support local workers.