Summertime brings many boating and fishing activities onto the water, one of which can bring confrontation between recreational and professional about which the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority has decided to “bring awareness” to recreational fishers of regulatory obligations.
There has always been “recreational fishing” for lobsters by those who “put out a few pots to catch a couple of lobster.”
But this can interfere with commercial fishermen, the professionals, for whom lobster catches are a source of income.
The SFPA points out that there is national legislation controlling pot fishing for lobsters and crab. Non-commercial fishing carried out by recreational vessels may only take place if there is no intention or attempt to sell or offer for reward what is
caught: “The catch may only be for personal consumption,” the SFPA warns. It also outlines closed season for crab species, protection of V-notched lobsters, daily catch allowance, pot limit and storage as well as requirements about marker buoys and ropes.
The marking of pots is important for safety. Every boating season there are reports of recreational craft caught in pot lines, often requiring lifeboat assistance. Any non-commercial fisherman planning to put out pots should take note.
The SFPA is available for guidance at: sfpafood&fisheriessupport@sfpa.ie
