ICES advises "zero-catch" for key Celtic Sea stocks amid major decline

The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) published its fishing opportunities advice for 2026 on June 27, recommending a zero-catch level for cod, haddock, whiting, and herring stocks in the Celtic Sea.

The scientific body noted that the overview for the Celtic Seas ecoregion is "not positive," with many stocks declining due to reduced recruitment in recent years. For haddock, it is the first time a zero-catch advice has been issued. ICES warned this will have "serious consequences" for fishing communities.

“The situation in the Celtic Sea and Irish Sea is particularly concerning," said Colm Lordan, Chair of the ICES Advisory Committee. He added that while multiple factors are likely impacting the stocks' productivity, "fishing is not the only issue, but it is the only factor we can control to give these stocks the best chance of recovery."

The outlook was more positive for other regions. In the North Sea, stocks of haddock, whiting, and plaice continue to do well. In the Bay of Biscay and off the Iberian coast, many stocks have biomass close to historic highs. ICES noted that its advice for four other stocks will be delayed until the autumn.