The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is working hard to improve its knowledge and build a collaborative approach to managing the English whelk fishery as part of the whelk fisheries management plan (FMP) for English waters.
Improving data collection and understanding
We still have a lot to learn about English whelk stocks. To meet the requirements of the whelk FMP to improve our understanding of the English whelk fishery and its stocks, the MMO is working hard to understand fishing effort, mainly by looking at the number of pots used. This information will help with stock assessments.
Permit scheme
The FMP proposes the introduction of a permit scheme to fish whelks in English waters. We need stakeholder input on views for the scheme to develop potential options.
Get involved
We’re heading out across the South and South West to speak directly with the people who know the fishery. These informal drop‑in sessions are a chance to talk face‑to‑face about what’s really happening on the water and what would work for the fleet.
Here’s what we’re looking to do together:
- Get your insight on pot number reporting — what works, what doesn’t, and how we can make the system more practical for skippers and crews.
- Hear your views on the proposed whelk permit scheme — the good, the bad, and any options you think should be on the table. Your experience is crucial in shaping something that’s fair and workable.
Come along, have a chat, and help make sure the decisions being made reflect the reality of the fishery.
📍 Where you will find us
Monday 2 March 2026
- Newlyn 10:00am to 11:30am - CFPO, 46 Fore Street TR18 5JR
- Plymouth 3:30pm to 5:00pm - The Ship, The Barbican PL1 2JZ
Tuesday 3 March 2026
- Brixham 10:00am to 11:30am - Brixham Trawler Agents Ltd, New Fish Quay, Brixham TQ5 8AW
- Lyme Regis 3:00pm to 4:30pm - Fishing College, Harbour Entrance, The Cobb DT7 3JJ
Wednesday 4 March 2026
- Weymouth 10:30am to 12:00pm – The Ship Inn Custom House Quay, DT4 8BE
- Poole 2:30pm to 4:00pm - MMO Poole, The Quay BH15 1HP
Thursday 5 March 2026
- Portsmouth 9:30am to 11:00am - Farmhouse Innlodge Hotel, Burrfields Road PO3 5HH
- Shoreham-by-Sea 2:30pm to 4:00pm - Sussex Yacht Club, 85/89 Brighton Road BN43 6RF
Friday 6 March 2026
- Eastbourne 9:00am to 10:00am - Eastbourne CIC, Fishermans Quay, Atlantic Drive BN23 5UY
- Hastings 1:00pm to 2:30pm - RNLI Lifeboat Station, The Stade, Rock-a-Nore Road TN34 3FJ
For more information contact fmp@marinemanagement.org.uk
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