Crab and lobster FMP – Fisheries Management Plans

Lobster size rules are changing – here’s what you need to know

Shellfish FMP policy team, Defra, 11 December 2025 - - Defra led FMPs, Implementation

The lobster MCRS will increase to 90mm in the South West in March 2026 and phased in at 1mm/year in the rest of English waters.

Minimum brown crab size backed by South West fishermen

Fisheries Management Team, Marine Management Organisation, 11 December 2025 - Implementation

The minimum size will be changing on 1 February 2026 to protect stocks and make fishing clearer and fairer across the region.

Crab and lobster FMP explained: goals, benefits and updates

Regional Fisheries Groups team, Marine Management Organisation, 17 September 2025 - - Defra led FMPs, Implementation

Learn about the crab and lobster FMP, its goals, and latest updates through new infographics and video from the MMO and RFGs.