European Commission plans to halve cod bycatch quotas in the Baltic Sea

The European Commission has put forward a proposal to sharply reduce bycatch limits for Eastern Baltic cod in the Baltic Sea. Under the plan, the permitted volume of cod bycatch would be cut in half compared to current levels.

Bycatch refers to fish caught unintentionally while fishing for other species. Because cod often end up in nets alongside other target species, it is treated as bycatch in cases where it is not the intended catch.

Impact on Kurzeme fishermen

According to broadcaster TV Kurzeme, the proposed changes could significantly affect fishermen in South Kurzeme, specifically in Liepāja and Pāvilosta. Around 20 commercial fishermen currently operate in the region, and the quota reduction would make fishing more difficult for them.

A cut to cod bycatch quotas would mean that fishermen who primarily target other fish species would need to adjust their operations to the new restrictions. Fishing organizations have already voiced concerns about how such limits would affect the viability of the industry in the region.

The European Commission's proposal still requires approval, and the specific scope of the restrictions may change during further negotiations between European Union member states and institutions.