🌊 Northumberland IFCA Sea Fishing Regulations (2025)
The Northumberland IFCA region stretches from the Scottish border down to the River Tyne, featuring rugged coastline, rocky marks, and sandy stretches ideal for both shore and boat anglers. Cod, bass, and pollack are among the prime targets here.
Below are the minimum sizes, bag limits, and protected species based on the latest national and local regulations. Always double-check the official IFCA site before fishing.
✅ Key Fishing Rules for Northumberland IFCA
| Species | Min Size | Bag Limit | Season | 🎣 Lure Caught? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bass | 42cm | 2/day (outside Feb–Mar) | Catch & release Feb–Mar | ✅ |
| Cod | 35cm | None | Open | ✅ |
| Sole | 24cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Haddock | 30cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Hake | 27cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Herring | 20cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Horse Mackerel | 15cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Ling | 63cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Mackerel | 30cm (North Sea) | None | Open | ✅ |
| Plaice | 27cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Pollack | 30cm | None | Open | ✅ |
| Saithe | 35cm | None | Open | ✅ |
| Sardine | 11cm | None | Open | ❌ |
| Whiting | 27cm | None | Open | ❌ |
🐟 Protected Species
The following species must be released immediately if caught:
- Tope (must be returned; no parts can be kept)
- Angel Shark (protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act)
- White Skate (protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act)
- Allis Shad (protected)
- Twaite Shad (protected)
- Giant Goby (protected)
- Couch’s Goby (protected)
- Bluefin Tuna (strictly protected; catch & release only under licensed programs)
📌 Local Restrictions
No additional local restrictions are listed at this time. However, seasonal closures or byelaws may apply, so always check before fishing.
🔗 Official Source: Northumberland IFCA Website
⚠️ Disclaimer
These regulations are correct to the best of our knowledge. They can change, so always consult the official IFCA website.