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🛑 Protected & Prohibited Species in UK Seas (2025 Guide)

🎣 Introduction

Protected & Prohibited Species in UK Seas - Endangered European eel

While many fish in UK seas can be caught and kept within legal limits, some species are protected by law. These fish must be released immediately if caught, regardless of size or condition.

This guide explains which species are protected, why these rules exist, and how anglers should handle accidental catches to stay compliant and support conservation.

🐠 Why Are Some Species Protected?

Protection measures exist to:

  • 🛡️ Prevent the extinction of vulnerable species
  • 🐟 Allow threatened populations to recover
  • 🌊 Maintain biodiversity in marine ecosystems
  • ✅ Ensure sustainable fishing for future generations

🦈 Common Protected Species in UK Seas

The following species (or groups of species) are protected under UK law and must be released immediately if caught:

🦈 Sharks, Skates, and Rays

Many shark species (such as tope and spurdog) and certain skates/rays (e.g., common skate) are fully protected.

  • ❗ Retention is illegal.
  • 📌 Handle with care and release quickly.

🐍 European Eel

  • Listed as critically endangered.
  • ❗ It is illegal to retain or kill European eels.

🐠 Wrasse in Marine Protected Areas

  • Some wrasse species are protected in specific reserves.
  • Always check local restrictions before fishing.

🐬 Marine Mammals & Rare Species

  • Dolphins, porpoises, and other marine mammals are fully protected.
  • While rarely caught by anglers, report any accidental entanglements to authorities.

👉 A complete protected species list with legal references will be added to our downloadable PDF soon.

🧰 Handling Protected Fish Safely

If you accidentally catch a protected species:

  • 🎣 Do not remove it from the water unless necessary for unhooking.
  • 🖐️ Use wet hands or a soft landing net to prevent damage.
  • 🪝 Remove hooks gently or cut the line close to the hook if removal is unsafe.
  • 🐟 Support the fish horizontally if lifting briefly for release.
  • 🚀 Release it promptly back into the sea.

Gear Tip: Tools like long-nose fishing pliers, de-hookers, and barbless hooks make safe release easier.

📜 Legal References & Enforcement

Protected species regulations in UK seas are enforced by:

  • DEFRA and MMO at the national level
  • IFCAs at the local level

Fines or prosecution can follow illegal retention of a protected species.
📌 Always check current legislation and local bylaws before fishing.

🌱 Why This Matters for Conservation

Releasing protected species isn’t just a legal requirement — it’s a direct contribution to conservation. Many of these fish are slow-growing and reproduce late in life, making them highly vulnerable to overfishing.

By returning them safely, you help safeguard the UK’s marine biodiversity.

✅ Final Thoughts

Knowing which species are protected in UK seas is essential for responsible sea fishing. Always release these fish unharmed and report any unusual catches to the relevant authorities.

Fishing responsibly ensures that future generations can enjoy the same waters and species we do today.

🎯 Next Steps

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