📏 UK Sea Fishing Size Limits & Bag Limits (Updated 2025 Guide)
🎣 Introduction
Understanding size limits and bag limits is crucial for every UK sea angler. These regulations protect juvenile fish, help maintain healthy populations, and keep you fishing legally.
In this guide, you’ll find a clear summary of the most common size and bag limits, tips on how to measure your catch correctly, and advice on regional differences.
⚖️ Why Size and Bag Limits Matter
Minimum size limits (MLS) ensure young fish have a chance to mature and reproduce before being caught. Bag limits restrict the number of fish you can keep per day, preventing overfishing.
Following these rules is essential to support sustainable fishing and avoid fines.
🐟 Common UK Sea Fish Size and Bag Limits
| Species | Minimum Size (cm) | Daily Bag Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Bass | 42 | 2 | Open season varies, check local |
| Mackerel | 20 (30 in North Sea) | None nationally | Local limits may apply |
| Cod | Varies by region | Varies by region | Seasonal restrictions apply |
| Pollock | 30 | No limit | |
| Wrasse | None nationally | Varies by species | Some species protected |
| Flatfish* | Varies by species | Varies | Includes plaice, flounder, sole |
*Check species guides for detailed info.
👉 Download our full UK Shore Fishing Species Identification & Regulations Guide for detailed limits by species.
📏 How to Measure Your Catch Correctly
Measuring fish accurately is key to complying with size limits.
- Use a rigid fish measuring board or ruler laid flat on a firm surface.
- Measure from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail fin (excluding fillet cuts).
- For flatfish, measure the longest length including the body and tail fin.
- Always handle fish gently to avoid injury, especially if you plan to release it.
Gear Tip: A durable, waterproof fish ruler or measuring board is an essential tool for every angler. Here are a few popular options that make measuring simple and reliable:
- 🐟 Flexible fish ruler tape — perfect for quick measurements and easy storage.
- 📏 Hard plastic measuring boards with clear markings, designed for fish up to 60cm or more.
- ⚖️ Multi-use digital scales with measuring tape included for weight and length.
🌍 Regional Differences & Local Rules
Regulations can vary across the UK depending on local IFCAs and specific bylaws. Some areas may have:
- ➕ Additional size or bag restrictions
- 🚫 Seasonal closures or closed areas
- 📝 Gear restrictions or permit requirements
Always check your local IFCA website before fishing. Some IFCAs publish detailed guides or maps to help anglers stay compliant.
🎒 Other Useful Gear for Compliance
Keeping legal while fishing also means being prepared with the right gear:
- 🥅 Landing nets with soft mesh reduce harm to fish during catch and release.
- 🎣 Barbless hooks or hooks with flattened barbs make releasing fish easier and safer.
- 🧤 Fishing handling gloves protect your hands and fish’s slime coat during handling.
✅ Final Thoughts
Staying within size and bag limits protects fish stocks and ensures that UK sea fishing remains sustainable and enjoyable. Accurate measuring and awareness of local rules make compliance easy and stress-free.
Be a responsible angler and always check regulations before you head out.
🎯 Next Steps
- 📥 Download our full species identification & regulations guide
- 🐠 Read our species guides for detailed limits and ID tips
- 🌍 Check your local IFCA website for area-specific rules
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