HIBAPRESS – MAP
The Secretariat of State for Maritime Fisheries announced on Thursday its decision to close the southern zone (Stock C) to fishing until the end of June, in the face of all types of vessels licensed to fish small pelagic fish, in order to protect this area where young sardines are concentrated in depths of less than 50 meters.
The Secretariat of State explained, in a statement, that "in light of the results of the scientific follow-up carried out by the National Institute of Fisheries Research, the evaluation process of the small pelagic fish stock in the southern zone (Stock C) showed a noticeable dominance of young sardines, with a high percentage of individuals that have not yet reached the size corresponding to the stage of sexual maturity. The results of this evaluation have been reinforced by data from vessels operating in these areas since the start of the fishing season on February 16, 2026." The same source added that this situation is due to fluctuations in biomass levels due to hydro-climatic conditions, especially temperature changes, and their repercussions on spawning periods and stock renewal, noting that the acoustic campaign launched by the National Institute of Fisheries Research enabled the identification of a marine area that exclusively contains young sardines, concentrated at depths of less than fifty meters. The statement confirmed that in the face of the risks associated with the excessive intensive exploitation of this immature category, particularly reducing the stock's ability to renew itself, the Secretariat of State decided to adopt strict emergency measures. The statement concluded that these measures, which were taken in consultation with the concerned professionals who were informed of the stock situation and the need to take the necessary measures to protect the sardine stock and preserve investments, will reduce fishing pressure, help the growth of immature individuals and raise their chances of survival, and thus contribute to the reconstitution of the biomass of the stock in the southern zone, and ensure the sustainability of its exploitation in the medium and long term.
