Publication of the 2026 eel catch limits and landing sizes
Date published:
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is continuing work to finalise the 2026 eel catch limits and maximum landing size requirements for Lough Neagh. Publication of the final measures will now take place later in April to allow the Department to complete essential engagement with key stakeholders and ensure all relevant evidence is fully considered.
Each year, DAERA is required to determine annual catch limits and publish a maximum landing size for eels. These measures are central to supporting the long‑term recovery of European eel, a critically endangered species, while recognising the cultural and economic importance of the Lough Neagh fishery. DAERA has powers to set catch limits and a maximum landing size each year if required to manage eel stocks. Given the significance of these decisions the Department has decided to delay the decision for a short period to seek further views from stakeholders, including the Lough Neagh Fishermens Co‑operative Society (LNFCS), following receipt of scientific advice from the Agri‑Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).
This engagement will help ensure that the Department’s final determination reflects all relevant considerations, including conservation obligations, scientific advice, and the socio‑economic context for the fishery. The Department is keeping the situation under close review to avoid any unnecessary delay and will provide an update as soon as the final determinations are made.
European eel populations continue to face severe pressure across their natural range, and recent international advice highlights that all human‑related eel mortality should be reduced as far as possible. Lough Neagh has a long history of active participation in conservation and stock‑enhancement measures, and the Department remains committed to working collaboratively with the sector to support long‑term stock recovery.
The Department expects to publish the 2026 catch limit and maximum landing size on its website later in April, once this important engagement has concluded.