Scotland's Future Catching Policy: Selectivity Proposals Consultation 2026
As a result of FCP technical workshops and stakeholder engagement, and following on from our review of current technical measures, innovations, and best practises, the Scottish Government are proposing a number of changes to technical and management measures across Scottish waters.
Open
59 days to respond
Respond online
1. Glossary of Terms
FCP
Future Catching Policy
TAC
Total Allowable Catch
Stocks
Populations of specific species of fish
Bycatch
Incidental catches of unwanted fish and non-fish species
Discards
Bycatch which is returned to the sea
The Strategy
Scotland’s Fisheries Management Strategy
Tech Con
Technical Conservation Measures (i.e. net regulations)
SSI
Scottish Statutory Instrument (i.e. secondary or delegated legislation)
Selectivity
The ability of fishing gear to avoid bycatch
Demersal
The area or species’ on or close to the sea bed
Trawl
Nets that are actively towed behind a fishing vessel
Gear
Fishing equipment (e.g. nets)
Directed Fishery
A fishery targeting non-whitefish species (e.g. Nephrops)
Nephrops
Otherwise known as Prawn (Langoustines or Norway Lobster)
AIS
Automatic Identification System (usually via satellite)
UK BMP
UK Bycatch Monitoring Plan
REM
Remote Electronic Monitoring
Pinger
Acoustic Deterrent Device
Gill Net
Static nets that are deployed in a curtain and left to fish
Long lines
Static lines with baited hooks that are deployed and left to fish
Creels
Chambers with entrance holes on the side that are deployed on the seabed and left to fish – usually for Crab, Lobster and Nephrops
Pots
Chambers with an entrance on the top that are deployed on the seabed and left to fish – usually for Whelks
Landing Obligation
Requires that all fish subject to quota limits are landed unless subject to an exemption
12nm Line
Scotland’s inshore waters extend out to 12 nautical miles (NM), with a concentration of fishing taking place within 6 NM. Anything outside 12nm is considered “offshore”
Whitefish
Several species of demersal fish (e.g. Cod, Haddock, Whiting)
Groundfish
Several species of benthic fish (e.g. Witches, Sole, Monkfish)
Haul by Haul Reporting
A requirement for fishers to electronically log their catch after every haul
Square Mesh Panel
A large square mesh panel sewed into the top of a net to allow fish to escape
Contact
Email: fcpconsultation@gov.scot