Cornwall’s Crab and Lobster Stocks Under Threat – Can This New Byelaw Save Them?

A proposed byelaw could be the first step in reining in the overfishing of crab and lobster stocks within Cornwall’s six-mile limit. Cornwall Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) is currently consulting on a measure that would restrict the size of vessels fishing for crab and lobster, while also prohibiting vivier boats – vessels equipped with underdeck water-filled tanks that allow them to carry vast amounts of shellfish.

Why Is This Byelaw Needed?

Cornwall’s crab and lobster fishery has been operating without sufficient controls, with no current limits on the number of pots that can be deployed. This lack of regulation has led to declining brown crab landings per unit effort, leaving fishers increasingly concerned about the future sustainability of the fishery.

A small number of large-scale ‘super crabber’ boats have been able to deploy significant amounts of gear and fish all year round, placing excessive pressure on crab and lobster stocks. In contrast, the proposed byelaw aims to limit the damage caused by these larger operations and help stabilise the industry for the many smaller crabbing boats operating in Cornish waters.

The Numbers Behind the Problem

Documents on the Cornwall IFCA website highlight the disparity between the six large vivier boats and the 150+ smaller crabbing boats currently operating in the region. According to the impact assessment, the larger boats are responsible for a massive proportion of landings and fishing effort, further illustrating the need for tighter controls.

Call for Public Support

With the consultation deadline set for 13th February, conservation groups, including Cornwall Wildlife Trust, are urging members of the public to show their support for the byelaw. There is concern that large shellfish companies, which operate the vivier boats, will strongly oppose the measure. To counter this, those in favour of protecting Cornwall’s crab and lobster stocks are being encouraged to make their voices heard.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust has submitted its response in support of the byelaw, outlining key points for consideration. Their full response can be viewed here.

The consultation and further details on the byelaw can be accessed on the Cornwall IFCA website.

With time running out, those concerned about the future of Cornwall’s shellfish stocks are being encouraged to take action before the deadline.