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The regulatory landscape for fishing in France is changing for the shellfish . Two orders published in the Official Journal on January 13, 2026 modify the minimum catch sizes for the tourteau ( Cancer pagurus ) and bouquet ( Palaemon serratus ). These changes apply without distinction to professional and recreational fishing including on foot.
Standardization to 15 cm for cake
The most striking measure concerns the edible crab, an emblematic crustacean of our Atlantic and Channel coasts. Until recently, the minimum catch size varied according to the zone: 13 cm south of the 48th parallel, and 14 to 15 cm to the north. This territorial differentiation made it difficult for fishermen and recreational boaters to understand the rules.
With the entry into force of the new regulations, the mesh size is now 15 cm for the entire Atlantic, Channel and North Sea coastline. This standardization meets two requirements: to simplify the regulatory framework and to reinforce the protection of juvenile fish. This approach is in line with worrying decline in oilcake stocks in recent years particularly in the Atlantic sector, where landings fell sharply.
Size is measured maximum shell width this barrier is placed at right angles to the anteroposterior median line. Any fish below this barrier must be returned to the water immediately.
The bouquet: 5 cm across the board
For the bouquet, a small coastal shrimp that is highly prized by both shore and boat fishermen, the minimum catch size is set at 5 cm all along the coast. Until now, this rule was limited to certain regions, notably Brittany and Normandy.
The new decree abolishes previous geographical indications. The 5 cm rule now applies without distinction to both professional and recreational fishing. This harmonization makes it easier for those involved in the fishing industry to apply the rules.
Immediate entry into force and a clearer framework
The two orders have been published january 13, 2026 at Official Journal and enter effective immediately from january 14, 2026 . They respectively modify the texts of 2012 (recreational fishing) and 2013 (professional fishing) which set minimum catch sizes for marine organisms.
Harmonizing these meshes appears to be an important step in the sustainable management of fishery resources . It clarifies the regulatory framework for all anglers, both professional and amateur, on the entire coastline of mainland France.
