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The limit of five mackerel per day for recreational fishermen continues to provoke political reactions. Seventeen members of parliament from various French coastal areas have written to the Minister for the Sea and Fisheries, Catherine Chabaud, to express their concerns about the new regulations.
A decision deemed too quick
In their letter dated February 23, the parliamentarians explain that they have been "approached by numerous fishermen" regarding the rapid introduction of quotas for recreational mackerel fishing. They acknowledge the delicate situation of the stock and the international tensions surrounding the resource, but question the method employed.
According to them, professional fishermen are used to quota variations, while amateur fishermen are suddenly faced with stricter regulations. The elected representatives believe that the rapid succession of announcements and constraints can be difficult for the general public to understand.
The disputed 5-fish rule
The deputies are particularly critical of the uniform "per day, per person" limit. In their view, this model is not necessarily the most appropriate. Recreational fishing practices vary greatly from region to region and from user to user. Some fish very occasionally, while others go out more regularly.
They therefore suggest looking into alternatives, such as the introduction of an annual or half-yearly quota, which would take better account of the diversity of practices.
A risk of rejection by fishermen
The signatories also stress the importance of education in the management of marine resources. For many recreational anglers, these new regulations are perceived as an additional restriction on their "little freedoms" associated with the sea.
The elected representatives believe that the acceptance of such measures depends on better consultation and the sharing of information clear statistical data on actual withdrawals . Without these elements, they warn, the measure risks being misunderstood by the millions of practitioners concerned.
Former fisheries minister among signatories
Among the 17 MPs is Stéphane Travert, former Minister for Fisheries. He knows the ins and outs of quotas and has privileged contact with decision-makers.
