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The maritime sector is calling for an immediate review of the government's decision, and the opening of a balanced dialogue between authorities, scientists and users to reconcile ecological preservation with the economic and social continuity of coastal activities.
Key points of the protest
Lack of consultation : the decision was reportedly announced in the press before any formal dialogue with representatives of the fishing and shipping industries.
Economic impact : recreational fishing is worth some 3 to 4 billion euros a year in France, including around 30 million for mackerel. The industry fears immediate consequences for fishing tackle manufacturers, ports, tourism and coastal jobs.
Proportion deemed excessive : according to the organizations, recreational fishing accounts for only a small proportion of mackerel catches, compared with industrial fishing. No scientific study has shown that halving the quota (from 10 to 5) would have a measurable effect on the resource.
The proposals
- Temporarily return to 10 fish per day per angler for the 2026 season.
- Use this year as an observation phase, based on data from the RecFishing application, which tracks catches by recreational anglers.
- Open a national consultation after the 2026 season to establish a sustainable, scientifically-supported regulation involving all stakeholders.
The signatory organizations
- GIFAP (Groupement de l'Industrie Française d'Articles de Pêche)
- FIN (Nautical Industries Federation)
- CNP (Confédération du Nautisme et de la Plaisance)
- CML (Confédération Mer & Liberté).
