Summer 2025
NIFCA NEWS
local work
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Bass Scale Project UK 30 by 30 Membership Changes North Shields 800 New MCZ Management Parliamentary Reception
national work
community outreach
wildlife news
contents 03 04 06 07 08
Welcome NIFCA Training Species Challenge 2024 Bass Scale Project Surveys Changes in Membership UK 30 by 30 Trawl Management in MCZ Work Experience Fisherman’s Remembrance Blue Planet: Newcastle Uni North Shields 800 Parliamentary Reception Stakeholder Events New Second Engineer
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Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority
8 Ennerdale Road, Blyth Northumberland NE24 4RT
01670 797676 nifca@nifca.gov.uk www.nifca.gov.uk
Northumberland IFCA
@N_IFCA
northumberland-ifca
nifca news summer 2025
welcome I’m pleased to introduce our Summer 2025 newsletter, offering an update on the Authority’s activities and key national developments in fisheries management, as well as highlighting the local work done in supporting national Fisheries Management Plans through our data collection. This period has once again proven to be both busy and pivotal within the evolving landscape of UK fisheries management. Marine conservation has gained fresh public attention with the release of ‘Ocean’, the new David Attenborough film for World Oceans Day. The documentary celebrates marine biodiversity while highlighting key pressures such as overfishing and bottom trawling, and it emphasises the potential for its recovery through conservation efforts within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Additionally, the UK’s 30x30 biodiversity strategy continues to gather momentum, aiming to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030. A Private Members’ Bill now in Parliament seeks to ban bottom trawling in all English MPAs, alongside a government consultation proposing further fishing restrictions across 41 offshore MPAs, potentially covering 30,000 km ² . These developments, combined with accelerating offshore wind deployment, are intensifying the “spatial squeeze” faced by the fishing industry. Within our district, we remain committed to managing bottom towed gear in MPAs to strike a careful balance: supporting a viable and sustainable fishing industry, while meeting our statutory conservation duties.
We hope this edition deepens your understanding of Northumberland IFCA’s work. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on our work.
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Training local work
nifca news summer 2025
In recent months, NIFCA officers have taken part in a wide range of essential training to enhance safety and professionalism. This included two RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) handling sessions: one took place with the MMO and RNLI, focusing on emergency procedures and vessel control in challenging conditions, and another was an accredited session with Kent and Essex IFCA and the Police, providing formal certification in advanced boat handling. These were followed by three practical courses at South Tyneside Marine College: Sea Survival, Man Overboard, and Fire Fighting, all designed to prepare officers for the realities of working in hazardous marine environments and to ensure their safety and effectiveness while at sea. The Environmental Team also enhanced their expertise through a Nephrop burrow identification course, led by Cefas at the NIFCA office, deepening their knowledge of seabed habitats and monitoring techniques. They also supported crab and lobster sampling to monitor contaminants and disease, contributing to the national Coastal Health and Livelihood project and improving understanding of ecosystem health and species resilience. A major highlight was this year’s Annual Enforcement Training Course, which, for the first time, introduced a dedicated environmental training element. Officers separated into enforcement and environmental groups to focus on role-specific skills, with environmental sessions in part delivered by NIFCA’s own Lead Environmental Officer, Alex Aitken. This innovative approach reflects our commitment to integrated marine management, combining robust enforcement with advanced scientific knowledge to better protect local ecosystems. These diverse training opportunities not only strengthen practical skills but also build vital partnerships with other organisations, from Cefas to regional IFCAs, the marine police, and emergency services. By working together and continually investing in development, NIFCA ensures its officers remain highly skilled, adaptable, and ready to meet the evolving challenges of safeguarding our precious coastal environment, supporting local livelihoods, and promoting a sustainable future for generations to come. Training Together for Safer Seas and Stronger Coastal Protection
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local work
species challenge After months of fierce competition and fantastic fish submissions from sea anglers across the district, the NIFCA Species Challenge officially concluded in November and the winner was announced. Congratulations to Gavin, who was crowned the overall champion for 2024. With an outstanding total of 56 fish submissions over the course of the year, Gavin has demonstrated remarkable consistency and dedication to the challenge, earning himself the grand prize of £500. It’s been a thrilling ride, with exciting highlights along the way. September saw a tight race that came down to a tiebreak draw, and once again, Gavin’s name came out on top. October followed suit with Gavin maintaining pole position, reinforcing his status as a formidable angler. Across the competition, we received an impressive range of entries including the first smelt of the year and popular catches like whiting, cod, and shanny. Monthly winners were rewarded with £50 tackle shop vouchers, but it’s Gavin who finishes the year on a high note. A huge thank you to everyone who took part and helped make the Species Challenge such a success. Whether you submitted one fish or fifty, your contributions showcased the incredible biodiversity in our district’s waters. We look forward to even more participation in the next competition - until then, tight lines! And the winner for 2024 is...
Species Challenge Winner
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nifca news summer 2025
Join the nifca Bass Scale Project
Northumberland IFCA is inviting anglers to take part in an exciting citizen science project to support the future of sea bass in our local waters. The Bass Scale Project aims to gather vital information about bass populations within the NIFCA district by collecting size and age data. This is essential for understanding how these fish grow, move, and interact with wider UK populations, which will help to fill evidence gaps in the national Bass Fisheries Management Plan (FMP). As bass grow, their scales form annual rings similar to tree rings, providing a record of their age and growth history. By simply measuring your catch and collecting a few scales (which will naturally regrow), you can help us build a
valuable dataset to inform sustainable management and conservation efforts. Every fish matters, no matter its size - even fish below minimum landing size provide important insights. Taking part is easy: measure the length and girth, carefully remove a few scales from the area near the pectoral fin, record the details, and return the fish to the water safely. Scales should then be sent to NIFCA in the provided envelope or dropped off directly. With your help, we can better protect bass stocks and ensure healthy fisheries for future generations. To learn more or request sampling materials, visit www.nifca.gov.uk or contact the team at nifca@nifca.gov.uk.
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local work
surveying our local seas Surveys conducted since January 2025
Since January, NIFCA officers have been busy monitoring marine habitats and species across our district. This year, a major new focus is the launch of a dedicated Nephrops (Norway lobster) survey using underwater video transects to count burrows on mud habitats. This method gives us clearer insights into stock levels and habitat condition, helping to shape sustainable, evidence- based management of this valuable fishery. Nephrops are a key commercial species in the North Sea, and understanding their distribution supports both conservation goals and local livelihoods. The Environmental team also carried out a combined Nephrops and periwinkle survey, supported by North Eastern IFCA, expanding our monitoring to intertidal habitats and this summer, they’ll also assist Marine Scotland with underwater TV surveys on prawn
burrows in the Firth of Forth and Devil’s Hole, strengthening regional data collection and partnerships, which also
supports the national nephrop Fisheries Management Plan development.
Elsewhere, officers and volunteers conducted juvenile fish surveys in the River Aln estuary and completed our annual mussel bed assessments at Blyth Estuary, Holy Island, and Fenham Flats, working with Natural England and a Newcastle University placement student and joined local boats to continue lobster and crab surveys, contributing to a valuable dataset built up since 2012. Together, these efforts reflect NIFCA’s commitment to protecting marine biodiversity, supporting coastal communities, and ensuring our seas remain healthy for the future.
Paul Naylor marine photo Image from
nifca news autumn 2024 nifca news summer 2025
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local work
Members a fond farewell After more than a decade of committed service, Ian Thomas retired from NIFCA on 12 May 2025. First appointed in May 2013, Ian joined the Authority with a wealth of knowledge and hands- on experience as a recreational angler. A lifelong angler, both from the shore and at sea, he brought invaluable insight to Authority discussions, particularly in relation to vessels, fishing practices and mechanical operations. Ian’s background as a time-served engineer and the former owner of a specialist fuel injection business in Blyth gave him a rare combination of technical skill and seafaring know-how. That expertise came into its own during a passage onboard St Aidan from the Tyne to Southampton, when engine problems emerged mid-voyage. Ian’s ability to quickly assess the situation enabled the crew to continue their journey and arrive at the event on time. It was one of many occasions where Ian’s calm, practical experience made a real difference. Ian is a well-known and respected figure in the fisher community, particularly in Amble, where he operates his sailing boat and continues to engage with fellow anglers and boaters. Commenting on Ian’s retirement, NIFCA Chief Officer Mark Southerton, said: “Ian’s contribution to the Authority has been outstanding. His combination of technical engineering experience, deep understanding of recreational fishing, and genuine passion for our coast has brought great value to our work. He has always been generous with his time and knowledge, and his presence will be greatly missed. From all of us at NIFCA we thank you, Ian, for your dedication, wisdom, and good humour over the years. We wish you the very best in your retirement.”
NIFCA Chair presents parting gift to Ian Thomas
nifca news summer 2025
nifca news autumn 2024
new members at nifca: Welcome to stu Harding
Stuart Harding became a full member following the retirement of Ian Thomas on May 12. A lifelong Northumberland resident, Stuart brings with him a deep- rooted connection to the county’s coastline and a strong commitment to sea angling. His appointment reflects NIFCA’s continued focus on representing all stakeholders involved in the sustainable use and management of inshore marine resources within its district. Stuart is a well-known figure in the local angling community. For the past four years, he has served on the committee of the New Ship Sea Angling (NSSA) club in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, actively participating in matches and promoting responsible angling practices. Stuart said: “I’m proud to be joining NIFCA as a representative of recreational sea anglers. I’ve lived in Northumberland all my life and the coast has always been close to my heart. “Sea angling is more than a hobby for me, it’s a way of life. I look forward to working with the Authority to ensure the voice of local anglers is heard and to protect the future of our marine environment.” Mark Southerton, Chief Officer at NIFCA, welcomed Stuart’s appointment: “We are delighted to have Stuart on board. His local knowledge, enthusiasm and clear dedication to sea angling will be a real asset.
“His appointment ensures that recreational anglers continue to be well represented in our decision- making, which is vital to the balanced and inclusive approach we take to inshore fisheries management.” Welcoming Additional Members: NIFCA has also been pleased to recently welcome four other new members to the Authority. Appointed by Northumberland County Council to represent their local wards, Councillors Les Bowman, Stephen Charles Flower and Karl Andrew Green joined NIFCA in May. In addition, NIFCA was pleased to welcome back Councillor Brian Burdis from North Tyneside Council. These appointments strengthen NIFCA’s commitment to a balanced representation of local interests, ensuring that voices from diverse coastal and fishing communities are included in shaping sustainable inshore fisheries management.
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nifca news summer 2025
national work
From Policy to Protection
The UK government, through Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), is working towards protecting 30% of England's land and sea by 2030 (30by30) to combat nature decline and improve biodiversity. This commitment aligns with the global 30by30 targets adopted at the UN Biodiversity Summit (COP15). The UK is actively working to meet this target through various
Fisheries can co-exist alongside and within MPAs where well managed in relation to the conservation objectives of the site. These fisheries, in the inshore waters of the NIFCA district, support the local coastal communities and contribute to essential high quality food security. Scallop dredging and beam trawling are prohibited in 100% of the district’s 1492km ² including the network of 10 MPAs. In addition bottom towed fishing gear closures within MPAs represents 40% of the district area, and further restrictions on trawling to limit the activity to low level using light gear in a further 13% of the district area. NIFCA remains committed to supporting Defra’s 30by30 goals by actively managing and protecting the region’s inshore marine environment. Through science-based policies, co-management with local stakeholders, and strict gear restrictions, such as the district- wide ban on scallop dredging and protection of reef habitats. NIFCA has already secured protections across more than 40% of its district. This work ensures that sustainable fishing and biodiversity conservation go hand in hand, safeguarding the health of marine ecosystems for future generations. Find out more at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ criteria-for-30by30-on-land-in-
initiatives and collaborations, including the Environmental Improvement Plan and the Environment Act 2021.
IFCAs are playing a role in this effort, particularly in managing and protecting coastal areas.
Coastal Management: IFCAs are Statutory Regulators and responsible for managing inshore fisheries and conserving the marine environment within their respective districts. Their role is crucial in supporting the marine 30by30 target, particularly in coastal areas, by implementing fisheries management measures within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Improving the effectiveness of IFCAs, including their funding, engagement, and monitoring, highlighted in a recent report ¹ is crucial for the success of 30by30. Bottom Towed Fishing Gear restrictions in the Northumberland IFCA District: Fishers are key custodians of sustainable marine environments and continue to work with Northumberland IFCA to ensure a viable fishing industry for current and future generations is maintained. The NIFCA Authority is made up of 21 members including stakeholders from the district and elected councillors who agree policies of management through a model of co management.
england/30by30-on-land-in-england- confirmed-criteria-and-next-steps
¹ Conduct and Operations Report 2018-2022
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local work
Trawling Management Measures in coquet to st marys MCZ
At a recent public meeting of NIFCA, members voted in favour of introducing new management measures for trawling within the Coquet to St Mary’s Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ). The decision to introduce an adaptive management plan aims to ensure that trawling can continue within the MCZ while incorporating additional measures to balance conservation efforts with the needs of the local fishing community. The byelaw requires permit holders to obtain an additional exemption to trawl within the MCZ and restricts gear types, allowing only light otter trawls within the MCZ. It also mandates that permit holders submit monthly reports detailing their fishing activity. Following recommendations from NIFCA’s Technical and Scientific subcommittee, members approved the proposed Coquet to St Mary’s Marine Conservation Zone Trawling Management Plan which establishes clear guidelines for the granting of trawling exemptions for permit holders to trawl in the MCZ.
Management measures include: Exemptions will be granted to fishing vessels with a permit and an active record for trawling in the MCZ during 2022. Exemptions require vessels to be fitted with a GPS tracker and gear sensor, which will be supplied and funded by NIFCA. Maximum annual cap of 1,000 trawling hours, based on 2022 activity levels, will serve as the threshold for 2025. Acknowledging concerns from fishers who do not qualify for exemptions, NIFCA remains committed to ensuring fairness in the transition to these new measures. The management plan will be reviewed annually, incorporating feedback and data to refine future strategies. NIFCA Chief Officer Mark Southerton, commented “This decision reflects our commitment to balancing sustainable fisheries with the protection of marine habitats. By implementing these adaptive management measures, we aim to support the inshore fishing fleet while ensuring the long-term health of the MCZ.”
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nifca news summer 2025
Work Experience placements This spring, NIFCA was proud to host two enthusiastic placement students: Kasim Mahedi Shariff and Oliver Clarke, each bringing a passion for the marine environment and a desire to learn more about fisheries governance and conservation. Kasim Mahedi Shariff (pictured below) is a Stage 2 Marine Biology student at Newcastle University. Kasim joined NIFCA to explore his keen interest in marine governance and the management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). During his placement, Kasim took part in a wide range of activities, from conducting mussel bed
Oliver Clarke measures a lobster
Oliver Clarke (pictured above) is a Year 12 student from Whitley Bay High School, the NIFCA placement was a dream come true. A lifelong fish enthusiast, Oliver wanted to spend his work experience immersed in the world of marine life, and NIFCA delivered! Over the course of his placement, Oliver supported a variety of core activities, including reviewing
Nephrops burrow footage, participating in land and sea patrols, in-putting lobster survey data, and assisting in the creation of trawling permits. One of his standout moments was measuring lobsters and helming the NIFCA Patrol Boat - an experience he won’t soon forget.
surveys at Holy Island and Fenham Flats, to analysing
regression data using RStudio and ArcGIS. He now hopes to continue his studies with a summer exchange in Hong Kong and ultimately pursue a governmental role focused on the creation and management of highly protected marine areas.
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Kasim Mahedi Shariff on Robert Arckless MBE
Community Outreach
NIFCA Pays Tribute
On Sunday, 12th May 2025, the Fishermen’s National Day of Remembrance was marked with a moving ceremony at the Fiddler’s Green Fishermen’s Memorial in North Shields. The event paid tribute to fishermen across the UK who have lost their lives at sea, with a heartfelt service attended by local communities, maritime organisations, and families of those lost. A new blue plaque was also unveiled at the Fishermen’s Mission to honour the enduring legacy of the fishing community. Representing the Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (NIFCA), officers Rick Willis and Emily O’Regan attended and laid a wreath in NIFCA’s distinctive teal and white colours. Their participation reflected the authority’s support for the fishing community and commitment to preserving the memory of those who have served and sacrificed. The day was a poignant reminder of the risks faced by fishermen, the resilience of coastal communities, and the importance of safeguarding maritime heritage while supporting safety at sea and the wellbeing of fishing families.
Charity Donations from Fishing Gear
NIFCA has successfully auctioned off three fleets of fishing pots that were seized earlier this year due to non-compliance with byelaws. The auction raised a total of £4,450, with all proceeds being donated to support local maritime charities. The first donation of £2,225 was presented on 31 July to the North Shields Fishermen’s Mission. Superintendent Peter Dade accepted the cheque on behalf of the Mission, which provides vital support to fishermen and their families. The remaining funds are being donated to the RNLI, with Berwick station selected as the lucky recipient. The station was chosen at random by Mary, a volunteer from Newbiggin Maritime Centre, and will be presented with their cheque in the coming weeks. Mark Southerton, Chief IFCO at NIFCA, said: "We’re pleased that funds raised through the sale of non- compliant gear can now benefit organisations that do so much for our coastal communities. Supporting the Fishermen’s Mission and the RNLI is a fitting way to ensure that these seized items are put to good use."
nifca news summer 2025
nifca news autumn 2024
inspiring future Coastal Conservation Careers
NIFCA was delighted to take part in the Blue Planet event at Newcastle University, a dynamic careers and networking showcase aimed at students pursuing degrees in marine science, environmental science, ecology, and geography. Hosted by the university and open to all STEM students, the event brought together key organisations working in marine and offshore environmental management and conservation. Attendees included offshore wind farm developers, government agencies, engineering consultancies, and environmental charities, highlighting the breadth of careers available in the blue economy. NIFCA officers set up a stall and spoke with dozens of students about our work in inshore fisheries and conservation.
Many were particularly interested in how NIFCA monitors marine habitats and species across the district, and how this supports sustainable fisheries and local communities. The event was also an opportunity to highlight student engagement opportunities, including summer work placements, research collaborations, and potential PhD projects with NIFCA. By connecting with the next generation of marine professionals, events like Blue Planet help ensure continued innovation and enthusiasm in marine conservation. NIFCA is proud to support this exchange of ideas and to inspire students to get involved in protecting our coastal ecosystems.
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North Shields 800 community outreach
nifca news summer 2025
NIFCA is proud to be supporting the North Shields 800th Anniversary Celebrations taking place throughout 2025. The year-long programme marks a major milestone in the town’s history, celebrating its past, present and future through a packed calendar of community events and activities. In May, NIFCA joined a local ‘Information Sharing Day’ as part of the anniversary events. The team visited Year 5 pupils at New York Primary School in North Shields, engaging with forty-three children as one of five educational stations. Alongside NIFCA, representatives included historians discussing the fish quay during the 1800s, documentary photographer Pete Robinson with a collection of images of the North Shields fishing industry and Terry McDermott presenting on the area’s rich fishing heritage. NIFCA’s session introduced pupils to the Authority’s work, explaining how it helps protect marine life and support sustainable fisheries in the region. Staff explained the evolution of the organisation, from its origins as a Sea Fisheries Committee focused primarily on enforcement, to the modern IFCA model, which now places significant emphasis on research, surveys, and environmental monitoring. The children also took part in a hands-on activity exploring the Authority’s Lobster V-Notching programme. Using model lobsters and official measuring gauges, pupils learned how to identify which lobsters meet the legal minimum size for landing and which must be returned to the sea, a vital part of sustaining local stocks. The session gave young learners a deeper understanding of marine conservation, the science behind NIFCA’s decisions, and how local action supports wider environmental goals. On Friday 20 of June, the NIFCA team also took part in the North Shields 800 Parade of Sail, which involved a flotilla of local boats participating in a Blessing of the Fleet to celebrate the town's fishing heritage. th The team also attended the Pride of the Seas II Exhibition at the North Shields 800 Community Day on Saturday 28th June, hosted by the Linskill Centre. The popular event celebrated the rich history, heritage, and culture of North Shields through inspirational talks, music, exhibits and a community marketplace. NIFCA Chief Officer, Mark Southerton, said: “NIFCA is proud to support the North Shields 800, celebrating the heritage, resilience, and vibrant future of our coastal community. “Together, we honour the past and help shape a sustainable tomorrow for generations to come. We look forward to continuing our involvement in the North Shields 800 celebrations and building greater awareness of the work we do to protect our inshore marine environment."
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national work
Shaping UK Fisheries: IFCAs at Parliament
NIFCA Chief Mark Southerton and Chair Amelia Henderson at Parliamentary Reception
In May, the Association of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (AIFCA), alongside the ten Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs), took part in a pivotal parliamentary reception hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Fisheries Group in London. The event gathered MPs, policymakers, fisheries experts, and industry stakeholders to discuss the future of UK fisheries management in delivering a sustainable and economically viable marine sector. NIFCA was represented by Chief Officer Mark Southerton and Chair Amelia Henderson, who contributed to the open discussions around the challenges facing inshore fisheries and the urgent need for policy tailored to small-scale fishers and rural communities.
The reception followed the release of the ‘Securing Sustainable Inshore Fisheries in the UK’ report, which was published last Autumn. Developed by a consortium of seven organisations across government, industry, academia, and eNGOs, the report draws on the outcomes of two national workshops held in Poole and Whitby. These workshops brought together over 120 participants, including 53 fishers, to identify actionable strategies to sustain viable fishing livelihoods in England. At the event, AIFCA highlighted the need to strike a balance between environmental protection and the economic survival of inshore fishing communities. The decline in the under 10 metre fleet, which comprises 75% of the UK’s active vessels, was a central concern.
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These boats are particularly vulnerable due to limited range, weather dependence, and stock displacement. Moreover, data from 2023 showed that 30% of the under 10m English fleet landed most of their catch into rural ports, compared to only 13% of larger vessels, underlining the disproportionate impact on rural and coastal areas. The report outlines a shared understanding amongst stakeholders of the need to preserve both marine ecosystems and the communities that rely on them. It provides a clear set of priorities for policymakers: Amplify the voices of inshore fishers and strengthen their collective capacity. Ensure fair regulation of all sea users, including foreign fleets and offshore industries. Adapt health and safety rules to suit vessel scale. Expand grant access for small-scale fishing businesses. Support diversification and long-term business resilience. Invest in recruitment and training for future fishers. Boost public understanding and appreciation of the fishing sector. The parliamentary reception marked a critical next step in driving these priorities forward and expanding the conversation to include devolved nations. For AIFCA and its partners, the path to sustainable fisheries means protecting marine ecosystems while ensuring the people who depend on them, especially small-scale, rural fishers, can continue to thrive.
Describing the importance of the event, Mark Southerton, said:
“The parliamentary reception marked a vital step forward for the consortium in broadening engagement and reinforcing the case for more inclusive, regionally responsive fisheries policy. “The consensus is clear, sustainable fishing is not just about conserving fish stocks. It’s about preserving livelihoods, safeguarding communities, and ensuring the UK’s coastal heritage remains strong for generations to come.” The Securing Sustainable Inshore Fisheries in the UK report is available to read in full on the Newcastle University National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE) website:
www.tinyurl.com/SSUKinshorefish
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local work
Connecting with Our Coast: RSA & Commercial fisher Events
At NIFCA, building strong relationships with recreational sea anglers and commercial fishers is an incredibly important part of our work. Through regular stakeholder events, we’re creating and encouraging open channels for dialogue, feedback, and shared understanding around the management of our inshore fisheries. Engaging with Recreational Sea Anglers NIFCA officers seek to regularly connect with recreational sea anglers at community events, specialist gatherings, and during routine patrols. These interactions are vital for promoting awareness of regulations, encouraging compliance, and listening to the concerns and ideas of the angling community. One flagship initiative is our Species Challenge, which invites anglers to share details of their catches. By working together, we’re helping to build a clearer picture of fish species across the district. We’ve taken part in the Angling Trust’s virtual Sea Angling Forums, as well as hosting a summer informal drop in event at our office in Blyth, offering updates on NIFCA’s work and creating
space for discussion around recreational sea angling priorities and the chance to meet with some of our staff and members. Supporting the Commercial Fishing Community Our Fisher Forum events aim to provide commercial fishers with a platform to speak directly with NIFCA officers about the challenges and realities they face. The sessions cover key topics such as the impact of severe weather, industry regulations like medical certification, and other pressing concerns. Past forums have been held in key coastal locations including Holy Island, Seahouses, Eyemouth, Amble, Blyth, and North Shields, continuing our commitment to meet fishers where they work. Looking Ahead We’ll continue to host and promote stakeholder events to ensure everyone, whether rod and line or commercial vessel, is informed, heard, and involved in shaping the future of our inshore waters. Dates for our upcoming Autumn and Winter events will be announced shortly. We hope to see you there.
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nifca news summer 2025
welcoming our second engineer (NIFCA) has appointed Michael Mitchell as its new Second Engineer & Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer. Originally from Lancashire, Michael brings a wealth of practical experience and technical expertise to the team, with a background that spans marine engineering,
commercial fishing, and environmental monitoring.
His hands-on skills and in-depth knowledge of inshore fishing operations align closely with NIFCA’s mission to manage sustainable inshore fisheries and protect the marine environment. Previously employed as a marine engineer, Michael brings a wealth of expertise in servicing and maintaining a variety of marine engines and equipment, together with fault- finding and emergency repairs at sea, which will be vital in supporting the Authority’s patrol vessels. Michael also has significant sea- going experience. He holds a Seafish Skipper’s Certificate and has worked
extensively as a commercial fisher on the Northeast Coast, giving him a valuable insight into local fishing practices and enforcement procedures that will directly support his work as part of the enforcement team. Commenting on his appointment, Michael Mitchell said: “With experience in marine engineering and the commercial fishing industry, I am excited
about the opportunity to contribute to NIFCA’s mission of managing sustainable inshore fisheries and protecting the marine environment.
“This role brings together everything I’m passionate
about; engineering, working at sea, and marine conservation. I’m proud to be joining the team and look forward to making a positive impact.”
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Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority
8 Ennerdale Road, Blyth Northumberland NE24 4RT
01670 797676 nifca@nifca.gov.uk www.nifca.gov.uk
Northumberland IFCA
@N_IFCA
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