Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Basque Government to Meet Angula Fishers to Weigh Reduced-Catch Reopening

Technical advisers report biomass near a tenth of pristine levels, prompting a management plan review.

Overview

  • The 2025–2026 angula season remains suspended following the Basque Government’s November decision based on conservation data.
  • The Fisheries Directorate will meet the Asociación de Anguleros de Euskadi next Tuesday to discuss a possible reopening with lower catch limits.
  • Vice Minister Leandro Azkue said current biomass around 9–9.5% makes the plan’s goal of 40% downstream escapement unattainable and noted rising fishing mortality.
  • Officials warned the sector could pursue administrative appeals that may move to court, after a noncommittal response in a prior meeting.
  • Azkue questioned professional licences held by many retirees and highlighted the fishery’s small scale, with 200 kg landed last season and about €100,000 in turnover.