Bass Fishing Guidance 2026

Recreational bass fishing

Recreational fisheries, including from shore, in ICES divisions 4b, 4c, 6a, 7a and 7d to 7j are limited to catch-and-release using rod and handline only during 1 February to 31 March. Outside of this period, recreational fishers are limited to three fish per day bag limits as agreed in annual negotiations with the EU and amended by The Sea Fisheries (Amendment) Regulations 2026.

As well as the 1 February to 31 March catch and release period, there may be additional catch and release periods within bass nursery areas. Please see https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1999/75/made for information on bass nursery areas.

The MMO recommends that you also contact your local IFCA

The minimum size of European seabass is 42 cm. All specimens below this size must be released.

No bass can be taken by fixed or drift nets.

These rules apply if you are fishing from a boat or from the shore.

Statutory guidance for commercial fishing, Chartered angling vessels and recreational Bass fishing guidance is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/bass-industry-guidance-2025/bass-fishing-guidance-2025