News Archive

4th Nov 2022 - CLOSED - Project Officer: Fisheries Management Plans

IFCA’s have been tasked by Defra to support the planning, preparation and publication phases of Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs). FMPs are a new policy tool which Defra and its Arm’s Length Bodies will use to implement the objectives of the Fisheries Act 2020. This is a unique opportunity to be involved in innovative work which is shaping the future of fisheries management. 
Working in the Fisheries Management and Policy Team you will represent Southern IFCA at FMP meetings and working groups. You will coordinate the provision of information, evidence and data to support the development of the FMPs, as requested by delivery partners and as guided by your line manager. You will work with local and national colleagues, as well as help to coordinate communications and engagement with the inshore fishing communities. 

Closing date  :  23:59 on  December 2022

8th Nov 2022 - CLOSED - Accountant

Working remotely, you will support the role of Chief Executive Officer in the provision and development of an effective and efficient financial service by the Authority
You will oversee and be responsible for the accounting and finances systems, ensuring that they are managed effectively and efficiently in accordance with professional standards, appropriate financial policies and procedure and the Southern IFCA Financial Regulations. In doing so, you will develop and maintain good working relationships with the Chief Executive Officer, the Finance Manager and external auditor providers.. 

Closing date  :  23:59 on 2nd December 2022

8th Nov 2022 - CLOSED - Finance and Administration Manager

Working in the Business Service Team you will ensure that Southern IFCA manages its finances and administration functions effectively and efficiently in accordance with appropriate policies and procedures which will contribute to the teams’ delivery of sustainable fisheries management within the coastal waters of Hampshire, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight. 
You will develop and maintain good working relationships with individuals and organisations connected to the Authority’s financial management needs, to include the Authority’s appointed accountancy support and external auditor providers, Local Authority pension services and other partner organisations.
In this exciting and dynamic role, the successful candidate will undertake a range of administrative duties ranging from minute taking to the upkeep of the Authority’s website. The ideal candidate will be a good team player who has excellent organisational and communication skills ensuring delivery of function in a professional manner.

Closing date  :  23:59 on 25th November 2022

8th Nov 2022 - CLOSED -  Administration Officer

We are currently looking for a reliable individual who will undertake administrative tasks which will contribute to the teams’ delivery of sustainable fisheries management within the coastal waters of Hampshire, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight.
In this exciting and dynamic role, the successful candidate will undertake a range of administrative duties ranging from minute taking to the upkeep of the Authority’s website. The ideal candidate will be a good team player who has excellent organisational and communication skills ensuring delivery of function in a professional manner. 

Closing date  :  23:59 on 25th November 2022

8th Nov 2022 - CLOSED -  Finance Officer

Working in the Business Service Team you will ensure that Southern IFCA manages its finances effectively and efficiently in accordance with appropriate financial policies and procedures, which will contribute to the teams’ delivery of sustainable fisheries management within the coastal waters of Hampshire, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight
You will develop and maintain good working relationships with individuals and organisations connected to the Authority’s financial management needs, to include the Authority’s appointed accountancy support and external auditor providers, Local Authority pension services and other partner organisations.
You will be a good team player with excellent organisational and communication skills ensuring delivery of function in a professional manner.

Closing date  :  23:59 on 25th November 2022

5th Oct 2022 - CLOSED -  Senior IFCO Policy Specialist 

We are currently looking for an individual who will functionally manage a skilled team of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officers (IFCOs) in the development and review of inshore fisheries management interventions and will be proficient in the use of science and evidential underpinnings to support decision making.
The Senior IFCO Policy Specialist will ensure that Southern IFCA fulfils its core legislative responsibilities under the Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009); as well as ensuring the delivery of key functions under the Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations (2019) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. 
This is an exciting time to join Southern IFCA, where realisation as an independent coastal state is forging new ways of governance in inshore fisheries. We look forward to receiving applications from dynamic and motivated individuals who are invested in promoting and delivering the IFCA Vision.
Closing date Midnight on Monday 31 ^st October 2022 . 

30th Aug 2022 - Dolphin Head candidate Highly Protected Marine Area Focus Group (South 7d)

Alongside DEFRAs consultation on candidate Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) and in person events DEFRA will also be running online focus groups to discuss and gather evidence on stakeholder-specific uses and impacts. DEFRA would like to invite you to take part in an online session for Dolphin Head candidate HPMA on Thursday 22 September 10am-12pm. Please use this link to join the meeting: Click here to join the meeting   

DEFRA will also be running separate online focus groups for each of the other candidate HPMAs and a non site-specific session during this week. If you would like to attend any of these meetings please contact hpma@defra.gov.uk for the Teams link.  

The consultation will close on 28 September and a summary of consultation responses will be published in the months following this. The views and evidence gathered will inform the Secretary of State’s final decision as to which of the candidate sites to designate and their boundaries. Sites must be designated by 6 July 2023.

24 May 2022 - CLOSED -  Deputy Chief Officer - Fisheries Management and Policy Team 

We are currently looking for an individual who will lead the Fisheries Management and Policy Team in the delivery of sustainable fisheries and conservation management in the inshore coastal waters of Hampshire, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight, ensuring healthy marine environments and viable fishing communities.
The Deputy Chief Officer will be leading a skilled team of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officers (IFCOs) in the monitoring and assessment of inshore fisheries and in the development and review of inshore fisheries management interventions. 
As a member of the Senior Management Team, you will deliver strategic policy and champion innovative practice. This is an exciting and dynamic role, where the successful candidate will work with the local community to provide co-management solutions which are built upon sound evidence.
Closing date Midnight on 24th June 2022 . Please see details on the Vacancies Page.

20 April 2022 -  New Chief Officer Appointed  

We are delighted to announce our new Chief Officer is Pia Bateman. 

Pia has made excellent progress whilst in the role of Acting Chief Officer and we very much look forward to seeing a continuation of her hard work and dedication to the Authority. 

We, at Southern IFCA have exciting, and challenging times ahead and we are confident that with Pia at the helm, we will continue to ensure successful progress.

12 April 2022 -  Pot Fishing Byelaw - Formal Consultation

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to sections 155 and 156 of the  Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 , Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority intends to apply to the Minister for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for the confirmation of the following byelaw:

Pot Fishing Byelaw

The byelaw manages fishing with pots in the Southern IFC District and introduces Commercial and Recreational Potting Permits under which conditions are attached. The byelaw also requires all fishers in the District to mark their pots or strings of pots using marker buoys that clearly identify the vessel or permit number using those pots. 

Any person wishing to object to the confirmation of the above-named byelaw should visit our Live Consultations page to find further information and how to respond to the consultation. 

14  Mar 2022 - Southwest Crab & Lobster Fishery FIP and Management

The Southwest Crab and Lobster Fisheries Improvement Project (FIP), facilitated by Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), brings fishing industry organisations together with the aim of improving the fishery to a level at which it could apply for MSC accreditation. For the purpose of this project, within the Southern IFC District, the Southwest Crab and Lobster Fisheries are defined as taking place west of the 002° line (within ICES Area VIIe).

The FIP group (involving merchants, fishing associations, management bodies etc.) has been working for the past five years. The main action remaining requires the group to produce a Harvest Strategy and associated ‘Harvest Control Rules’ (HCRs) including Management Measures for the fishery.

MSC on are requesting responses to their SURVEY and organising workshops with industry to gather opinions and ideas on how best to manage the fishery going forward. These will be collated and put forward in a paper to DEFRA as well as used by the FIP to help inform the development of the Harvest Strategy.

Could all fishery participants please complete the SURVEY and indicate whether you would attend a workshop if it were to be held in Dorset.

Please could you also, by 30 ^th April, contact Southern IFCA ( enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk or 01202 721373) to register your interest in participating in the FIP if it were to progress to apply for MSC Accreditation.

3 Mar 2022 -  CLOSED Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer - FM&P Team

We are currently looking for an individual who will take a lead role in the delivery of sustainable fisheries management in the inshore coastal waters of Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight. In this exciting and dynamic role, the successful candidate will undertake a range of duties to include data and evidence gathering via fisheries surveys, stock assessments and stakeholder consultation and use this evidence base to influence and drive the development of appropriate management measures.

The successful candidate will undertake training to become a warranted Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (IFCO), to support the delivery of proportionate and effective enforcement of legislation, with an emphasis on the promotion of compliance via stakeholder engagement.

Closing date Midnight on 1 ^st  April 2022 . Please see details on the Vacancies Page.

7 Feb 2022 -  MMO Catch Recording Drop-in Sessions

The Marine Management Organisation are hosting a series of drop-in sessions to help fishers with under-10m vessels with their catch recording obligations.

Over the next few weeks, Marine Officers will be hosting a series of quayside drop-in sessions so fishers can raise their questions and get advice on using the catch recording service. Please see the below dates and locations of drop-in sessions that will be taking place in the Southern IFCA District. 

• Thursday 3 ^rd Feb – Weymouth Harbour 10:00 – 12:00
• Friday 4 ^th Feb – Lyme Regis, The Cobb 10:00 – 12:00
• Sunday 6 ^th Feb – Weymouth Harbour 10:00 – 12:00
• Tuesday 8 ^th Feb – Poole, Fisherman’s Dock 10:00 – 12:00
• Wednesday 9 ^th Feb – Mudeford Quay 10:00 – 12:00
• Friday 11 ^th Feb – West Bay Harbour 10:00 – 12:00
• Saturday 12 ^th Feb – Poole, Fisherman’s Dock 10:00 – 12:00
• Sunday 20 ^th Feb – Lyme Regis, The Cobb 10:00 – 12:00

Please see the MMO website for more information on Catch Recording and the upcoming drop-in sessions.

27 Jan 2022 - Poole fisherman found guilty of Failure to Comply offences

On Thursday 27 ^th January 2022 at Poole Magistrates Court, Poole fisherman Geoffrey Bennett was found guilty of failing without reasonable excuse to comply with a direction reasonably given by Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officers from the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (Southern IFCA) and was ordered to pay costs and fines totalling £16,180. 

The court heard how during the afternoon of Thursday 3 ^rd September 2020 in Poole Harbour, Geoffrey Bennett returned from fishing aboard his vessel PE443 Sea Turkey. Officers saw Mr. Bennett travel from the direction of Rockley Spit to bring his fishing vessel alongside the quay wall in front of the slipway at Rockley Boat Park Marina. Once alongside the quay wall Mr. Bennett dropped off his crewman who walked to a van parked nearby. The crewman opened the rear doors of the van and reversed to meet the bow of Mr. Bennett’s fishing boat.

The officers in attendance moved to carry out an inspection of Mr. Bennett’s catch, but on seeing the officers Mr. Bennett reversed away from the quay wall and the crewman sped away with the rear doors of the van still open. The Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officers were well known to Mr. Bennett. They stood on the quay wall near to Mr. Bennett issuing numerous directions asking Mr. Bennett to stop to allow an inspection of his catch, but these directions were ignored by Mr. Bennett who drove his vessel under Rockley Bridge and into Lytchett Bay. The officers could see a large quantity of manila clams (with an estimated weight of 425kg and a first sale value of between £1,275 and £1,487.50) situated on the deck of the fishing vessel. Most of the incident was captured on the body worn cameras of the officers attending.

At court Mr. Bennett said that he had not seen the officers or heard their directions. He told the court that he needed to get away in a hurry because of the poor weather conditions and the risk of damage to his boat if he left it there. The court did not find Mr. Bennett’s account credible and he was found guilty of two charges of Failing to Comply with officers. Mr. Bennett was fined £6,000, ordered to pay prosecution costs of £10,000 and a victim surcharge of £180.

When asked to comment, Deputy Chief Officer Sam Dell said, “This case sends a clear message that failing to comply with the Authority’s officers will not be tolerated. The Marine and Coastal Access Act gives our officers common enforcement powers to carry out inspections. It provides robust legislation to protect officers against this type of misconduct. The Southern IFCA is committed to protecting the fishery to ensure healthy seas and a viable industry. By taking offenders to court we aim to support a sustainable local fishery.”

10 Jan 2022 - Southern IFCA's New Byelaw Booklet

We are excited to launch our new, interactive Southern IFCA Byelaw Booklet . Southern IFCA have been working with a graphic designer to create a new, user-friendly and easy-to-navigate Byelaw Booklet for industry. The new booklet is interactive, meaning you can navigate between the Contents page and each Byelaw with a single click! 

All the Southern IFCA Byelaws currently in force are detailed in the Byelaw Booklet. However, please note that the Byelaw Booklet is not a definitive statement of current regulations. All our original byelaws are held at the Authority’s office and copies are available on request.

Please also note that only the Southern IFCA  Byelaws  are detailed in the Byelaw Booklet. In addition to these byelaws, there are a number of other pieces of legislation, such as UK Orders and Southern IFCA Codes of Practice that apply within the Southern IFCA District. Please see the relevant Regulations web pages for more information. 

To view our new Byelaw Booklet, please click here. 

4 Jan 2022 - Become a Member of the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA)

The MMO is seeking to fill existing vacancies and create a reserve list for upcoming vacancies on the Authority and welcomes applications from all sectors but particularly from people with a background in commercial fishing or recreational angling and with a good knowledge of the Southern IFCA area. For more information about the role and how to apply please visit Exciting opportunity to manage inshore fisheries and conservation (IFCA) - GOV.UK ( www.gov.uk ).

Applications close on the 24th January 2022 .

22 Dec 2021 -  Net Fishing Byelaw - Formal Consultation (Closed)

Southern IFCA has opened a period of formal consultation for its Net Fishing Byelaw.  Any responses must be received no later than the 4 ^th February 2022 .

The purpose of the Net Fishing Byelaw is to manage fishing with nets for sea fisheries resources in the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation District in line with the Authority’s duties under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, The Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 and The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

The byelaw introduces Net Prohibition Areas, Net Restriction Areas and Net Permit Areas. Net fishing will be prohibited in Net Prohibition Areas. Net fishing within Net Restriction Areas will be subject to seasonal and/or gear restrictions and net fishing within Net Permit Areas will be managed under flexible permit conditions, subject to the review procedure set out in the byelaw.

The byelaw ensures that all nets used in the District must be marked at each end by a marker buoy that clearly identifies the vessel using that net. The byelaw details both ‘Exceptions’ and ‘Dispensations’ for certain lawful activities.

The management of the Net Permit Areas will be informed by a Net Fishing Monitoring and Control Plan to ensure that the Authority is using the best available to ensure that the ongoing management of the District’s net fisheries remain compatible with the Conservation Objectives set (specific to Altantic salmon, Salmo salar ) for relevant SACs and where Atlantic salmon and/or sea trout ( Salmo trutta ) are a notified feature or component of a SSSI.

For details of the full byelaw, supporting documents and how to respond to the consultation please see the LIVE Consultations page.   The consultation closes on   3 ^rd  February 2022.

14 Dec 2021 - Recreational Angling Sector Group - Register Your Interest

The Southern IFCA Recreational Angling Sector Group was formed in 2015 and contributes towards Southern IFCA fulfilling the aims of its angling strategy. The group is made up of local anglers or charter skippers with experience within the Southern IFCA district. The aims of the group are to:

• Provide a forum to discuss fisheries management topics relevant to the local sea angling sector
• Develop more effective communication between the sea angling sector and the bodies responsible for management
• Assist in the development of local sea angling strategies
• Comment and provide input into proposed local fisheries management
• Promote sea angling to the local community
• Promote data sharing between the local anglers and the relevant management bodies

The group is currently trying to improve its membership distribution across the district and is particularly interested in hearing from individuals who may wish to join from the West Dorset or Hampshire areas. Meetings of the group are held roughly every quarter and currently take place on a weekday evening via MS Teams.

If you are interested in learning more about the group or would like to apply to join please get in contact enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk

29 Nov 2021 - NOW CLOSED: Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer - Fisheries Protection Team

Southern IFCA are recruiting for an Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer in the Fisheries Protection Team . Closing date 5th January 2022 (1700 hrs). Please click to visit the Vacancies page for more details.

21 Nov 2021 -  Solent Scallop Update - Consultation Now CLOSED

Following the Technical Advisory Committee meeting held on the 4th Novemebr 2021, Southern IFCA has the following updates relating to the Solent Scallop Fishery:

• A consultation is currently live, considering the next steps in the Solent Scallop Fishery Review. Currently under consultation with permit holders and relevant stakeholders is the Solent Scallop Code of Conduct, and whether the measures contained in the Code should be incorporated into the permit conditions for a Solent Dredge Category A Permit. More details of this consultation can be found on our Live Consultations page .
• An amendment has been made to the Solent Dredge Permit Byelaw Access Policy, allowing an additional entry route for a Category A Permit in years 1-3 of the fishery, relating to track records in the Solent scallop fishery between January 2019 and March 2021. Applications under this route are live until the 3rd December 2021. Details on this and the Solent Dredge Permit application process can be found here .

15 Nov 2021 - Essential Fish Habitats identified by Small Fish Surveys

Each year Southern IFCA conduct juvenile fish surveys in Spring and Autumn to survey Essential Fish Habitats (EFH) in the District’s estuaries and harbours. These areas provide important nursery areas for juvenile fish whilst other species of fish utilise the habitat for their full life cycle. Working in collaboration with partners such as the Environment Agency, National Trust, Isle of Wight Estuaries Project, local fishers, and academic institutions a seine net is deployed from the shore at each survey site and each specimen caught is identified, measured, and counted before being returned alive to the sea. This long term data set helps us to understand habitat use by fish species, changes in fish communities over time, ecosystem health. The data has recently been of particular importance in helping to develop evidence packages for the Authority’s Netting Review by providing insights into the value of EFH in the District.

To increase awareness of the IFCA’s fish monitoring program amongst stakeholders and the public a new report format has been developed whereby snapshots of each survey are captured in an easily digestible poster. These posters are then available to partners and the local community of each survey to share through newsletters, notice boards etc. A more comprehensive evaluation of the data will also be captured in a report once both Spring and Autumn surveys have been completed each year.

11 Nov 2021 -  Working with Industry to Gather Fisheries Data

The IFCAs management of fisheries within the district is evidence based and relies heavily on the collection of relevant data to inform its decision making. An important part of this is the IFCA’s survey programme, which aims to fill gaps in evidence bases and provide ongoing monitoring of certain stocks. Reports are regularly provided to the authority highlighting the results of these, but this article aims to provide information on the process of working with industry to achieve these goals and gather data

Working with industry has some important benefits:

• It provides the IFCA with on the ground knowledge and expertise when developing, implementing and interpreting the results of surveys.
• It provides the fishers with an understanding of the process for collecting data and allows industry to feed into the process at an early stage
• It can provide officers with key platforms (e.g. chartered vessels/gear) for undertaking evidence gathering

When developing and undertaking surveys therefore officers, where appropriate will:

• Engage early with fishers to feed into survey design, getting information where appropriate on survey areas, methods, gear and equipment to use
• Involve fishers in the undertaking of surveys, where necessary inviting participation or chartering vessels to allow for a partnership approach on evidence gathering.
• Feedback the results to industry at relevant points, providing information on how this is informing management.

The above has been exemplified in this calendar year where surveys including the Poole Bivalve survey, fish monitoring net surveys, Solent native oyster survey and Solent scallop survey have all involved participation of industry in either the development or undertaking of the survey. The above have fed into management decisions, or ongoing monitoring, therefore contributing towards co-management. 

18 Oct 2021 - Poole Fisherman pleads guilty to Obstruction and Retaining Undersize Shellfish

On 18th October 2021 at Poole Magistrates Court, Reginald John Skinner of Poole pleaded guilty to fishing offences.

As part owner of fishing vessel Sky PE1232, Mr. Skinner pleaded guilty to charges of retaining a quantity of undersized clams aboard his vessel and to obstructing enforcement officers from the Southern Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority (Southern IFCA).

The court heard how on 12 ^th  December 2019, Mr. Skinner’s sons, Andrew & Christopher were fishing from 2 different vessels in Poole Harbour. Aboard fishing vessel Sky PE1232, was Christopher Skinner. Christopher returned from a day’s fishing to the area of his mooring, where he jettisoned numerous bags of shellfish close by and out of view in shallow water. As the tide receded, these and another quantity of bags of shellfish, situated further up the foreshore, came into view.

Warranted officers from the Southern IFCA saw Mr. Reginald Skinner arrive at the location in a vehicle. The bags furthest up the foreshore (9 in total) were lifted into the back of the vehicle before Reginald Skinner returned to the driver’s seat. As he did so Mr. Skinner was hailed by officers who instructed him to stop to allow an inspection of his vehicle and catch of shellfish, but Mr. Skinner prevented the officers from doing so by driving off. The officers made several attempts to stop Mr. Skinner, using hand signals and verbal commands, but he repeatedly failed to comply with officer instructions. The officers eventually had to take evasive action to avoid being struck by Mr. Skinner’s fast moving vehicle.

As the tide receded further, the shellfish previously jettisoned from Mr. Skinner’s fishing vessel Sky PE1232 came into view. In total 9 bags of clams, weighing 332.3kg with an estimated first sale value of between £1329.20 and £1,827.65, were recovered by Southern IFCA officers. The catch was inspected for compliance with the minimum size regulations and an average of 75.9% of the clams were below the minimum conservation reference size of 35mm. Officers returned the seized catch to the harbour alive. Minimum conservation reference sizes are established to ensure the protection of juvenile marine species. They allow individuals to reproduce at least once before they are removed from a fishery.

Mr. Reginald Skinner was fined £400 and ordered to pay £400 towards prosecution costs and a victim surcharge of £40. The Southern IFCA cases against Andrew and Christopher Skinner for their involvement in the same incident were heard earlier in the year at Poole Magistrates Court on 12 ^th May 2021, when they received identical sentences.

Acting Deputy Chief Officer Sam Dell said, “Obstruction of the Authority’s officers will not be tolerated. The Marine and Coastal Access Act gives officers common enforcement powers to carryout inspections and provides robust legislation to assist officers in regard to this type of misconduct.  Southern IFCA is committed to protecting the fishery to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry. By taking offenders to court we aim to support a sustainable local fishery.”

18 Oct 2021 - CLOSED: Deputy Chief Officer

Southern IFCA are recruiting for senior appointment to the role of Deputy Chief Officer (Fisheries Protection). Closing date 8th November 2021. Please see details on the vacancies page.

13 Oct 2021 - Green Island Dredge Closure Area Emergency Byelaw

On the 13 ^th October 2021, the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority made an emergency byelaw under s157 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 to ensure that saltmarsh within the Green Island Dredge Closure Area is not damaged, disturbed or allowed to deteriorate as a direct result of dredge fishing incursions within an area which has been managed under The Green Island Saltmarsh Management Area Code of Conduct since 2019. The Authority for the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation District considers that there is an urgent need for this byelaw due to significant breaches of the Green Island Saltmarsh Management during the 2021 Poole Harbour Dredge Permit season.

Under the Green Island Dredge Closure Area Emergency Byelaw, the following prohibition applies: “ A person on board or by means of a vessel must not use, retain on board, store or transport a dredge within the Green Island Dredge Closure Area ”. This byelaw will remain in force until 25th December 2021. To view all current regulations relating to bottom towed fishing gears, please click here .

25 Sept 2021 -  CLOSED: Finance and Administration Manager (Re-advertised)

Southern IFCA are recruiting for Finance and Administration Manager. Closing date 3rd December 2021. Please see details on the vacancies page.

20 Sept 2021 -  Six Months of our New Website

It has been six months since our new website went live! The website was an immediate success with twenty-one people completing our feedback form in its first month. The resounding majority loved and were extremely positive about it. Feedback included the comments: 'easy to navigate', 'looks very professional', 'very informative' and 'like the pictures'. A couple of visitors noticed a minor teething error that the minimum sizes were missing so we quickly added this to several pages. 

Behind the scenes the work on the website has continued led by Debbie, IFCO Griffiths and IFCO Smith. Our officers have had to learn how to edit the website. For some pages this is as simple as amending text and replacing images, however for other pages editing requires an understanding of the computer code which programmes how the website looks and works. In some instances, good old-fashioned trial and error have come into play when working out exactly which lines of code are needed to achieve the specific function. For example, the code needed to make our news articles ‘dropdown’ and the settings required to make images adapt to different screen sizes. Of course, if we really get stuck our web developers Toolkit are always happy to help make an edit or teach us how to.

We have fully utilised this exciting resource since it went live posting many news articles, used pages such as ‘Live consultations' for the first time and have uploaded more than eight new pages including:

• Minimum Sizes
• Fishing For Sale Permit Page
• Key Species
• Drone and ROV
• and.. all our News items!

Continue checking in regularly with our website to keep up to date with the latest information!

15 Sept 2021 -  Poole Harbour Bivalve Stock Assessment

Southern IFCA have published the annual bivalve survey results for Poole Harbour. The survey gathered data on the catch per unit effort (CPUE) and size of clams and cockles throughout the Harbour.

CPUE has remained consistent with that seen in 2019 indicating that the clam population remains stable.

See the full survey results on our Fisheries and Research Poole Harbour Fisheries page .

10 Sept 2021 -  Behind the Scenes with IFCO Cooper

In 2015 Southern IFCA worked with local angling representatives to develop the Recreational Angling Sector Group in line with Southern IFCAs recreational angling strategy. The group is facilitated by the IFCA and I provide the secretariat duties for the group. The group is chaired owned by the anglers making up its membership.

The group has a number of aims, but those identified in the terms of reference are:

• Provide a forum to discuss fisheries management topics relevant to the local sea angling sector.
• Develop more effective communication between the sea angling sector and the bodies responsible for management.
• Assist in the development of local sea angling strategies.
• Comment and provide input into proposed local fisheries management.
• Promote sea angling to the local community.
• Promote data sharing between local anglers and the relevant management bodies.

I have found working with this group particularly interesting and useful. It has formed an important part Southern IFCA’s work to date, most recently feeding into the development of the Piers code of conduct. Having feedback from the group will be vital moving forward, particularly with workstreams such as the MCRS review and Bream MCZ management on the horizon. The access it provides officers to a key stakeholder group is really useful and I hope to continue working closely with members of the group in the future.

29 Aug 2021 -  Solent Scallop Fishery Stock Assessment

Southern IFCA have completed the first baseline survey of scallops in the Solent. The survey gathered data on the catch rate and size of king scallops (Pecten maximums) on the Eastern side of the Solent. We found a good number of scallops in the area ranging in size from 5 cm to 14 cm in width.

See the full survey results on the Fisheries and Research Solent Dredge Fisheries page.

Southern IFCA will use this baseline survey data to compare to future survey results. The evidence will be used to inform future management measures for the scallop fishery under our Solent Dredge Permit.

17 Aug 2021 -  Behind the Scenes with IFCO Birchenough

In 2020 I helped to work on the issuing of leases for the Poole Fishery Order 2015 for the next five-year period (2020-25). During this process, the use of Pacific oysters as an aquaculture species was discussed due to their designation as an Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS). This discussion led to an in depth look at the science behind this species including whether any wild populations were forming as a result of the aquaculture activity.

The Pacific oyster has been present in Poole since 1890 and the Harbour is currently the largest Pacific oyster production area in England. It is an important aquaculture species with a total economic activity value in Poole of over £2 million annually. This is an interesting topic and one which is also at the forefront nationally with Defra poised to issue a position paper on the use of this species in aquaculture in the future.

From our local perspective, we identified that up-to-date scientific data was needed on the occurrence of any wild Pacific oyster population in Poole Harbour. We are now working with the University of Southampton to run a survey to assess the population of wild Pacific oysters in Poole Harbour as part of a Masters project. The aim is to carry out this survey for the first time during the summer of 2021 covering a variety of different shore locations across the Harbour. The data from the survey will be used alongside other relevant data sources, such as indications of levels of natural change in wild Pacific oyster populations, to help inform future reviews of management measures. We will be liaising with Natural England following the initial survey to discuss the results and develop an ongoing survey program and a Monitoring and Control Plan for the fishery.

29 July 2021 -  Minimum Conservation Reference Size Byelaw

Southern IFCA is pleased to announce the confirmation of the Minimum Conservation Reference Size Byelaw. The byelaw introduces minimum sizes to enable the protection of juvenile fish and shellfish species. These minimum size measures will be applied throughout the commercial supply chain and to recreational fishers. The measures include new minimum sizes for wrasse species, grey mullet species and crawfish. The byelaw is now in force throughout the Southern IFC District. 

Additional information on the byelaw can be found in our MCRS Byelaw Frequently Asked Questions and on our Minimum Sizes Regulations page .

08 July 2021 - Raising awareness of wildlife disturbance in Dorset

Southern IFCA have recently been working with a number of partner agencies, including the MMO, MCA, RNLI, Dorset Police, Dorset Police Marine Unit, Dorset Police Rural Crime Unit, PHC and BCP council, to engage with various stakeholders, recreational vessels and personal watercraft users regarding wildlife disturbance in Dorset. 

To find out more, please follow this link:  https://www.gov.uk/government/news/raising-awareness-of-marine-wildlife-disturbance-in-dorset

08 July 2021 - Opportunity to become a Committee Member of the Southern IFCA

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a candidate with a scientific background to become a member of the Southern IFCA and take an active role in fisheries management and marine conservation in the coastal waters of Dorset, Hampshire & the Isle of Wight.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a candidate with a scientific background to become a member of the Southern IFCA and take an active role in fisheries management and marine conservation in the coastal waters of Dorset, Hampshire & the Isle of Wight.

These voluntary roles require candidates who can take a balanced approach to caring for our seas, assessing the priority and importance of all users and stakeholders. It is essential that candidates have a good local knowledge of the IFCA area for which they are applying. The members of the IFCA contribute their knowledge and experience to provide sustainable management of the inshore marine area of their IFC District.

We are seeking to appoint hands-on individuals with good communication skills and an ability to circulate IFCA regulations, policies, and guidance through their network of contacts to serve as a member.

These are exciting opportunities for people with experience and a passion for their inshore marine area to play a major part in shaping how their local area is managed. If you want to make a positive difference and help balance economic, social, and environmental needs, we would be pleased to hear from you.

We seek to achieve a balanced membership across various interest groups, including those with commercial, recreational, and environmental interests. To assist in maintaining this balance the MMO seek to appoint the following:

Southern IFCA welcomes applications from candidates with a scientific background within the marine environment and working knowledge of the IFC District.

The role is on a voluntary basis although relevant expenses may be reimbursed. Each appointment is made for a period of 3 to 5 years, with the possibility of reappointment up to a maximum of 10 years.

The deadline for applications is  23:55 on Sunday 1 August 2021 .

Should you wish to discuss the role of a general member in greater detail or require assistance with completion of your application form please speak to Southern IFCA. Contact details can be found here   Contact Us.  

To read the Candidate pack  CLICK HERE.
To complete or print the application form see here:  Printable form & Digital Form
Read the  DEFRA Guidance on appointment of committee members to IFCAs. 

11 June 2021 - Minimum Conservation Reference Sizes – Call for Information

Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) have launched a ‘Call for Information’ in order to gather additional evidence to support and inform our Review of Minimum Conservation Reference Sizes (MCRS) in the Southern IFC District (“the District”).

The Review aims to (1) assess existing MCRS limits, which are currently applicable across the District, and (2), to consider whether there is a need to introduce MCRS’s for additional species, which are not currently subject to a MCRS within the District.

The ‘Call for Information’ is open until 20 ^th July 2021.

Please visit our ‘ Live Consultations ’ page for more information and to access the online survey.

  02 June 2021 - Net Fishing Around Piers Code of Practice

Southern IFCA has introduced a new Code of Practice for net fishing around piers. The Net Fishing Around Piers Code of Practice  is a non-regulatory approach to prevent the use of fishing nets, except landing and drop nets, from within 200m of nine piers in the Southern IFC District. The piers affected are:

• Sandown Pier , Sandown, Isle of Wight;
• Ryde Pier Head , Ryde, Isle of Wight;
• South Parade Pier , Portsmouth, Hampshire;
• Yarmouth Pier , Yarmouth, Isle of Wight;
• Boscombe Pier , Bournemouth, Dorset;
• Bournemouth Pier , Bournemouth, Dorset;
• Swanage Pier , Swanage, Dorset;
• Weymouth Stone Pier , Weymouth, Dorset; and
• Weymouth Pleasure Pier , Weymouth, Dorset.

These measures aim to balance the different needs of persons engaged in the exploitation of sea fisheries resources in the Southern IFC District, in line with the Authority’s duties under the Marine and Coastal Access Act, 2009. Recreational sea angling is popular activity in the Southern IFC District and the pier locations in this Code of Practice provide important access for participants. Concerns have been raised over the potential for fishing nets, when used near these pier structures, to negatively impact recreational sea angling activity.

This Code of Practice was developed through the Southern IFCA Netting Review as a first alternative to a byelaw as sector representatives from the Recreational Angling Sector Group (RASG) and the South Coast Fisherman’s Council (SCFC) have identified the potential to address the matter through small changes in fishing practice.

This Code of Practice will be reviewed no later than 31 ^st December 2022. Should the code prove ineffective, Southern IFCA will consider the introduction of regulatory measures.

The Authority will now publicise these new measures amongst the fishing community, we would welcome your support in doing so. A useful poster can be DOWNLOADED HERE . If you would like to report information to the Authority relating to the possible non-compliance of this code you can complete the form on our website ( Contact Us : Southern IFCA (southern-ifca.gov.uk) ) or call 01202 721373 . When doing so, please remember to include a description of the fishing gear and vessels.

12 May 2021 - Poole Fishermen plead guilty to Obstruction and Retaining Undersize Shellfish

On 12 ^th May 2021 at Poole Magistrates Court, brothers Andrew Skinner and Christopher Skinner of Poole pleaded guilty to fishing offences.

As part owner of fishing vessel Sky PE1232, Mr. Andrew Skinner pleaded guilty to charges of retaining a quantity of undersized clams aboard his vessel and to obstructing enforcement officers from the Southern Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority (Southern IFCA).

As master and part owner of fishing vessel Sky PE1232, Mr. Christopher Skinner pleaded guilty to retaining a quantity of undersized clams.

The court heard how on 12 ^th December 2019 in Poole Harbour, both brothers were fishing from different vessels. Christopher Skinner, aboard Sky PE1232, returned from a day’s fishing close to the area of his mooring, where he discarded numerous bags of shellfish out of view in shallow water. Soon afterwards, in a slightly different location nearby, Southern IFCA officers saw Andrew Skinner load 9 bags of shellfish into the back of his vehicle.

Warranted officers from the Southern IFCA attended the area to carry out an inspection of Andrew Skinner’s catch and vehicle for compliance with the regulations, but Andrew Skinner prevented the officers from doing so by driving off. The officers made several attempts to stop Mr. Skinner, using hand signals and verbal commands, but Andrew Skinner repeatedly failed to comply with officer instructions. The officers eventually had to take evasive action to avoid being struck by his fast moving vehicle.

Officers remained in the area. As the tide receded, the shellfish previously discarded by Christopher Skinner came into view. In total 9 bags of clams, weighing 332.3kg with an estimated first sale value of between £1329.20 and £1,827.65, were recovered by Southern IFCA officers. The catch was inspected for compliance with the minimum size regulations and an average of 75.9% of the clams were below the minimum conservation reference size of 35mm. Officers returned the seized catch to the harbour alive. Minimum conservation reference sizes are established to ensure the protection of juvenile marine species. They allow individuals to reproduce at least once before they are removed from a fishery.

Andrew Skinner and Christopher Skinner were both fined £400, both ordered to pay £400 towards prosecution costs and both ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £40.

Acting Deputy Chief Officer Sam Dell said, “Obstruction of the Authority’s officers will not be tolerated. The Marine and Coastal Access Act gives officers common enforcement powers to carryout inspections and provides robust legislation to assist officers in regard to this type of misconduct.  Southern IFCA is committed to protecting the fishery to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry. By taking offenders to court we aim to support a sustainable local fishery.”

11 May 2021 - Southern IFCA's New Drone

Southern IFCA have recently been working with  heliguy™  to procure a DJI M300 RTK drone for fisheries enforcement, management and research purposes. The DJI M300 RTK drone is fitted with a H20T camera, which has thermal imaging, zoom and wide-angle functions and therefore, will enhance Southern IFCA's enforcement capabilities. The drone will also be utilised for research and conservation, which will feed into current and future management measures.

To read more about Southern IFCA's drone, please see our Drone and ROV  page and read the following blog post written by heliguy™ -  IFCA USING DJI M300 RTK DRONE FOR UK FISHERIES MANAGEMENT.

5 May 2021 - Solent Dredge Permit Applications

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN for the Solent Dredge Permit Byelaw.

The byelaw comes into force on the 1 ^st November 2021 and prohibits the use of a dredge by a vessel in the Solent, Southampton Water, Portsmouth Harbour and Langstone Harbour, unless authorised by a permit.

For details regarding who can apply and how to submit an application, please visit the Solent Permit Application Page.

19 April 2021 - Poole fisher pleads guilty to Obstruction and Failure to Comply charges

On 19 ^th April 2021 at Poole Magistrates Court, Mr. Patrick Hennessy of Poole pleaded guilty to charges of Obstructing and Failing to Comply with an enforcement officer from the Southern Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority (Southern IFCA).

The court heard how on the night of 12 ^th January 2020 in Poole Harbour Mr. Hennessy was fishing from an unregistered, unlicenced fishing boat. Mr. Hennessy was intercepted by Southern IFCA officers aboard the Fisheries Patrol Vessel. He was asked by officers to stop, to allow an inspection of his vessel, but he failed to do so. The officers were obstructed in the performance of their officer functions when Mr. Hennessy threw his catch and fishing equipment overboard.

Mr. Hennessy was fined £150 for obstructing enforcement officer Adam Parry and a further £150 for failing to comply with a direction reasonably given by officer Parry. In addition, Mr. Hennessy was ordered to pay £500 towards prosecution costs and a victim surcharge of £32.

  09   April 2021  - Administration and Permitting Officer

Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority are currently looking for a reliable individual who will undertake administrative tasks which will contribute to the teams’ delivery of sustainable fisheries management within the coastal waters of Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.

For more information please visit our VACANCIES page.

18 March 2021 - Southern IFCA’s New Website!

We’ve been working hard over the past few months with our web designers to bring you an easier to use, more informative, secure and mobile friendly website. We’ve launched the website today!

We’ve updated our website in a number of ways to make it easier to navigate, easier to find and access our documents, more informative and more modern. You should now be able to find everything you need to know about us and our work on our website. Here are just a few of the ways we have done this:

• All Management Measures available to download and print as individual PDFs
• Management measures separated by fishing activity e.g. Pots & Traps and Rod and Line
• Fisheries & Research pages e.g. Solent Dredge Fisheries which hold information including Stock assessments, Marine Protected Area Assessments & Management Plans.
• FAQs to help answer those quick and common questions
• Pages which give an up-to-date summary of our Ongoing Management Reviews
• Quick Downloads page holding all those helpful leaflets and regularly requested documents.

If you have any feedback on our new website, good or bad, please feel free to Contact Us .

23 February 2021 - Bass fishing 2021

It has been announced that the 2020 rules for bass fishing have been rolled over for 2021 for both recreational and commercial fishing.  The 2020 rules are still set out on the gov.uk website here:  Bass Fishing Guidance 2020.

The following statement is from the gov.uk website:
"The current Bass Measures 2020 as per Article 10 of  Council Regulation 2020/123  will carry over on 1 January 2021. Landings limits in 2021 will provisionally stay the same until further notice into the new year, once annual negotiations for 2021 have been completed, and any implementation steps to be taken at UK level to take any changes into account have taken place. Current bass authorisations continue to be valid, please continue to refer to the Gov Bass Fishing Guidance 2020. "
Please note that the National Lockdown rules may prohibit certain leisure activities. Be sure to check the national and local lockdown rules to ensure that recreational sea angling is allowed before going fishing.
https://www.sportengland.org/how-we-can-help/coronavirus/return-play/frequently-asked-questions-national-lockdown-restrictions

2 December 2020 - Fishing vessel inspections

To ensure that UK trade is supported after the UK leaves the EU the Food Standards Agency has requested that local authorities gain assurance that fishing vessels based in their ports are compliant with current hygiene requirements. For vessels that land into the BCP area this will consist of registration with BCP Council and a simple and limited hygiene inspection.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, Food Safety and Port Health officers are registering and inspecting all fishing vessels whose home port is within its area. This will cover Poole and Christchurch.

Priority for inspections will be given to fishing boats that supply buyers / merchants or export direct to the EU. Without registration and inspection after the 1st January 2021, shellfish, crab and lobster etc will not be able to be exported to the EU without being able to provide full traceability for the issuing of health certificates.

Please email porthealth@bcpcouncil.gov.uk to arrange registration and inspection.

Following contact, they will forward a food registration form and a basic checklist to be completed prior to inspection and arrange a time and place to inspection your vessel.

If you land into another local council area – contact your local council for relevant information. However, if you land your catch in an area outside of BCP, but export your catch through a Poole merchant or export business, then you will need to register with us. If you are unsure where to register, contact BCP to discuss.

10 November 2020 - Illegal fisher pleads guilty to Common Assault and Failing to Comply with a Fisheries Enforcement Officer

On 6th November 2020, at Poole Magistrates Court, Mr. Ashley Whiffen of Poole pleaded guilty to two counts of Common Assault and to Failing to Comply with an enforcement officer. The charges, stemming from the same incident, were laid by Dorset Police and the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority.

The court heard how, on the night of 12th January 2020 in Poole Harbour, Mr. Whiffen was fishing from an unregistered, unlicenced fishing boat. When Mr. Whiffen was intercepted by Southern IFCA officers aboard the Fisheries Patrol Vessel he failed to stop to allow an inspection of his vessel and catch. Mr. Whiffen became abusive, hurling handfuls of shellfish at the enforcement officers as they repeatedly directed him to stop his vessel. Two of the enforcement officers sustained minor injuries during the incident.

In relation to the assault on the two officers, Mr. Whiffen was conditionally discharged for 12 months. For failing to comply with the directions of the Southern IFCA officers, Mr. Whiffen was fined £100, ordered to pay £50 towards costs and a victim surcharge of £34.

6 November 2020 - Consultation on the Review of Management Measures in the Inshore Pot Fisheries OPEN

Southern IFCA’s Consultation on the Review of Management Measures in the Inshore Pot Fisheries is now open.

The consultation is aimed at supporting the development and appraisal of potential management options within the District’s pot fisheries, to include whelk, crab, lobster and cuttlefish.

The consultation will run for a period of 10 weeks from the  6 ^th November 2020 until the 15 ^th January 2021

Respond now using the online questionnaire:  https://forms.gle/obE3sLkBeUgkmSPr9

Please click here to visit our consultations page for more information  and other ways to respond. 

5 November 2020 - Solent Scallop Fishery - Call for Information

Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) is seeking information on the Solent scallop fishery in order to support the sustainability of this fishery. In response to recent interest from the local fishing community we are aiming to better understand the fishery and consider whether additional management is necessary. 
Please click here to visit our consultations page for more information

8 October 2020 - Southern IFCA update to Privacy Notices

The Authority has updated its privacy notices to reflect the implementation of a Data Sharing Agreement with the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

The Authority and MMO regularly share data to inform decision making and make the best use of evidence using freedom of information requests.  The data sharing agreement sets out how The Authority and MMO will more routinely share data with the MMO whilst ensuring the rights and freedoms of the data subjects.

The types of data being shared are contact details, fishing activity data and criminal activity data. 

The Authority has also implemented an updated data security policy to ensure that your data us used safely and in accordance with the law.  The data security policy can be found Data Security Policy.

26 October 2020 - The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is looking to recruit several members to the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA).  

Each IFCA needs members who will take a balanced approach to caring for our seas, assessing the priority and importance of all users and stakeholders. The Southern IFCA is seeking proactive individuals with good communication skills and a demonstrable ability to disseminate IFCA regulations, policies and guidance through their network of contacts to serve as a member.

Andrew Wareing, Director of Digital and Analysis at MMO, reponsible for IFCA selection, said:

"These are exciting opportunities for people with experience and a passion for their inshore marine area to play a major part in shaping how their local area is managed. If you want to make a positive difference and help balance economic, social and environmental needs, we would be pleased to hear from you."

MMO invite applications from all industry sectors, however we would particularly welcome applicants from the recreational fishing and scientific sector.

The deadline for applications is 23:55 on Sunday 15th November 2020. Interviews will take place remotely on 25th November 2020. 

The role is on a voluntary basis although relevant expenses may be reimbursed. 

You can email ifcarecruitment@marinemanagement.org.uk or enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk for more information.

Background

There are 10 IFCAs around the English coastline and they are responsible for sustainably managing sea fisheries and conservation within 6 nautical miles from shore. They have the power to make byelaws to protect resources and the environment in their area as well as also enforcing national and European fisheries legislation.

IFCAs are either committees or joint committees of the local authorities that fall within an IFC district. They are tasked with sustainably managing inshore sea fisheries and conserving their local marine environment. They are made up of representatives from local councils along with people from across the different sectors that use or are knowledgeable about the inshore marine area, such as commercial and recreational fishermen, environmental groups and marine researchers, who offer their time voluntarily.

The Marine Management Organisation, Environment Agency and Natural England also each has a statutory seat on the IFCA. Through their local management and funding structures, IFCAs help put local councils, communities and businesses, and individual citizens in the driving seat, allowing them to play a bigger part in the protection and enhancement of their inshore marine environment. 

The MMO is responsible for appointing local people with relevant expertise to IFCA committees. Appointees make up roughly half of IFCA committees and are appointed on a voluntary basis. 

The members of the IFCA contribute their knowledge and expertise to provide sustainable management of the inshore marine area of their IFCA district. They guide the iFCA to deliver its mandate under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 and in line with Defra guidance. 

We seek to achieve a balanced membership across various interest groups, including those with commercial, recreational and environmental interests. We are also keen to appoint people who represent the economic, social and environmental needs of their IFCA district and who, collectively, bring a variety of relevant interests such as fishing groups (commercial and non-commercial), conservation groups and other parties interested in the work of IFCAs.

Each appointment is made for a period of 3 to 5 years, with the possibility of reappointment up to a maximum of 10 years. It is conditional upon the member following terms and conditions (PDF, 210KB, 3 pages) for the appointment. Appointments are made in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments and guidance issued by Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (PDF, 232KB, 9 pages). Appointees must follow relevant IFCA codes of conduct as well as abiding by the terms and conditions of appointment.

1. Application Form (PDF)
2. Information for Candidates (January 2020)

More information on the work of the IFCAs is available from the Association of IFCAs website and from here on the Southern IFCA website. 

21 October 2020 - Hefty fines and forfeiture of fishing gear for visiting illegal net fishers in Southampton Water’s Bass Nursery Area

On 19 ^th October 2020, in the Southampton Magistrates Court, two men pleaded guilty to seven separate fisheries charges, including; taking a quantity of bass below the minimum size, removing bass from a Bass Nursery Area, deliberately fishing for bass using fixed gillnets and using a vessel not registered with the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) to take sea fish for sale from within the IFCA District.

The court heard how, in the early hours of the 17 ^th October 2019, fisheries officers intercepted the Plymouth-based fishing vessel Top Dog, numbered PH5580 at the mouth of the River Itchen in Southampton Water. IFCA officers boarded the visiting fishing vessel, owned by Mr Dean Rollason, and located a number of undersized bass.   The master of the vessel at the time, Mr Shane Barton – a repeating offender, was interviewed under caution and then escorted to a slipway where he left the scene with the vessel in tow.

Following further searches of the area, IFCA officers located a substantial net, marked by a small surface float. The net was in excess of 750metres long, in 13 sections and ran along Weston shoreline, into the River Itchen. Officers immediately hauled the net and were able to return a total of 50 grey mullet, 30 bass, 10 flounder, 5 plaice, 20 dogfish and 5 smooth hounds to the water alive. Further fish were removed from the net, totaling a combined estimated value of £1340. Evidence was later gathered that linked the fishing vessel Top Dog with the unattended illegally-set net. 

Commenting on the case, Ian Jones, Chief Officer of Southern IFCA said, “Bass are a highly prized sea fish, valuable to the local recreational and commercial fishery. The Southampton Water Bass Nursery Area is an important refuge for juvenile fish and legislation is in place to protect stocks. Southern IFCA is committed to the protection of our fish stocks and coastal fisheries. Bass nursery areas legislation allow bass to grow and in turn replenish the seriously depleted stocks. It is very pleasing that this intervention resulted in a substantial quantity of bass, mullet and other species from the net returned to the water alive. The Authority takes the illegal use of nets very seriously. There is a legal net fishery in Southampton Water, however this case highlights the impact that an illegally set net can have on that legitimate fishery. The Authority is grateful for witnesses from the local fishing community and to Associated British Ports, Southampton, and to Dorset Police, who assisted with this prosecution.”

The District Judge ordered Mr Barton and Mr Rollason both of Plymouth, Devon, to pay fines and costs of £4,800 and ordered forfeiture of their fishing net, worth an estimated £1,900.

Further protection for bass has been introduced in recent years. Anyone fishing for bass is advised to check the bass fishing guidance and the local regulations for bass nursery areas.

12 October 2020 National Lead Trainng Officer

Kent and Essex IFCA are administering the recruitment of this post for the Assoiciation of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (AIFCA) role which is home based with travel around England. Please see the details on their website  https://www.kentandessex-ifca.gov.uk/about-us/vacancies/

1 October 2020 - Temporary Closure of Shellfish Beds Byelaw

Southern IFCA Members decided at the September Authority meeting to apply the Temporary Closure Byelaw to all native oyster beds in the Solent, Southampton Water and Portsmouth and Langstone Harbour for the forthcoming 2020/2021 season. Further details can be found here.

1 Sept 2020 - New Chief Executive

Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) welcomes a new Chief Executive at the helm of the organisation from September.

Southern IFCA, the organisation responsible for management of inshore fisheries along the coast of Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight will be led by Ian Jones who joins the Authority with a wealth of fisheries management experience from both the UK and Australia.

Having previously served as Deputy Chief Officer and latterly as the National Lead Training Officer for the Association of IFCAs, Ian is very familiar with the task ahead and the complexities of managing fisheries and conservation issues.

Commenting on his appointment, "I am very excited about serving the coastal communities of Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight. The inshore waters of this coastline are some of the most diverse and important in the country and coastal fishing is a significant part of what makes this area special. I really look forward to working in partnership with the local fishing communities and balancing the needs of the different interests and delivering world class fisheries management in our seas."

Prof John Humphreys Chairman of the Authority said "Ian's appointment will build upon the significant progress we have made in improving coastal fisheries and delivering the conservation in our unique coastal areas. Ian has a strong background in community involvement and I, as well as the members of the Authority, look forward to working with him in his new role."

15 June 2020 - Minimum Conservation Reference Size Byelaw - Formal Consultation

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to sections 155 and 156 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 , Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority intends to apply to the Minister for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for the confirmation of the following byelaw:

Minimum Conservation Reference Size Byelaw

The byelaw prevents the removal of fish and shellfish species below a certain size by all fishers to manage the sustainable exploitation of sea fisheries resources in the Southern IFC District.

Upon confirmation of this byelaw the Minimum Fish Sizes legacy byelaw, the Skates and Rays - Minimum Size legacy byelaw, the American Hard-shelled Clams - Minimum Size legacy byelaw and the Grey Mullet - Minimum Size legacy byelaw will be revoked.

A full text of the above-named Byelaw and Impact Assessment can be inspected at the links provided or obtained from Southern IFCA.

Any person wishing to object to the confirmation of the above-named byelaw must send a statement of objection in writing to:

Marine Conservation and Enforcement Team, Marine Management Organisation, Lancaster House, Hampshire Court, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE4 7YH (or IFCAbyelaws@marinemanagement.org.uk ) and must send a copy of this statement to the CEO at Southern IFCA, Unit 3, Holes Bay Park, Sterte Avenue West, Poole, Dorset BH15 2AA (or enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk ).
 
Objections must be received no later than the 24th July 2020 .
Please click here to view the Minimum Conservation Reference Size Byelaw Frequently Asked Questions Document

8 May 2020 - Consultation on the Poole Harbour Several Order 2015 Management Plan (2020 Revision)

The consultation on the Poole Harbour Several Order 2015 Management Plan (2020 Revision) (‘Management Plan’) is now open. During the period 8 ^th May 2020 to the 29 ^th May 2020 you are invited to submit any specific objections to the proposals contained within the Management Plan in writing to either:

• enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk , or
• Southern IFCA, Unit 3 Holes Bay Park, Sterte Avenue West, Poole, BH15 2AA

The cover letter provides a concise summary of the proposed changes to the Management Plan.

The outcomes of the formal consultation will be presented to The Authority on the 11 ^th June 2020 in order to take account of any representations received in writing from any interested party on the Management Plan and any proposed changes to it.

Under the current Government restrictions (COVID-19), the consultation is being carried out remotely via advertisement on the Southern IFCA website, social media platforms and in addition via email distribution in order to capture any interested parties. Given the current Government restrictions, may I ask that you circulate the Management Plan and accompanying cover letter to any person(s) that you consider may be affected by the Management Plan or the changes contained within .

I thank you in advance for helping Southern IFCA to engage with all interested parties, as far and wide as possible during these unprecedented times.

3 March 2020 - Southern IFCA Volunteer Internship Placements 2020

Southern IFCA is offering an exciting opportunity for two volunteer internship placements during Summer 2020. The successful applicants will lead the delivery of individual projects directly informing inshore fisheries management as part of the Authority's ongoing duties.

The two projects identified are:

• The Solent Oyster Stock Assessment
• The Solent Bivalve Stock Assessment

Each internship placement will last for a period of six weeks between April and September, depending on the project, with an approximate commitment of 20 hours per working week. Working hours and location will be flexible; however, volunteers will be required to work from the Southern IFCA office in Poole for a minimum of one day per week. Volunteers will be supported by a project mentor and, as part of the placement, Southern IFCA will provide training opportunities in key areas that enable volunteers to develop their experience and understanding of inshore fisheries management.

Information about the individual project opportunities, together with the experience, knowledge and skills required can be found in the individual project role profiles. The Southern IFCA Policy and Guidance for Engaging Volunteers describes what volunteers should expect from Southern IFCA and how volunteers should conduct themselves whilst involved with the Authority.To view a copy of this Policy please click here.

Please click here to view the 2020 Volunteer Internship Placement Role Profiles

Applying for a Placement
To apply for a placement, applicants are required to submit the following:

• a copy of their CV; and
• a letter outlining which project(s) they would be interested in applying for and explaining, in no more than 1000 words, why they would be suitable for the role.

Applications should be sent to the Southern IFCA office titled ‘2020 Internships’ by email ( enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk ) or post (Unit 3, Holes Bay Park, Sterte Avenue West, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2AA) by 17:00 on Sunday 22nd March . Full information on the interview arrangements will be sent to those candidates who have been short listed.

October 2019 - Solent Oyster Temporary Closure Notice 2019-20

Following consideration of the best available evidence, which indicates severe depletion of the native oyster beds in the Solent, a decision was made at the September meeting of the Authority to apply the Temporary Closure of Shellfish Beds Byelaw (‘Temporary Closure Byelaw’) to all native oyster beds in the Solent, Southampton Water and Portsmouth and Langstone Harbour for the forthcoming 2019/2020 season. Further details can be found here.

July 2019 - Southern IFCA Moving

Southern IFCA wil be moving premises the week of 15 July 2019. There may be some disruption to emails and telephones at times that week so please do try again later if you cannot get through to the person you need.  The new postal addess is Southern IFCA, Unit 3 Holes Bay Park, Sterte Avenue West, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2AA. Telephone and email details will not be changing. Hoping to be back up to normal duties by 19 July 2019. 

May 2019 - Quarterly Newletter 1/2019

Please view the quarterly newsletter here

14 March 2019 - Scallop Dredger Caught in Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area

In a case heard in Weymouth Magistrates Court the Plymouth based scallop fishing dredger Cristal Waters FY34 was found to have used scallop dredges within the Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area, contrary to the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) Bottom Towed Fishing Gear Byelaw 2016.
Weymouth Magistrates heard that on the 5th July 2018 the Fishing Vessel Cristal Waters was intercepted by a Southern IFCA Fisheries Protection Vessel approximately 3 miles offshore from Burton Bradstock and consequently some 200m inside the protected area. Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officers (IFCOs) observed the vessel to have scallop dredges over the side of the vessel which were full of scallops.
Southern IFCA is responsible for the management of fisheries off the coast of Hampshire Dorset and the Isle of Wight. The IFCA has a range of byelaws to protect fisheries and the marine environment and operates four patrols vessels in coastal waters.
Commenting on the case, Robert Clark, Chief Officer of Southern IFCA said “The Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area is designated for the protection of mud stone reefs for which it is considered to be one of the best areas in the United Kingdom. The protected mud stone reefs provide a habitat for species including sea fans, sponges and corals. These habitats in turn attract many fish and crustacea. Fishing is allowed in the marine protected area, as long as the activities are not damaging to the seabed or to nature conservation. Coastal fishing communities from Lyme Regis, West Bay and elsewhere rely upon this productive ecosystem for their livelihoods. Illegal fishing, which damages the reefs, threatens both the marine environment and these coastal fishing communities. Southern IFCA byelaws protect this important and fragile habitat.”
The master of the vessel Cristal Waters Matthew David Bull, 40 of Exmouth, in Devon failed to appear in Weymouth Magistrates Court on the 21st January 2019 to answer the charges and in his absence, he was sentenced with a fine of £3000, costs of £2192 and a victim surcharge of £170, making a total of £5362.

15 January 2019 - Public Consultation on the Solent Dredge Permit Byelaw

Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 Section 155 and 156

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to the above-named Regulation, Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority intends to apply to the Minister for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for the confirmation of the following byelaw:

Solent Dredge Permit Byelaw
This byelaw prohibits the use of a dredge by means of a vessel within the Solent unless authorised by a Category A or Category B permit. The permits are subject to specific conditions. The byelaw seeks to support the development of sustainable bivalve fisheries in the Solent.

Upon implementation of this byelaw the Solent Dredge Byelaw will be revoked and the Scallop Dredge Byelaw will be amended.

A full text of the above-named Byelaw , supporting papers ( Access Policy, Management Intentions Document and a Summary of Provisions guide) and associated assessments ( HRAs ( SACs & SPAs ) and Impact Assessments ) can be inspected at the links provided or obtained from the Southern IFCA, 64 Ashley Road, Poole, Dorset BH14 9BN.

Any person wishing to object to the confirmation of the above-named byelaw must send a statement of objection in writing to:
Marine Conservation and Enforcement Team, Marine Management Organisation, Lancaster House, Hampshire Court, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE4 7YH (or IFCAbyelaws@marinemanagement.org.uk ) and must send a copy of this statement to the CEO at Southern IFCA, 64 Ashley Road, Poole, Dorset BH14 9BN (or enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk ). Objections must be received no later than the 28 ^th February 2019.

5 Nov 2018 - Southern IFCA Net Fishing Review - Stakeholder Drop-in Sessions

Southern IFCA is undertaking a review of net fishing management arrangements for estuary, harbour and pier areas in the District. As part of this review the Authority is undertaking an eight-week public consultation to seek your views on a series of proposed measures. The closing date for this consultation is Friday 7th December 2018.

Open access stakeholder drop-in sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about our proposed measures and the review process. Southern IFCA Officers will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the review and recieve your feedback. Meetings will be held on the following dates:

• Thursday 15th November - Yarmouth - Yarmouth Sailing Club, PO41 0NL - 15:00 to 19:00
• Tuesday 20th November - Portsmouth - Eastney Cruising Association, PO4 9LY - 15:00 to 19:00
• Wednesday 21st November - Poole - North Haven Yacht Club, BH13 7QB - 15:00 to 19:00
• Tuesday 27th November - Bridport - The Salthouse, DT6 4HB - 15:00 to 19:00
• Wednesday 28th November - Bembridge - Bembridge Angling Club, PO33 1XJ - 15:00 to 19:00

Further information on the review can be found in the Southern IFCA Consultation Document for net fishing management for estuaries, harbours and piers in Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and in the Supporting Evidence Document.

12 Oct 2018 - Solent Oyster Fishery 2018/19- Important Information

So as to aid the recovery of oyster beds the Temporary Closure of Shellfish Beds byelaw has the effect to close the oyster beds in the Solent, Southampton Water and Langstone Harbour. The byelaw shall not be applied to Portsmouth Harbour and Ryde Middle Bank. The decision to apply this byelaw, temporarily, to the Solent is because there is evidence of severe depletion of the shellfish beds in that area. The byelaw is temporary, it is the intention of the Authority to continue to work with industry and other partners to rebuild oyster stocks and develop the fishery for the future. Please click here for more information.

11 Oct 2018 - Southern IFCA Review of Net Fishing Management

Southern IFCA is undertaking a review of net fishing management arrangements for estuary, harbour and pier areas in the district.

At this stage we are undertaking an eight-week public consultation to seek your views on a series of proposed measures. The closing date for this consultation is Friday 7th December 2018 .

Please contact enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk or call 01202 721373 if you wish to arrange a meeting with an officer. A series of stakeholder drop-in sessions will be held during November 2018 at locations throughout the district. Details of these events will be advertised here shortly.

This consultation process will inform the development of any future management, it is therefore important that you provide evidence-based feedback in your response. Upon the conclusion of this consultation a summary of the responses received will be published on the Authority’s website, together with any further developments as part of this review, including information about any further public consultation. Following a review of this and any further evidence the Authority will consider whether regulation by way of byelaw is necessary and justified. If a byelaw is made, prior to confirmation, it will subject to a formal consultation and stakeholders will have an opportunity at this stage to make representations. The byelaw will only come into force following confirmation by the Secretary of State. Details of this process may be found http://www.association-ifca.org.uk/Upload/About/ifca-byelaw-guidance.pdf

Southern IFCA Consultation Document
Southern IFCA Supporting Evidence
DEFRA – Protection of Freshwater and Migratory Species
Environment Agency – Review of Protection Measures for Atlantic Salmon and Sea Trout in Inshore Waters
Natural England – Advice on the Conservation Status of Atlantic Salmon and Sea Trout

4 Oct 2018 - DEFRA Consultation - Inshore Vessel Monitoring Systems

Defra are holding a consultation seeking views on introducing I-VMS for all UK licenced fishing boats under 12 metres that are fishing in English waters. This consultation is being held at https://consult.defra.gov.uk/marine-management/introduction-of-inshore-vessel-monitoring-systems/ This consultation closes at 5pm on 14 November 2018.

1 Oct 2018 - Solent Oyster Season

On the 27th September Members of the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority approved the application of the ‘Temporary Closure of Shellfish Beds Byelaw’ to all oyster beds in the Solent from the 1st November 2018 until the 28th February 2019, based on best available evidence, with the exception of the following beds:
Ryde Middle
Beds contained within Portsmouth Harbour.
The map shows the area of Ryde Middle which will be open to fish for oysters from the 1st November 2018. Ryde Middle shall be defined as the area enclosed by a series of straight lines drawn:
From 50° 45.696’N 001° 11.52W;
To 50° 46.188’N 001° 16.146W;
To 50° 46.998’N 001° 16.146W;
To 50° 46.506’N 001° 11.52W.
All other applicable Southern IFCA byelaws will still apply
Further details regarding this decision can be found by contacting the Southern IFCA office via email ( enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk ) or on 01202721373.
For information concerning Shellfish Classifications please contact your Local Environmental Health Officer.
For more information on the management of these fisheries please see Fisheries Management Plans

9 July 2018 - Local Fisheries Managers given 'Best Innovator' Award by Marine Stewardship Council

Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority, has been given the "best innovator" award at the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)'s 2018 awards night.
Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) was awarded "best innovator" for its efforts in "leading and championing a sustainable marine environment and inshore fisheries".
 MSC has worked with Southern IFCA for a long time and has witnessed great commitment towards sustainability, it said. At the awards, MSC commended the IFCA’s partnership with Poole & District Fisherman’s Association to ensure good management of their fisheries, and the certification of Poole Harbour cockles and clams this year. 
The IFCA was also commended for following through on "Project Inshore" using the MSC standard for sustainable fishing, by assessing what was needed to manage the inshore fishery and impact on sensitive inshore habitats.
The recommendations were put in place by Southern IFCA and the fishing industry "through hard work and innovation over the last few years, and the improvements were commended at the MSC awards". 
Southern IFCA took a novel approach to eradicate illegal fishing from their fishery, mainly to do with innovative policy, but even extending to low profile patrol boats to get under bridges. The decision to grant an MSC certificate to the Poole Harbour clam and cockle fishery is a vote of confidence in the fishery, the certification group said.
Rob Clark, chief officer for Southern IFCA, said: "It’s an absolute honour to accept this award on behalf of the Southern IFCA. The development of management which has led to the turnaround and transformation of the fishery is as a consequence of the hard work of many people and organisations who worked together to achieve a sustainable fishery. This award reflects the brilliant work of all those involved, in particular, the fishermen and their leaders, who recognized the benefits of working together to deliver improvements."   
Other winners included:

• J Sainsbury, supermarket of the year
• Waitrose, fish counter of the year
• Lidl, mid-size store retailer of the year
• John West, canned brand of the year
• Birds Eye, frozen brand of the year
• Sainsbury's, for UK marketing campaign of the year
• New England Seafood International?, retail supplier of the year
• Café Rouge, MSC?UK menu of the year
• Mitch Tonks, chef of the year
• Brakes, foodservice wholesaler of the year
• M&J Seafood, fresh foodservice wholesaler of the year
• University of Nottingham, MSC university of the?year
• The Reel Fish Co, newcomer of the year

9 July 2018 - Viviers UK fined for undersized whelks

At Portsmouth Magistrates Court on the 2nd of July Viviers UK Ltd., owners of the registered fishing vessel P11 “Ask Me” and Mr Paul Lambert then master of the Portsmouth based boat were fined and ordered to pay costs of £8,666 for illegal fishing.
Lambert & Viviers UK entered guilty pleas and were both ordered to pay a fine of £2,500, costs of £1,663 each and a victim surcharge of £170.
The court heard that Lambert had been issued with two very recent verbal warnings prior to him committing the offence. The bench considered Portsmouth based Viviers UK prior convictions for illegal fishing.
Southern IFCA presented evidence that the minimum landing size for whelks is a key measure to protect stocks. Whelks are slow growing whelk and consequently vulnerable to over exploitation.
Commenting on the case for Southern IFCA a spokesperson said “Illegal fishing threatens for the sustainability of the stock in the Solent. Legitimate fishermen are losing out because of the actions of those who not take adequate measures to ensure that they land only mature shellfish”.

2 June 2018 - Wareham Channel - Seasonal Upgrade

Poole Council Environmental Health have issued a notice to fishermen of a change in Food Standards Agency classification of Wareham Channel. Please see the letter here.

24 May 2018 - Inshore Potting Review - Call for Information

Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) is starting a review of the existing management arrangements for potting fisheries within the Southern IFCA district. To begin this process we are seeking the fishing communities views on current pot fisheries for whelks, cuttlefish and crab and lobster.

Fishing with pots for shellfish is really important to coastal communities in Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight and for some species represents an inshore fishing activity which has been carried out for generations. In order to support these coastal communities and the future sustainability of fishing, Southern IFCA has begun a process to review the management arrangements for these inshore pot fisheries. We are at the start of this process and want to hear your views from the outset.

As a guide, we are asking stakeholders to consider a response to the following questions:

1. Do you currently fish for pots in the Southern IFCA district? If yes, please specify area fished and target species.
2. What are your views on the current inshore pot fisheries in your local area?
3. What improvements would you like to see in these fisheries? If any?
4. How do you think these improvements could be achieved?
5. Please provide any more information you think would be helpful.

To begin this process, we have written to all fishermen who hold a Southern IFCA permit and indicate they go potting and have also been in contact with local fishermen’s associations. Please click here to see a copy of the letter sent to fishermen.

We are asking for responses in writing, either by email or letter, on or before 29th June 2018 . Prior to this date, we encourage stakeholders to discuss views and opinions with Southern IFCA officers and are happy to arrange meetings with officers.

Please respond:

By email: enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk

In writing: Southern IFCA, 64 Ashley Road, Parkstone, Poole, Dorset, BH14 9BN

The information received during this process will be used to consider what, if any, further measures may be taken to support local fisheries. If further measures are identified we will conduct a period of informal consultation during late 2018.

At the end of this ‘call for information’ we will summarise the responses received and place this summary on our website at www.southern-ifca.gov.uk .

Copies of responses will be made available to the public on request. If you do not want your response, including your name, contact details and any other personal information, to be made available publicly, please so say clearly in writing when you send your response to the consultation. Please explain why you need to keep details confidential. We will take your reasons into account if someone asks for this information under the freedom of information legislation. Because of these laws, we cannot promise that we will always be able to keep these details confidential.

We looking forward to hearing from you.

12 February 2018 - Internship Projects

Southern IFCA is offering an exciting opportunity for three volunteer internship placements during Summer 2018. The successful applicants will lead the delivery of individual projects directly informing inshore fisheries management as part of the Authority's ongoing duties.
Internships will last for a period of six weeks between April and September, depending on the project, with an approximate commitment of 20 hours per working week. Working hours and location will be flexible; however volunteers will be required to work from the Southern IFCA office for a minimum of one day per week. Volunteers will be supported by a project mentor and as part of the placement Southern IFCA will provide training opportunities in key areas that enable volunteers to develop their experience and understanding of inshore fisheries management.
The Southern IFCA Policy and Guidance for Engaging Volunteers describes what volunteers should expect from Southern IFCA and how volunteers should conduct themselves whilst involved with the Authority.
To apply for the placements applicants should send a copy of their CV together with a letter outlining which project(s) they would be interested in applying for and explaining in no more than 1000 words why they would be suitable for the role. Applications should be sent to the Southern IFCA office titled '2018 Internships' by email ( enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk ) or post by 12 noon on Monday 5th March 2018. Full information on the interview arrangements will be sent to those candidates who have been short listed.

1 February 2018 - Guidance on Bass Fishing

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has published guidance on bass fishing in 2018 for fishermen in England. This follows publication of Council Regulation 2018/120 within the Official Journal of the European Union.
The European Commission has determined that bass stocks remain under pressure despite the measures taken in previous years. It has placed further restrictions on the commercial and recrational fishing sectors in order to address this. The regulations apply to all vessels. Please click here for the Guidance on 2018 Bass Fishing

20 November 2017 - Important Information on New Fishing Byelaws - Please Read

New management has been introduced for methods of bottom towed fishing gear within the coastal waters of Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight following the confirmation of two new Southern IFCA byelaws by the Secretary of State.

In order to further the conservation objectives of the District's marine protected areas and to enhance the environmental, socio-economic and fisheries sustainability of the Southern IFC District, Southern IFCA has introduced two new byelaws:

The Solent Dredge Fishing Byelaw prohibits the use of fishing dredges within all areas of Portsmouth Harbour, Langstone Harbour and Southampton Water between 1st March and 31st October inclusive each year and between 17.00 and 07.00 hours each day. During these closed periods a person must not retain on board a vessel, or store or transport a dredge by means of a vessel unless all parts of the dredge are inboard and above the sea. 

In addition to existing spatial closures, the Bottom Towed Fishing Gear Byelaw 2016   introduces new closure areas for all methods of bottom towed gear fishing within parts of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Solent, Langstone Harbour, Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton Water, Poole Bay and Lyme Bay. Whilst transiting through any of these areas all parts of bottom towed fishing gear must be inboard and above the sea. Detailed maps of the closed areas can be found here.

All fishers who plan to use bottom towed fishing gear within the Southern IFC District should be familiar with these new regulations. Southern IFCA officers will be working with the community throughout the District to ensure fishers are familiar with these new regulations and additional patrols will be organised to monitor compliance. Both byelaws are now in place and the measures will be enforced by Southern IFCA.

Full copies of both byelaws, together with associated documents can be found on the Southern IFCA website (www.southern-ifca.gov.uk). If you would like any further information please call Southern IFCA on 01202 721373 or email enquiries@southern-ifca.gov.uk.

02 August 2017 - Wrasse Fishery Guidance

Southern IFCA has a duty to manage the exploitation of sea fisheries resources in the coastal waters of Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to ensure a sustainable marine environment and inshore fisheries, by successfully securing the right balance between social, environmental and economic benefits to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry.

Over the past two years a new fishery for live wrasse has developed on the South coast of England. Fish are transported to Scottish salmon farms to be used as cleaner fish for the removal of sea-lice as a biological alternative to the use of anti-parasitic chemical treatments.

Southern IFCA has, in collaboration with other South-west IFCAs, developed a co-ordinated management response to the developing live wrasse fishery through identifying a range of important management measures and research priorities. At an Authority meeting on 29 ^th June, Southern IFCA Committee Members chose to adopt new management for the district’s fishery for live wrasse. These measures require fishers to observe a range of measures designed to preserve the long term sustainability of the local wrasse populations.

A range of species specific maximum and minimum sizes have been developed in order to maintain recruitment into the fishery through aligning minimum sizes above the size of sexual maturity. The maximum size will serve to maintain a balanced population structure through protecting the larger established family groups from capture. Maximum sizes are particularly effective at protecting the longer-lived and larger growing wrasse species which employ a hermaphrodite reproductive strategy.

No take zones are believed to afford effective and long-term protection for species with high site fidelity and small home ranges/territories, like those exhibited by local wrasse species (Morel et al., 2013). A series of no take zones and no potting zones have been developed within the Southern IFCA district, in many cases overlapping with the boundaries of Marine Protected Areas. In addition, popular sites for recreational sea fishing have been included as no take zones in order to reduce conflict between users and to ease the pressure on wrasse populations in these areas.

A fishing closed season from April to June (inclusive) has also been introduced to protect wrasse populations during their peak spawning period. Additional measures include a restriction on the placing of wrasse pots to waters less than 10m deep to protect the survivability of catches together with a restriction of 80 pots per vessel in order to restrict fishing effort.

In collaboration with a range of partners including Natural England and industry operators, Southern IFCA has commenced a programme of study to improve our understanding of the fishery and its effects on the marine environment. Research techniques include the collection of fishery catch data, catch sampling and the development of a PhD.

In developing this approach the Authority has demonstrated its commitment to delivering an evidence-led approach to managing a sustainable fishery for live wrasse in the district. Through our ongoing compliance and enforcement strategy and in collaboration with colleagues in the Marine Management Organisation and CEFAS, we will continue to monitor the success of these measures.

Please click here to view the Wrasse fishery Guidance

20 June 2017 - Two Portsmouth Fishermen Found Guilty for Obstructing Fisheries Officers

Two Portsmouth Fishermen, fishing in Southampton Water, have been found guilty of obstructing Fisheries Officers and ordered to pay fines and costs.

The case was brought by the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA).

Appearing before the Southampton Magistrates Court on the 5th June 2017, Mr Kevin Smith, 53, and Mr Aston Stallard, 24, both from the Portsmouth area, were found guilty of obstructing Fisheries Officers, contrary to the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.

At the trial, the Magistrates heard that on 30th August 2016, in the Ashlett Creek area of Southampton Water, Mr Smith positioned his fishing vessel, Phantom P300, so as to obstruct Fisheries Officers and how his crewmember Mr Stallard discarded the vessels catch over the side of the vessel before it could be inspected.

Fisheries Officers of the Southern IFCA regularly patrol Southampton Water and the Solent to ensure that closed areas are protected and that fishermen adhere to the minimum sizes of fish and shellfish. The obstruction of Fisheries Officers and failure to comply with their requests is an offence.

Commenting on the case, IFCA Deputy Chief Officer, Neil Richardson said, "Minimum size legislation is an essential management tool to ensure that there is enough stock left on the grounds to support the fishery and the fishermen in the region who rely on them. Southern IFCA is committed to protecting the fishery to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry. This type of illegal activity and the behaviour of these individuals will not be tolerated and we will pursue such matters robustly through court".

Robert Clark, Chief Officer for Southern IFCA, said, "the protection of the future stocks is in everyone's interest. We aim to ensure that the actions of a few individuals do not jeopardise sustainable fisheries and the communitites they support".

Mr Kevin Smith was ordered to pay fines and costs totalling £5,195 and Mr Aston Stallard was ordered to pay fines and costs totalling £5,195.

Any information relating to illegal fishing activity can be reported to the Authority in confidence on 01202 721373.