Following the allocation of lumpfish numerous questions arose among registered parties and it was evident from the submissions that there is a very mixed understanding of the new rules.

We have therefore compiled the main points regarding implementation of the fishery:

• All vessels with commercial fishing permit may engage in lumpfish fishing, but they must have a catch quota for lumpfish and land the catch in a landing port within the vessel’s regional fishing area.

• Lumpfish catch quota may be transferred between vessels that have home port in the same regional fishing area.

• Vessels with catch quota for lumpfish, including hook-and-line vessels, may use lumpfish nets.

• Lumpfish caught as by-catch when fishing for pelagic fish is not considered a catch quota according to regulation.

Other important information:

• Lumpfish may be recorded as VS catch regardless of the area.
• Species transfer is used for catches in excess of the quota regardless of the area not recorded as VS catch.
• Lumpfish landed outside fishing area is considered illegal catch.
• Catches in excess of the quota are considered illegal catch.
• Discarding of viable lumpfish is prohibited by regulation.

Inquiries regarding the increase in catch quota for lumpfish should be directed to the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute.