Minister confirms 2026 eel fishery measures for Lough Neagh
The Minister has confirmed that work is being progressed as a priority to develop a temporary cessation scheme to support permit holders affected by the closure of the yellow eel fishery
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has today confirmed a series of measures for the 2026 Lough Neagh eel fishery, aimed at ensuring the sustainable management and long-term recovery of stocks.
For the 2026 season, the following measures will apply:
- A total allowable catch of 25 tonnes, exclusively for the silver eel fishery
- A maximum landing size of 90 centimetres
- Closure of the yellow eel fishery for a period of three years, commencing in 2026
These new measures are informed by scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and reflect the Department’s statutory responsibilities to protect the European eel, which is classified as critically endangered. The Department has been engaging with the Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Co-Operative Society Ltd, the owner of eel fishing rights for Lough Neagh, regarding the development of these measures.
Minister Muir acknowledged the importance of the fishery to local communities while emphasising the need for decisive action. He said: “Eel fishing is an important industry and intrinsic part of the history and heritage of communities living around Lough Neagh. These measures are necessary to support the recovery of eel stocks and to ensure that this important fishery can be sustained into the future. I recognise the implication of these measures, particularly of the yellow eel fishery closure, on fishers and their families.”
The Minister has confirmed that work is being progressed as a priority to develop a temporary cessation scheme to support permit holders affected by the closure of the yellow eel fishery.
He added: “I am committed to bringing forward support proposals at pace. It is essential that those affected have clarity as soon as possible.”
The Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Co‑operative Society (LNFCS) has been informed of the Minister’s decisions, and officials will continue to engage closely with stakeholders.