Sea anglers are reminded that size matters when it comes to deciding whether to keep fish they catch.
 
Bye-laws governing landing sizes apply not only to commercial fishermen but also to recreational anglers, says the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.
 
The Mean Landing Sizes stipulated in the Sea-Fisheries (Technical Measures) Bye-Laws, which were passed in 2000, conserve fish populations by ensuring that enough fish reach the size at which they are able to reproduce.
 
Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: “With such a spectacular and varied coastline, it’s no surprise that sea angling is popular on the Isle of Man and I am keen to see the Island promoted as a great destination for angling holidays.
 
“Abiding by the bye-laws sets a good example to other anglers and helps ensure that sea angling continues to be a sustainable as well as enjoyable way for people of all ages to use our natural resources.”
 
Mean landing sizes are displayed at harbours and on the recreational fishing page of the Isle of Man Government website, www.gov.im. 
 
Keeping an under-size fish – or a salmon or sea trout of any size caught at sea – is an offence under the Fisheries Act 2012 punishable with a fine of up to ?1,000.