Improving inshore fisheries data: Consultation on requiring electronic tracking and monitoring technology on under 12 metre commercial fishing vessels

Context

8. Currently, tracking devices that transmit or store fishing vessel locations while at sea are generally limited to larger vessels. Since 2012it has been a requirement for all EU fishing vessels which are 12 metres and over in length to be fitted with a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS).^[8] This requirement currently forms part of retained EU law in the UK (subject to certain amendments).^[9] VMS transmits vessel positional data to a satellite which then sends it to the relevant fisheries administration who monitor position, course, speed and other parameters. The data generated can be used for fisheries management, environmental protection and to identify key fishing areas in marine planning.

9. REM systems can support more comprehensive data collection in fisheries, using imagery, sensors and global positioning systems (GPS) to independently monitor operations at sea, such as effort and catch. The components of REM systems can differ depending on the monitoring, control and surveillance objectives for which they are used, and do not necessarily need to include the use of cameras.

10. In Scotland, the majority of vessels less than 12 metres in length (most of which fish predominantly within inshore waters) are not currently required to carry on-board tracking devices or REM systems. As such, our understanding of the activities of these vessels operating in Scottish waters (or Scottish vessels operating outwith Scottish waters) is limited. Some information can be derived about location of catch through statutory returns (logbooks, FISH 1 forms and sales notes), but this is gathered retrospectively, and there is no means of verifying its accuracy.

11. Improving the monitoring of inshore fishing vessels is an important component in assuring compliance with regulations, including spatial restrictions, such as MPAs. In addition, the scientific data available in relation to shellfish stocks varies spatially, and there is limited data in relation to fishing effort and its spatio-temporal distribution (e.g. the quantity and location of fishing gear in the water, and its seasonal depolyment). Onboard vessel tracking devices and REM systems offer opportunities to greatly improve this evidence base.

12. In July 2023 the Scottish Government published outcome reports for consultations on a Future Catching Policy (FCP) and the use of REM systems on certain fleet segments.^{[10], [11]} The FCP consultation covered a range of fisheries management proposals, many aimed at addressing long-running operational issues with the landing obligation, which bans the discarding of fish. It also sought views on the introduction of creel limits for static gears. Whilst the REM consultation was focused on the pelagic and scallop dredge fleet, it recognised the need to take a tailored approach to tracking and monitoring solutions.^[12] These policies, coupled with this consultation, are interlinked and form important steps in ensuring that fishing activity within Scottish waters is carried out sustainably and responsibly.