On 29 September 2025, the options for proposed fisheries management measures for PMFs within inshore waters were published on NMPi. This is in line with the commitment made by the Cabinet Secretary in May to ensure that stakeholders have sufficient time to consider the options ahead of the public consultation
The proposed measures are for the 11 PMFs most at risk from bottom trawling and dredging outside Marine Protected Areas. These 11 PMFs play a key role in in maintaining the health of our marine ecosystem, protecting our natural heritage and securing a sustainable future for marine life and our society.
All proposals are evidence-led, with scientific advice provided by NatureScot and extensive in person engagement with stakeholders to gather evidence on fishing activity to inform the PMF management areas.
The fisheries management measures for all the proposed PMF management areas will prohibit bottom-contacting mobile gear. The difference between option 1 and option 2 will be the size of area the measures cover. There is no difference in the type of fishing activity proposed in the options.
The publishing of the proposed measures for PMFs is part of a phased rollout. The proposed fisheries management measures for the inshore MPA sites will be released at different dates, once statutory assessments have been completed prior to the consultation being launched.
We aim to launch the consultation for the proposed fisheries management measures for inshore MPAs in November 2025.
Links to the NMPi layers:
NatureScot has published their advice documents for the 11 PMFs most at risk to bottom contact mobile gear on their website and can be found at PMF advice documents | NatureScot. NatureScot will also be publishing supplementary advice that was used in the development of the proposed PMF management areas in the next couple of weeks.
