The Marine Management Organisation published advice on 21 October 2026 to help UK fishermen comply with regulatory changes in EU waters. According to the agency, the changes took effect on 10 January 2026 and cover how nets, pots and lines are marked, electronic logbook reporting, and Vessel Monitoring System reporting.

The rules apply only in the waters of EU Member States. The MMO said they form part of EU law, so enforcement falls to EU countries rather than the UK body. The MMO and Defra said they were continuing to work with the European Commission and EU Member States to clarify how the rules would be applied and enforced.

Fishermen working in EU waters were directed to published information setting out what is now required and advising steps to reduce the risk of non-compliance.