Protected species

Some fish species are protected and must not be taken:

  • at any time
  • during certain stages of their life cycle, for example during their reproductive period
  • during certain times of the year
  • from particular closed areas or reserves.

If you catch a protected species you must return it to the water immediately.

Learn how to handle your catch and safely release the fish back into the water.

Anyone who takes or causes harm to a protected species may face heavy fines.

View protected species

View protected freshwater and marine species on the fishing limits search page.

Page last reviewed: 22 Mar 2022

 


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