European eel (Anguilla anguilla) throughout its natural range

ICES advice on fishing opportunities

ICES advises that when the precautionary approach is applied, there should be zero catches in all habitats in 2025. This applies to both recreational and commercial catches and includes catches of glass eels for restocking and aquaculture.

Non-fisheries conservation considerations

Based on ecosystem‑based management, ICES considers that:

• all non-fisheries related anthropogenic mortalities should be reduced to zero.
• the quantity and quality of eel habitats should be restored; this includes restoring connectivity and the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the habitats.