European lobster

The stock of European lobster in these areas is in reasonably good condition. Biomass has fluctuated around the sustainable level in recent years but has declined slightly and is now just below that level. Current fishing pressure is below the sustainable level, although relatively large numbers of undersized lobsters are caught.

Lobster pots are a selective fishing method with little bycatch and limited impact on the seabed. Discards are relatively high, at around 30%, mainly because of the bait used. The likelihood of changes to the ecosystem is low, although lost fishing gear can continue catching animals for some time. CO₂ emissions are average.

Management is considered largely effective. The stock is well monitored, and fishing is restricted through licences, a maximum number of pots and effort limitations. The fishery is jointly managed by France and the United Kingdom, although it remains unclear whether recent management measures have had sufficient effect. Measures against illegal fishing are effective, and most of the fishery is MSC-certified.

European lobster has been MSC-certified since 2011. The fishery is spread across Normandy and Jersey. Management has always been a high priority for this fishery. MSC-certified European lobster is caught using pots and traps.

The stock of European lobster in Norway is in poor condition. The stock has remained at a very low level for a long time and shows no signs of recovery. Due to a lack of reliable data and substantial underreporting of catches, the size of the stock is uncertain. Research shows that the population has declined by more than 90% since 1928. Given the species’ low resilience and relatively high fishing pressure, recovery is unlikely under current conditions.

Lobster pots have little impact on the seabed and result in little bycatch. Discards consist mainly of undersized lobsters and other crustaceans, which generally have a high chance of survival. CO₂ emissions and the risk of lost fishing gear are moderate.

Management is ineffective. An effective management plan is lacking, and actual catches are estimated to be approximately fourteen times higher than officially reported landings.