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.