The Balearic Islands Government seizes 14 undersized lemonfish caught by recreational fishermen in Ibiza

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment from Balearic Islands, through the fisheries inspection staff of the Directorate General of Fisheries, has seized 14 undersized lemonfish from recreational fishermen. Specifically, the seized specimens were between 26 and 29 cm in size, when the minimum catch size is 35 cm. The offence was committed in Formentera, in Punta Prima, within the Freus Marine Reserve of Ibiza and Formentera, and the boat came from Ibiza. In addition, the specimens had not had their caudal fin lobe cut, as required by Balearic regulations since 2014.

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Environment, Joan Simonet, has stressed "the importance of maintaining these surveillance controls to ensure compliance with the regulations". In addition, he has pointed out that "respecting the minimum catch sizes is essential to guarantee sustainable fishing and for the conservation of marine resources".

It should be noted that last June and in agreement with the sector, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Environment increased the minimum size for recreational fishing of lemonfish and set a permanent minimum catch size of 35 cm. From 1999 until the modification in June, the minimum size allowed for fishing was 30 cm. Therefore, neither with the current regulation nor with the previous one, the greenfinned fish confiscated complied with the minimum catch size.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment is responsible for processing the complaint. According to Law 6/2013, of 7 November, on maritime fishing, shellfish farming and aquaculture in the Balearic Islands, the possession and marketing of undersized fish from recreational fishing constitutes a very serious offence and can be punished with a fine of up to 60,000 euros, in addition to the confiscation of the goods.