Dutch fisheries policy

The aim of Dutch fisheries policy: a sustainable fishing industry

Dutch fisheries policy for coastal and inland waters is aimed at making fisheries more sustainable.

The government, the fishing industry and the European Union (EU) are working together to develop new, more sustainable fishing methods. Sustainable management of fish stocks is also good economics. The new fishing methods do not damage the seabed and prevent unwanted by-catch, like pulse trawling or the collection of mussel seed detached from the seabed.

Coastal and inland fisheries

More information about the rules on fishing in coastal and inland waters can be obtained from:

• Netherlands Enterprise Agency;
• Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority.

Recreational fishing

Recreational anglers must comply with several rules and regulations, including the requirement that they have a fishing licence (VISpas).

Sustainability labels for fish

Consumers can support sustainable fishing practices by buying fish that has been caught or farmed using certified sustainable methods. The most important certifying bodies for sustainable fisheries are:

• MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) for fish caught in the wild. This organisation sets standards for sustainable fishing and fish processing. It works together with scientists and government authorities.
• ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) which sets standards for fish farms.