Story perspectives

Complete Ban on Eel Catching Proposed for Recovery

8/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

AFBI research indicates rising populations of glass eels and elvers in Northern Ireland's Lough Neagh, Lough Erne, and Strangford Lough.
The conservation target of 200 tonnes of silver eels escaping from Lough Neagh has not been met for three years, leading to a review.
Current recommendations suggest a complete ban on catching all eel life stages to aid recovery.
Daera supports PhD research on nature-based solutions, including pike management and eel protection.

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Story summary

AFBI research indicates rising populations of glass eels and elvers in Northern Ireland's Lough Neagh, Lough Erne, and Strangford Lough.
The conservation target of 200 tonnes of silver eels escaping from Lough Neagh has not been met for three years, leading to a review.
Current recommendations suggest a complete ban on catching all eel life stages to aid recovery.
Daera supports PhD research on nature-based solutions, including pike management and eel protection.