This Recommendation establishes a multiannual management plan for sustainable pelagic fishing activities in the Mediterranean (geographical subareas 1 to 27) targeting common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) by means of FADs and recreational fishing. The provisions of this Recommendation shall not apply to other professional fisheries (i.e. pelagic, demersal and coastal) with bycatch of common dolphinfish. The purpose of the multiannual management plan is to to provide high long-term yields consistent with the MSY and to guarantee a low risk of stock collapse while maintaining the sustainability and relative stability of fisheries and dependent industries. This Recommendation requires contracting parties and cooperating non-contracting parties whose vessels are actively fishing in GSAs 1 to 27 to implement such a multiannual management plan for the fisheries concerned and in accordance with the general and specific objectives and measures laid down in this Recommendation. A set of transitional precautionary measures for managing common dolphinfish in the Mediterranean Sea shall be established to support the sustainability of fish stocks and fisheries. These measures aim to maintain or improve biological sustainability while minimizing socioeconomic effects, with final scientific recommendations provided by the SAC. In 2024, 2025 and 2026, a transitional fishing regime shall be established for FAD fisheries targeting common dolphinfish. A long-term management plan for the period 2027–2031 shall be established. The multiannual management plan for the concerned fisheries shall also achieve a reduction in illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities in GSAs 1 to 27. Part IX of this Recommendation lays down specific measures to address illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
2023-01-01