The Isles of Scilly Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority (IFCA) met on Thursday 25 June 2026, adopting its constitution and annual plan for the upcoming year. The meeting also saw significant discussion and support for the development of a crawfish hatchery.

Review of the IFCA Constitution

The Authority reviewed and adopted its Constitution (Version 3) for the 2026-2027 year. Councillor Andrew Guy, Chair of the IFCA, noted that this was a standing item and that the constitution is reviewed annually. Steve Watt, an MMO appointee, proposed carrying on with the constitution as it stood, highlighting sections 7.1 and 12.1 as particularly important for summarising the ethos and balance of the IFCA's work. The constitution was unanimously approved.

Annual Plan 2026-2027

The Isles of Scilly IFCA's Annual Plan for 2026-2027 was considered and approved. Colin Trundle, Interim Chief Fishery Officer, presented the plan, explaining that it sets out achievable goals in line with the available budget of £219,780. He noted that the plan continues to focus on consolidating workstreams and includes objectives for three research priorities, spanning different fishery methods. The plan also outlines continued work on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and an expected increase in compliance monitoring and enforcement, aided by the forthcoming implementation of the inshore vessel monitoring system (iVMS). Steve Watt raised a point regarding research objectives, specifically the uncertainty surrounding traditional crustacean fisheries due to the impact of octopus, and asked about the possibility of an emergency bylaw similar to one used in Cornwall. Mr Trundle confirmed that this was under review. The annual plan was unanimously approved.

Crawfish Hatchery

The Authority discussed the feasibility of constructing a pilot hatchery facility on Scilly to support the crawfish fishery. Colin Trundle explained that the UK crawfish fishery had collapsed in the mid-20th century but has seen a dramatic increase in landings since 2016. He highlighted that while environmental factors like the Multidecadal North Atlantic Oscillation (MNAO) may influence abundance, the long larval phase of crawfish presents an uncertainty for predicting long-term trends. The proposed hatchery would aim to enhance wild populations by producing and releasing bio-marked juveniles. Councillor Robert Francis, Lead Member for Economy, Tourism & Transport, expressed strong support for the initiative, seeing it as a valuable opportunity for the islands to engage in scientific development, create jobs, and potentially become a centre of excellence. He proposed an amendment to the recommendation, which was seconded by Steve Watt, that the IFCA provide a secretariat for the initial setup and oversee the formation of a working group. This amendment was carried unanimously. Several members, including Councillor Harry Legg and Timothy Allsop, expressed interest in being part of the working group.

Chief Officer's Report

Colin Trundle presented his report, providing an update on various operational matters. He noted a slow start to the season due to unsettled weather and confirmed that no new permits had been applied for under the Fishing Gear Permit Byelaw 2021. Two dispensations were issued to CEFAS for annual survey works. Mr Trundle also reported progress on the iVMS issues, with a potential resolution in sight. He highlighted a steady uptake of recreational potting tags and noted the disappointment that no commercial fishers from Scilly were successful in the ballot for Atlantic Blue Fin Tuna licences. The report detailed a significant increase in octopus catches this season, with implications for crawfish targeting. Preparations for a crawfish tagging study were complete, with a reward scheme in place to encourage participation. The patrol vessel, Vigilant, had returned to service, and work was ongoing to meet the Work Boat Code 3 deadline, including addressing noise issues with a new communication system. A solar-powered trickle charger was also being trialled to mitigate battery drain from bilge pumps. Councillor Nick Jenkins raised a question about the pollock limit for hobby fishermen, and it was confirmed that no restriction was currently in place, with a potential implementation by the end of the year. The report was noted by the members.