Key trends for the fishing industry in 2025

As we enter a new year, we take a moment to reflect on what the fishing industry will need to focus on in 2025 to ensure its continued success, sustainability, and resilience. The pelagic fishing sector is a cornerstone of the global seafood economy, providing critical protein to millions and supporting livelihoods across coastal communities. Its importance can’t be overstated, but as the industry looks to the future, challenges and opportunities require fresh thinking, innovative solutions, and a commitment to collaboration.

The path forward will define the industry’s ability to thrive in turbulent waters. This includes safeguarding sustainable fish stocks and adopting cutting-edge technology like Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) and addressing wider issues such as space at sea, emission management, workforce development, and scientific partnerships. Here are some of the main areas demanding the sector’s focus as we move through 2025.

Safeguarding fish stocks for the future

Ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks is a key priority for the pelagic fishing industry, as it is each year. The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has issued advice for Total Allowable Catches (TACs) in 2025, calling for reductions in key species such as mackerel, herring, and blue whiting.

While these cuts present challenges, they are critical to safeguarding fish populations for the future. Sustainable TAC management allows fish stocks to recover and remain at levels that support maximum sustainable yield (MSY). This approach ensures food security, protects marine ecosystems, and sustains the livelihoods of thousands who depend on the fishing industry.

Collaboration across all fisheries is vital. By responsibly managing shared resources, we can prevent overfishing, protect biodiversity, and secure a sustainable future for marine environments and the industry.

Driving Sustainability with REM Technology

Adopting Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) camera technology is poised to be one of the most significant developments for the pelagic fishing industry in 2025. With emerging regulations, technological advances, and increasing government legislation and regulation, the momentum around REM is transforming how businesses operate in this vital sector.

Recently, our vessel, Frank Bonefaas, became the first “early adopter” to trial Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) in English waters as part of a collaborative initiative with the UK government, showcasing its practical advantages and signalling an industry-wide shift toward greater accountability and sustainability.

This year, what’s driving REM into the spotlight is Scotland’s new requirement that any vessel operating in its waters must be equipped with REM systems by September 2025, with full-scale compliance required by April 2026.

For the pelagic industry, the significance of REM cannot be overstated. The technology ensures compliance with catch quotas and environmental regulations and provides highly accurate, verifiable data that will enrich scientific evidence to better inform management decisions.  It also helps to  builds trust with regulators, markets, and consumers alike. In an era where transparency and sustainability are increasingly demanded, REM will be essential for demonstrating proper stewardship of marine resources.

Space at sea

Space at sea is set to be a major issue for the pelagic fishing industry this year, as the expansion of marine protected areas and offshore infrastructure developments such as wind farms continue to reduce access to traditional fishing grounds. This growing competition for sea space restricts where vessels can operate, creating significant challenges for catching essential food sources such as mackerel and herring.

While designated zones serve important conservation and renewable energy goals, fish are not stationary and migrate across vast areas, making static boundaries impractical for sustainable fisheries. Ensuring that the fishing industry is at the top table from the outset of discussion to provide context to inform subsequent decision making is the minimum requirement.  The Marine Policy statement requires inter alia, ‘productive oceans and seas’, securing adequate space for primary food production from the sea (fishing) in balance with environmental and offshore development needs will be a key focus for the sector this year.

Workforce for the Future

Attracting fresh talent to the pelagic fishing sector will be another key area; it is vital for building a workforce fit for the future. Highlighting the lucrative opportunities available for young people and those seeking a career change is essential, as the industry offers a modern and forward-thinking environment with a range of diverse roles, many of which are STEM-focused.

Unlike a typical desk job, careers in the pelagic industry provide hands-on experience, clear pathways for progression, and the opportunity to work in a dynamic sector that embraces innovation, technology, and sustainability. Inspiring the next generation will be key to the industry’s continued success.

Supporting Scientific Research

Supporting scientific research will remain a key focus for the pelagic fishing industry this year, as collaboration with scientists, researchers, and academics is crucial to provide the best possible evidence to support fisheries management decision making.  In turn, this will help to advance sustainability and improve fishing practices. The pelagic industry is committed to ensuring the most effective and responsible methods are employed, helping to protect fish stocks and the marine environment.

Our pelagic vessels often host fishery researchers, and additional scientific data is collected by quality managers on every trip through self-sampling, such as measuring fish size. This data is shared with national fisheries scientists at Cefas and in Europe via the Pelagic Freezer Trawler Association (PFA), which employs scientists to coordinate studies, contribute to ICES research, and participate in working groups. Strengthening these partnerships allows the industry to refine its practices, make science-based decisions, and play an active role in safeguarding the long-term health of the oceans.

Looking ahead

As the pelagic fishing industry navigates the challenges and opportunities of 2025, its focus on sustainability, innovation, collaboration, and adaptability will be critical. By balancing progress with responsibility and prioritising the health of marine ecosystems, the industry can continue providing vital food sources while securing a resilient and sustainable future for future generations.