Falklands Fisheries Department Halts Loligo Squid Season After Just Three Days
By Editor • August 27, 2026 • 1 min read
The Falkland Islands Fisheries Department has made the swift decision to close the second Loligo squid season due to alarming low biomass levels, just three days following its reopening on August 24. This closure comes after a two-week pause implemented on August 12.
The government described the closure as a precautionary measure aimed at preserving the long-term viability of the fishery. Director of Natural Resources, James Wilson, expressed deep concerns over factors affecting the squid population, including oceanographic changes and an increase in predatory hake.
Industry reports indicate that the fishing fleet, although stable in number, has become more powerful and efficient, putting additional strain on the squid population. This marks the fourth consecutive year of challenges for the second Loligo season; 2024 did not see any openings due to low biomass, while 2025 faced delayed starts and early closures.
John Barton, acting chair of the Loligo Producers Group, highlighted the economic significance of the fishery, urging for urgent research into the current challenges. Discussions are ongoing with the Department of Natural Resources to implement measures under the Loligo Management Plan, which may include monitoring predator activity to better understand the ecosystem dynamics.
Source: en.mercopress.com
