Byelaw 3 – Cockle Fishery Updates
This page is dedicated solely to updating stakeholders on our cockle fisheries.
17th February 2026
A reminder to all permit holders that Morecambe Bay Cockle fisheries will close on 28th February 2026.
Last full day for fishing will be Friday 27th February 2026.
10th February 2026
Member of the TSB committee voted in favour of adopting the Minimum Use Policy for Byelaw 3 (Cockle and Mussel) permit holders. This vote came after consultation with stakeholders, the results of which were presented to members in yesterday’s meeting. You can view the relevant report papers here.
TSB Meeting 10th February 2026
6th January 2026
FLOOKBURGH CLOSED
Flookburgh Cockle Fishery is closed from 06/01/2026 UNTIL 10/01/2026 inclusive.
Fishery is expected to reopen 12/01/2026
Please note: NWIFCA are closely monitoring Pilling and Newbiggin Cockle fisheries under the same protocol, and these fisheries may also have to close, although currently the threshold for closure has not been reached.
5th January 2026
Cold Weather Monitoring
NWIFCA are closely monitoring the cockle beds in accordance to our Cold Weather Policy. All permit holders will be kept updated to any changes.
You can view the Cold Weather Protocol here.
TSB Recommendations 5th August 2025
Following today’s meeting the following recommendation were proposed by the Technical, Science and Byelaw Sub-Committee (TSB).
- Perch and Black Scar mussel beds are opened (area to be confirmed) to seed mussel fishing (hand gathered and dredge) subject to HRA
- Flookburgh cockle bed is opened five days a week, one tide a day, with an 800 tonne TAC and subject to HRA
- Newbiggin cockle bed is opened five days a week, one tide a day, with an 300 tonne TAC and subject to HRA
- All other district cockle beds will remain closed for the duration of the season.
NWIFCA will continue to communicate with all Byelaw 3 Permit holders and relevant stakeholders when any updates are made
To view updates for individual fisheries, please click the links below.