This page is dedicated solely to informing stakeholders about current and future consultations NWIFCA is running. The links to individual live consultations can be found under each heading.

Current Consultations

Byelaw 3 – Minimum Use Policy

The draft policy sets out a proposal to set minimum fishing thresholds for all Byelaw 3 permit holders, which would be determined by a small group of Authority members on an annual basis.

To view the draft policy, click here.

To take part in the consultation, click here.

This consultation is open until 4th January 2026.

Call for Evidence – Smooth-hounds on the Wirral

In recent years, there have been increasing reports of dead marine life – particularly smooth-hounds – washing up along the Wirral coast. These events have raised public concern about potential links to local fishing activity.

NWIFCA is seeking input from local anglers to better understand their experiences and observations related to smooth-hounds.

To get involved you please follow the link below

Smooth-hound sightings and seasonality survey – Wirral area

This call for evidence will remain open until 4th January 2026.

Byelaw 3 – Cockle Fisheries Management Plan

North west inshore fisheries and conservation authority has developed a management plan for its district cockle fisheries.We particularly welcome views from permitted fishers, who are among those most directly affected.

To learn more, click here

To view the view the Cockle Management Plan, Click here

To take part, click here

This consultation is open until March 2026

Forthcoming Consultations

Byelaw 10 – Mobile Nets

An initial consultation seeking views on what stakeholders think about a potential new byelaw to regulate the use of commercial and recreational mobile nets within the district. Due to launch late 2025.

Byelaw 3 – Cockle Early Open Season Trial

Early in the new year, we will seek feedback on this year’s trial open season for cockles, during which some beds opened two months earlier than usual (July instead of September) and all will close two months earlier (February instead of April). Even if you did not fish this year due to external factors, we would still value your views on whether the Authority should retain this July–February season or return to the traditional September–April season.