Morecambe Bay 2025 seed mussel fishery update
In preparation for a potential seed fishery at Fleetwood, NWIFCA is inviting expressions of interest from both the hand-gathered seed, and dredge sectors.
The fishery is subject to HRA approval and agreement from the Technical Science and Byelaws Subcommittee, however, due to time sensitivities of this resource, applications are open to industry to give time for the necessary preparations.
Proposed area: Perch and Black Scar mussel bed – Fleetwood
The image indicates the area proposed open for seed fishing at Fleetwood.
Hand-gathered seed application
If you are interested in fishing via hand-gathering, please contact NWIFCA via:
OR
To register your interest in the fishery.
Seed dredge application
To dredge for seed mussel you must hold a permit issued under The Restrictions on the use of a Dredge Byelaw 2017. To apply please complete both the Dredge Permit Application Form and Seed Mussel Supplementary Form available below:
Download Dredge Permit Application Form 2025 (pdf)
Download Seed Mussel Supplementary Form 2025 (pdf)
Important information:
The opening of these fisheries is dependent on the outcome of the HRA assessment, TSB approval, and final inspections.
NWIFCA will contact dredge applicants for payment once a decision on opening the fishery has been reached. If you do not wish to proceed with a permit at this point no payment will be taken.