South Wales Sea Fisheries Committee

These are HISTORICAL Notices
The WG Fisheries Unit website should be consulted for current information
http://wales.gov.uk/topics/environmentcountryside/foodandfisheries/fisheries/contactandlinks/fisheriescontacts/?lang=en

1. The public fishing for, or taking of cockles in that area of Pembroke River lying due south of a line drawn across the mouth from Pennar Point recommences for 31 March 2006 according to the conditions below:.

2. Cockle size shall be 17.5mm square. (Byelaw 13c).

3. No person shall fish west of a line marking Zostera (eel) grass beds marked by two buoys at positions N510 40' 54.71" W 40 58' 36.87' and N510 40' 36.28" W 40 57' 5.98" (See map below)

Even walking on the Eel grass is likely to cause damage and this are should be avoided whenever possible.

NB: The management conditions are designed to allow a sustainable fishery for this year and future years, in a manner which is sensitive to the marine environment and local communities.
Various parties would prefer to see no cockle fishing. Gatherers and merchants are invited to pay full regard to the various operating rules and guidelines in order the cockle fishing may

Code of Conduct for Intertidal Shellfisheries
Fishing for cockles and mussels on the shore is a long-established activity. In recent years the level of activity has increased, and there has been increasing public concern about it.
By observing this simple code of conduct you can help to reduce complaints and protect your own long-term interests.

1. Treat the foreshore with respect
Much of the foreshore is privately owned. Many landowners tolerate access to and from shellfisheries. This does not include the storage of fishing equipment or catches on private land. To protect your own interests:

Don't damage gates, fences or signposts;
Don't block access routes; and
Get the landowner's agreement before storing any fishing equipment, vehicles or catches on private land.

2. Use vehicles on the shore carefully
Many landowners and coastal residents are concerned about the use of tractors, ATVs / Quad Bikes, and other vehicles on the shore. Try to minimise complaints by:

Ensuring all vehicles are in good repair and have exhaust silencers;
Keep noise to a minimum - especially early in the morning and at weekends;
Avoid churning up mud at the top of the shore;
Don't abandon vehicles on the shore.

3. Leave the shore as you find it
Frequent complaints are made about litter being left by fishermen. This includes food wrappers, cups, sacks used to transport shellfish, and shellfish dropped or discarded on the shore.

Clear up any litter left at the end of the day;
Don't leave unwanted shellfish or sacks lying around; and
If storing gear or shellfish on the shore, make sure it doesn't impede access.

4. Have regard for wildlife
Much of the seashore is protected by wildlife designations. It is a criminal offence to harm protected wildlife. To avoid possible prosecution:

Don't disturb bird nests or eggs;
Avoid nature reserves;
Don't take vehicles across areas of saltmarsh or seagrass; and
Contact the SFC office for advice if in any doubt.

5. Fish sustainably
SFC byelaws protect the long-term future of shellfish stocks, and must be complied with at all times. Complying with byelaws protects your own future livelihood. The minimum sizes for cockles and mussels are shown on the Website or are available from the SWSFC Office.
You can help further by:

Scattering riddled shellfish evenly back on the bed they were removed from - don't leave them in a heap;
Avoid harming or gathering juvenile shellfish - they are the future of the fishery; and
Ensure that vehicles used on the shore don't harm the shellfish beds.

6. Observe other guidance & advice
Other authorities may provide guidance relating to your activities. You should ensure that you are aware of:

Guidance issued by local authorities, the Police and landowners concerning access and other issues;
Guidance from Statutory Nature Conservation bodies.
Guidance issued by the Health & Safety Executive and the Coastguard .

For further information, contact the SWSFC at our Swansea offices or visit www.swsfc.org.uk