North Sea and Channel sprat fisheries management plan (FMP) for English and Scottish waters
The North Sea and Channel sprat FMP describes how we will achieve the long-term sustainable management of sprat fisheries in English and Scottish waters.
The North Sea and Channel sprat fisheries management plan (FMP) covers stocks in English and Scottish waters.
Defra and the Scottish Government prepared the sprat FMP in partnership with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), in collaboration with scientists, regulators, statutory nature conservation bodies and other fishery stakeholders.
The North Sea and Channel sprat FMP has been prepared and published to meet the requirements set out in the Fisheries Act 2020.
You can also read the summary of what happens next.
Read more about fisheries management plans.
Areas covered
English and Scottish waters.
Status
A public consultation to seek views on the draft plan closed on 19 January 2025. View the consultation and the government response at North Sea and Channel sprat: proposed fisheries management plan consultation.
The final FMP was published in December 2025.
Contact us
If you would like more information, email FMPs@defra.gov.uk.