Is the future of Ireland’s boarfish industry bright?

These small red and silver fish live at depth of 40-600 metres so we don't often see them but in recent years, the boarfish fishery has contributed approximately €5 million annually to the Irish economy

The boarfish is found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean. Picture: Ciaran O'Donnell

In a significant development for sustainable fisheries management, the Marine Institute has successfully developed a new method for the assessment of boarfish. 

This achievement, part of an International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) peer-reviewed stock assessment benchmarking process, is expected to have long-lasting positive effects for the Irish fishing industry and marine conservation efforts.

A new era for boarfish management

The Marine Institute’s Fisheries ecosystems advisory services (FEAS) team undertook a comprehensive review of available data and methodologies to improve the scientific foundation for boarfish stock assessment. 

Their work has culminated in an advanced method that not only enhances the accuracy of stock assessments but also allows for more dynamic and responsive fisheries management.

Boarfish is named for its cylindrical snout, ending in a small mouth with a protrusible upper lip, resembling a pig. Picture: Jonathan White

Boarfish, a small red and silver fish that thrives in depths of 40 to 600 metres, has historically been caught for processing into fishmeal. However, growing interest in its potential as a source of bioactive compounds and human food has positioned it as an increasingly valuable resource. With Ireland holding 70% of the total allowable catch (TAC),  a well-managed and sustainable fishery could have significant benefits.

From unregulated catches to scientific stewardship

The targeted boarfish fishery in the Northeast Atlantic was established in the mid-2000s, primarily by the Irish pelagic industry.

Initially, the lack of regulation led to rapid increases in catches until the introduction of TAC-based management in 2011. Recognising the importance of sound scientific guidance, Ireland’s Marine Institute collaborated closely with the pelagic sector to develop the information base and included the establishment of an annual acoustic survey, extensive scientific sampling of catches, and improving the biological knowledge of boarfish.

Initially, the assessment method was limited due to a lack of long-term data. As a result, stock assessments relied heavily on the acoustic survey and broad assumptions about stock behaviour. While this necessarily conservative approach ensured sustainability, it restricted opportunities for increasing catch limits despite evidence of stock growth, particularly in recent years.

Breakthrough in stock assessment

Recent indications of a substantial rise in boarfish stock levels necessitated a more refined and responsive assessment model. The FEAS team identified new data sources, leading to the development of a method that has now been formally accepted by ICES as the basis for advisory recommendations from 2025 onwards. 

The new assessment method is a major improvement over its predecessor, as it leverages the full spectrum of available data. It is more robust, allows for more precise monitoring of stock status, and ensures that the catch advice aligns with the principles of 'maximum sustainable yield' (MSY). 

This aligns with the objectives of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy, which aims to maintain fish stocks within safe biological limits.

A 40% increase in boarfish quota

One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of the Marine Institute’s work is the 40% increase in the advised boarfish catch for 2025. This significant boost comes whilst ensuring that the stock remains in a healthy state. 

For the Irish pelagic sector — instrumental in both establishing the fishery and supporting scientific data collection — this represents a vital economic opportunity. In recent years, the boarfish fishery has contributed approximately €5 million annually to the Irish economy. 

With the increased quota for 2025, revenue for the sector is expected to rise considerably. This boost comes at a crucial time, offsetting reductions in quotas for other species and helping to stabilise Ireland’s fishing industry.

A model for collaborative success

The Marine Institute’s success with the boarfish stock assessment is a testament to the power of collaboration between scientists, industry stakeholders, and international bodies. 

By continuously refining data collection techniques and stock assessments, Ireland has positioned itself at the forefront of sustainable fisheries management. Ongoing monitoring and cooperation between the Marine Institute and industry partners will ensure that Ireland’s boarfish fishery remains a model of sustainability and economic viability.

With the boarfish stock size near a historic maximum, continued improvements in scientific advice will be crucial to maintaining this positive outcome. 

The Marine Institute’s achievement underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in fisheries management. Their work not only secures the future of the boarfish fishery but also sets a precedent for other fisheries seeking to balance economic interests with ecological responsibility. 

Dr Ciaran Kelly, director of Fisheries Ecosystems Advisory Services at the Marine Institute. Picture: Andrew Downes

• Dr Ciaran Kelly is director of Fisheries Ecoystems Advisory Services (FEAS) with the Marine Institute, the State agency responsible for marine research, technology development and innovation in Ireland. He trained as a marine biologist and subsequently as a fisheries scientist.