Morocco Closes Southern Fishing Zone Until End June to Protect Juvenile Sardines

INRH recently conducted a scientific assessment in which they found that juvenile sardines overwhelmingly dominate the southern stock C zone, with many fish yet to reach sexual maturity.

Casablanca – The State Secretariat for Maritime Fisheries announced yesterday the closure of the southern fishing zone known as stock C to all vessels authorized to target small pelagic species, effective immediately and lasting until the end of June.

The decision follows scientific monitoring conducted by the National Institute for Fisheries Research (INRH), which revealed a marked dominance of juvenile sardines in the area. According to the stock assessment, a significant proportion of the observed sardines are below the size at first sexual maturity.

The findings were corroborated by vessels operating in the zone since the fishing season opened on February 16, 2026. An acoustic survey carried out by the INRH identified a specific area occupied exclusively by juvenile Sardina pilchardus, with their presence mainly recorded at depths below 50 meters.

Authorities stated that fluctuations in biomass levels, influenced by hydroclimatic conditions including temperature, have affected spawning and recruitment phases, contributing to the current situation.

Citing the high risks associated with intensive exploitation of immature fish, particularly the potential reduction in the stock’s renewal capacity, the Secretariat decided to implement urgent and strict management measures.

The move was taken after consultations with industry professionals, who were informed of the stock’s status and the need for protective action.

The temporary closure aims to reduce fishing pressure, allow immature individuals to grow and survive, and support the rebuilding of sardine biomass in the southern zone, with a view to ensuring the sustainability of the fishery in the medium and long term.