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Mandatory Catch Registration in Norway
To safeguard biodiversity and ensure sustainable fishing for future generations, certain species must be reported to the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries.
Regulation of Tourist Fishing in Norway – Guidelines and Obligations
Tourist fishing in Norway is subject to strict national regulations designed to protect marine ecosystems and ensure the sustainable use of fishery resources for future generations. Businesses that offer sport or recreational fishing to tourists and meet certain criteria (such as generating at least NOK 50,000 in annual revenue from tourist fishing and/or offering rental boats) are required to register with the Directorate of Fisheries.
These registered businesses are also obligated to report catch data digitally via platforms approved by the Directorate of Fisheries. As of January 1, 2022, the previous reporting forms are no longer permitted – all reporting must now be done digitally and continuously. This applies to all fishing trips, whether or not any fish are caught, and regardless of the tourist’s nationality or country of residence.
The reporting requirement specifically applies to five key species: cod, halibut, saithe, redfish, and wolffish. All catches must be documented by species, date, vessel, and number of fish. In addition, fish that are caught and released – not brought to shore – must also be recorded. This practice is essential for forming a complete picture of the pressure on fish stocks.
Duties for Recreational Fishers and Tourists – Catch Limits and Conduct Rules
Foreign recreational fishers are only allowed to use handheld gear such as rods and lines. The use of passive gear such as nets, traps, pots, or longlines is prohibited. It is also not permitted to sell the catch.
Tourists fishing with a registered tourist fishing business are allowed to export up to 18 kg of fish or fish products twice per calendar year. Fish purchased from a registered commercial seller is not included in this quota, provided that the purchase can be documented.
Fish that are below the minimum size limit must be released immediately. Halibut over two meters must always be released. It is also mandatory to maintain a distance of at least 100 meters from aquaculture facilities while fishing. All boat traffic must keep at least 20 meters away from fish farm structures and moorings.
It is not permitted to take part in the direct harvesting of king crab unless done through an approved arrangement in Finnmark. Under certain conditions, foreign nationals with a valid hunting license may also participate in coastal seal hunting, provided they are accompanied by a Norwegian citizen.
These rules have been established to preserve Norway’s unique coastal and fjord environments, and to ensure fair access to marine resources. For the most up-to-date and legally binding information, please consult the Directorate of Fisheries’ official website or contact the authorities directly.
Reportable Species – These Fish Must Always Be Registered
Minimum Size Limits in Recreational Fishing
Everyone fishing in the sea in Norway must follow the rules on minimum size limits. The goal is to allow more small fish to grow large enough to reproduce. There are exceptions for species like mackerel and saithe, as long as the catch is not for sale. Tusk, wolffish, and pollack also do not have minimum sizes. The most common species with minimum limits are cod, haddock, crab, and lobster.
How Can We Protect the Fish?
To avoid catching undersized fish, you can use larger hooks, nets with bigger mesh sizes, or try fishing in different areas. If you do catch small fish, wet your hands with seawater, remove the hook gently, and release them back. If the fish is dead or not viable, you may keep and eat it – but in that case, you should move location or change your method to avoid more small catches.
Deliberately catching undersized fish may result in penalties, but the purpose is to protect marine resources – not to punish people. Recreational fishing in the fjords does have a real impact on fish stocks. Even if one fisher only takes a little, the total catch adds up. We are privileged to harvest from the sea, and it is our shared responsibility to ensure that small fish can grow, spawn, and sustain future generations.
Minimum Sizes for Selected Species
- Greenland halibut – 45 cm
- Monkfish (when caught with nets) – 60 cm
- Lobster – 25 cm
- Haddock north of 62°N – 40 cm / south of 62°N – 32 cm
- Halibut – 84 cm
- Crab: Eastern Norway and Rogaland – 11 cm / rest of the country – 13 cm
- European hake – 30 cm
- European plaice – 29 cm
- Sea trout: Nordland/Troms/Finnmark – 30 cm / rest of the country – 35 cm
- King scallop – 10 cm
- Norway lobster – 13 cm
- Whiting – 32 cm
- Cod north of 62°N: Beyond 4 nm – 44 cm / Within 4 nm – 55 cm
- Cod south of 62°N – 40 cm
- Redfish beyond 12 nm – 30 cm / within 12 nm – 32 cm
Note: “Beyond 12 nm” refers to waters more than 12 nautical miles (approx. 22 km) offshore – outside Norwegian territorial waters, but within the economic zone.
The Directorate of Fisheries is happy to answer questions
in English, German, Russian, or Norwegian.
in English, German, Russian, or Norwegian.
