Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir has confirmed measures for the 2026 Lough Neagh eel fishery, including the closure of the yellow eel fishery for three years. The announcement was made on Thursday.

Other restrictions include a maximum landing size of 90 centimetres and a total allowable catch of 25 tonnes for the silver eel fishery. The decisions follow scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute. The European eel is classified as critically endangered.

Gary McErlain, a fisherman and chair of the Lough Neagh Partnership, said the measures are devastating for the industry and will hit fishermen financially. He highlighted the deep historical and cultural significance of eel fishing on the lough, which has supported generations of families.

McErlain noted that Lough Neagh fishermen have been a model of good practice in European eel management. He argued that pollution, not over-fishing, is the greatest threat to eel stocks and said financial help for those affected has not yet been announced.

Minister Muir acknowledged the importance of eel fishing to local communities. He said the measures are necessary to support the recovery of eel stocks and ensure the fishery's future. A temporary cessation scheme is being developed to support permit holders hit by the yellow eel closure.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has been engaging with the Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Co‑Operative Society, which owns the eel fishing rights. Officials will continue to work with stakeholders as the measures are implemented.