Characterisation of inland fisheries in Europe

Abstract The situation facing inland fisheries and aquaculture in Europe has altered rapidly in response to an exceptional period of change throughout the continent over the past 25 to 30 years. A number of factors contribute towards these trends, including increasing demand for water, social, economic and political shifts, and increased awareness of environmental issues. The aim of this study is to explore changes in the European inland fisheries sector to assist planning and management of the sector in the future. Commercial fisheries have declined throughout Europe. After slow expansion through the 1950s–1980s, catches have declined steadily over the past 25 years, more so in the north and west than in Eastern countries. Similarly, recreational fisheries are under threat from declining participation and degradation from external interventions. By contrast, aquaculture production from inland waters in European countries has shown a progressive increase of 7% per year from 300 000 t in 1985 to 430 000 t in 2012. Despite the importance of inland fisheries, especially recreational fisheries, throughout Europe, there is a perception that natural fisheries have undergone major, often adverse, changes. These are related to ongoing restructuring in post‐socialist countries, changing relationships between commercial and recreational fishers, deficiencies and confusion in fisheries legislation, administration and access to waters. The resources are also subject to numerous anthropogenic perturbations. In an effort to maintain, improve and develop inland fisheries in Europe options for development, including river basin management planning and ecosystem approach are discussed.