Qatar bans fixed gillnets for kingfish fishing from August 15 to October 31

Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality has announced a seasonal ban on using fixed gillnets to catch kingfish, with the restriction running from 15 August to 31 October 2026.

The measure is intended to reduce fishing pressure and support the long-term sustainability of kingfish stocks in Qatari waters.

The announcement does not introduce a complete ban on catching kingfish. Fishing with fixed gillnets will be prohibited during the specified period, while line fishing will continue to be permitted.

What fishing method is prohibited?

The restriction applies specifically to fixed gillnets, which are nets positioned in the water to catch fish as they swim through them.

Fishermen will still be allowed to catch kingfish using fishing lines during the ban period.

The Ministry encouraged fishermen and members of the maritime community to comply with the seasonal regulation under the message: “Our fish stocks, everyone’s responsibility.”

Why has Qatar introduced the kingfish net ban?

The Ministry said the measure has two main objectives:

• Reducing fishing pressure on kingfish populations
• Ensuring the sustainability of kingfish stocks

When does the restriction apply?

The 2026 seasonal restriction will apply from:

Start date: 15 August 2026

End date: 31 October 2026

During this period, fishermen should use line-fishing methods only when catching kingfish and avoid the use of fixed gillnets.

Previous seasonal kingfish regulations have been monitored through inspections of fishing vessels and ports, with violations subject to penalties under Qatar’s marine-resource protection laws. 

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