DFFE Sardine Fishing Measure 2026: Precautionary Catch Limits Remain

• The DFFE has implemented a temporary precautionary fisheries measure for sardine catches until October 2, 2026.
• This measure restricts right holders to 25% of their outstanding 2026 directed sardine total allowable catch, applicable west and east of Cape Agulhas.
• Pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) has been identified as the primary biological factor associated with the 2026 sardine mortality event, confirmed in Western Cape and Algoa Bay.
• No widespread renewed sardine mortality has been observed, and the DFFE does not believe a full fishery closure is currently warranted.
• The Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group will meet on September 29, 2026, to review evidence and reconsider management before the temporary measure expires.

The Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group is scheduled to convene on September 29, 2026, to meticulously review all available evidence and reassess the management of the fishery before the current temporary measure concludes.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has confirmed that no renewed widespread sardine mortality has been observed, despite ongoing monitoring of a 2026 sardine mortality event. The only recent report of concern was an isolated stranding of fresh sardines near Mbotyi on the northern Wild Coast on September 11, 2026. This comes as the DFFE sardine fishing measure 2026, a temporary precautionary fisheries restriction, remains in effect.

Implemented on September 11, 2026, this measure will continue until October 2, 2026. Under its provisions, each fishing right holder is permitted to land no more than 25% of their outstanding 2026 directed sardine total allowable catch (TAC). This restriction applies to fishing activities both west and east of Cape Agulhas, while scientific investigations and monitoring efforts proceed. The DFFE has indicated that current evidence does not suggest the mortality event has reduced the sardine population to an extent that would necessitate a complete closure of the fishery.

Pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) has been identified as the strongest biological factor associated with the ongoing sardine mortality event. The presence of PHV has been confirmed in affected sardine samples collected from both the Western Cape and Algoa Bay. Comprehensive monitoring, sampling, and laboratory investigations are actively continuing to better understand the scope and impact of the virus.

While earlier samples from KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) tested negative for PHV, the DFFE notes that only a limited number of samples were analyzed. Additional samples from KZN are anticipated, which will be crucial in determining if this initial negative result is consistent across a broader population. Should these subsequent tests also yield negative results, it would lend support, though not definitive proof, to the theory that the mortality event did not extend into KZN, aligning with observations that the mortality front concluded before reaching the province. Importantly, no adverse effects on sardine-dependent seabirds or marine mammals have been confirmed in connection with the event. The DFFE also reassures the public that PHV is a fish virus not known to infect humans, and commercially produced sardine products distributed through regulated channels remain safe for consumption. However, members of the public are advised against collecting or consuming dead or dying sardines found on beaches or floating near the shore, feeding them to pets, or using them as bait.

The current DFFE precautionary fisheries measure is explicitly time-limited and designed to be precautionary, with the potential for earlier review if environmental conditions deteriorate. Industry reports confirm that strong winds have recently hampered fishing operations west of Cape Agulhas, and weather conditions have also restricted fishing opportunities in Algoa Bay. Since the beginning of September, only one sardine catch, totaling 26 tonnes, has been recorded.

Looking ahead, the Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group is scheduled to convene on September 29, 2026, to meticulously review all available evidence and reassess the management of the fishery before the current temporary measure concludes. This meeting is a critical juncture for South Africa sardine total allowable catch decisions. Furthermore, a planned hydroacoustic survey in October and November will provide the first fisheries-independent estimate of sardine biomass and distribution following the mortality event, offering vital data for future management strategies and potential adjustments to Cape Agulhas fishing restrictions.

Lawyers advising South African fishing right holders should be aware of the DFFE's temporary precautionary measure limiting sardine catch to 25% of outstanding TAC until October 2, 2026. They must monitor the upcoming September 29 review by the Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group for potential changes to these fishing quotas.

Source: Original reporting via SAnews.gov.za