2026 Baltic Sea fishing quotas agreed by Estonia and Russia

Estonia and Russia strike 2026 fishing quota deal amid political tensions

Estonia and Russia have reached an agreement on fishing quotas for 2026. The deal follows a broader EU decision on Baltic Sea fisheries, announced after a meeting of EU Fisheries Ministers on 28 October 2025. Talks between the two nations took place remotely, as Estonia declined to host in person due to ongoing tensions linked to Ukraine.

The Intergovernmental Commission on Fisheries held its discussions via video link, organised by Estonian officials. Estonia had earlier informed Russia that it would not host the meeting in its capital, citing the conflict in Ukraine as the reason for the change in format.

The EU’s quota compromise for 2026 covers several key species. Cod bycatch in the western Baltic remains limited to 266 tons, while targeted cod fisheries stay closed. Central Baltic herring quotas will rise by 15%, and sprat allocations increase by 45%. Flatfish like plaice face a minor reduction of 3%. Recreational salmon fishing rules remain unchanged, with anglers still permitted one stocked salmon per day.

The agreement between Estonia and Russia aligns with these EU-wide measures, ensuring both nations follow the newly set limits for the coming year.

The new quotas will take effect in 2026, affecting commercial and recreational fishing across the Baltic. Estonia’s decision to hold talks remotely reflects broader political considerations, while the EU’s adjustments aim to balance stock sustainability with industry needs. Both countries will now implement the agreed limits in their national fisheries policies.