Fish
The Solent is a mixed sea fishery, with fishing effort which varies between a number of different commercial species throughout the year. The inshore waters have an important role as a nursery area for bass, with specific areas identified for protection, and for a range of other fin-fish. The most significant shellfishery is for native oyster (Ostrea edulis), which represents the largest self-sustaining stock in Europe and is of international conservation importance. There is a non-native fishery for hard-shelled clam (Mercenaria mercenaria), which is greatly reduced from previous levels.
Important, and threatened runs of migratory salmon and sea trout make use of the Solent on their way to and from spawning grounds in the Rivers Test, Itchen, Meon, Hamble, and the New Forest streams, whilst eels migrate from the rivers to spawn at sea.
The Solent and Wight area has been highlighted as a shark and ray hotspot and provides a pupping ground for smoothhound, tope and possibly thresher shark. The area also provides a nursery ground for a number of other shark and ray species.
The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 proposes to modernise inshore fisheries management in England by replacing Sea Fisheries Committees (SFCs) with Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs). The vision of IFCAs is to lead, champion and manage a sustainable marine environment and inshore fisheries, by successfully securing the right balance between social, environmental and economic benefits to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry.
In February 2010, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) and Natural England launched the Fishing Coalition for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This new alliance represents much of the UK fishing industry and will provide a vital point of contact for Government and nature conservation organisations as they work with the industry in developing the growing network of MPAs.
