MCS evolutions: Heading for ERS 2026 : The Digital Revolution in Fishing

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BEFORE 2026 : A Partial and Outdated System

  • Partial Fleet : Primarily vessels >12m ; those <10m were largely exempted.
  • Paper-Based Tools : Use of paper logbooks and exemptions.
  • Deferred Reporting : Data entry occurred at the end of the day or before landing.
  • Simple Control : Transparency relied on simple self-reporting.

FROM 2026 : Real-Time "All-Digital" System

  • 100% of the Fleet : Mandatory for all EU vessels without exception.
  • Simplified Tools : End of paper ; use of apps, tablets, and PCs.
  • Immediate Entry : "Real-time" declaration required after every fishing operation.
  • Increased Surveillance : Enhanced monitoring through CCTV, VMS, and Big Data correlation.

New Responsibilities

Total Traceability "From Net to Plate"

  • UN/FLUX Interoperability : Direct link to the ERS Voyage Number.
  • Digitalization of sales notes and take-over declarations to track fish lots to the final consumer.

Lost Gear & Bycatch

  • Lost Fishing Gear : Mandatory reporting via ERS to combat "ghost fishing".
  • Protected Species Bycatch : Precise recording of accidental catches of marine mammals or birds.

Impact on the Daily Life of Fishermen

The 2026 ERS regulations transform the daily work routine, turning the fisherman into a real-time data manager.

Feature Before 2026 After 2026
Fleet Concerned Primarily > 12m  100% of the fleet (including < 10m) 
Reporting Tool Paper or fixed terminals  Multi-device (App, Tablet, PC/Smartphone) 
Reporting Time End of day / Before landing After each haul / operation 
Transparency Simple self-reporting  VMS correlation / Video (CCTV) / Big Data