Fishing vessel licences
In order to fish for profit (i.e. for gains), all UK fishing vessels require a licence, which is issued and administered by the Marine and Fisheries Agency, an executive agency of Defra. Fishing licences can be transferred subject to existing licensing rules.
To apply for a fishing vessel licence, please:
- read the vessel licensing guidance
- contact your local Marine and Fisheries Agency port office who will be able to advise you.
Before applying for your licence
All commercial UK fishing vessels need to be registered with the Registry of Shipping and Seamen, part of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency based in Cardiff. To find out more about registering your fishing vessel, please visit the Registry of Shipping and Seamen website via the link on the right of this page.