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Vessel licences

We issue and administer vessel licences that all UK fishing vessels are required to have in order to fish for profit. Fishing licences can be transferred subject to existing licensing rules.

To apply for a fishing vessel licence, please:

Before applying for your licence

All commercial UK fishing vessels need to be registered with the Registry of Shipping and Seamen, which is 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.

Contact information

Fisheries Management and Effort Control Team
Marine Management Organisation
PO Box 1275
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE99 5BN

Tel: 0191 376 2597
Fax: 0191 376 2681
Email: fishingvessellicensing@
marinemanagement.org.uk