The European Bottom Fisheries Alliance (EBFA) brings you Voices of the Sea — a campaign to raise awareness about the essential role of bottom-contact fisheries in Europe’s food system, coastal economies, and cultural heritage. Dive into the voices, and realities behind one of the most scrutinized yet vital sectors in the EU.
THE CHALLENGES WE FACE
This campaign is not about asking for support — it’s about asking to be heard due to the challenging circumstances we are encountering:
- Increasing fishing area closures not based on environmental argumentation and with little socio-economic consideration
- Public misconceptions shaped by incomplete narratives
- Competition from fleets outside the EU with lower standards
- Climate change reshaping marine ecosystems
WHY THIS CAMPAIGN MATTERS
Bottom fishing is often misunderstood — portrayed as harmful or outdated. But for thousands of fishers across Europe, it is a continuous link with the sea, a source of dignity and sustenance.
Voices of the Sea was created to:
- Humanise the debate with real testimonies
- Show the scientific and technological progress of the sector
- Highlight the cultural and economic impact on coastal communities
- Counter simplified narratives with facts, nuance, and empathy
This is not a campaign for sympathy. It’s a call for awareness, understanding, and respect.
THE REALITY OF BOTTOM FISHERIES
QUICK FACTS
Most EU bottom fishers operate in resilient seabed areas, avoiding sensitive habitats and applying spatial restrictions
Many are certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), an independent programme ensuring sustainability, biodiversity protection, and science-based management
They are not working against nature — they are working with it, every day.
Bottom fishing is one of the most heavily regulated sectors in the EU, governed by strict gear rules, quotas, and environmental compliance frameworks
Many of the fishers EBFA represents are part of small, family-owned fleets operating under EU control and inspection regimes
European bottom fishing is a centuries-old tradition — and a modern, regulated practice. Thousands of family-owned vessels fish under the strictest controls worldwide, providing healthy seafood and protecting their communities’ way of life.
”Behind every vessel is a family, a tradition, and a regulated system that works.
EU bottom fisheries operate in resilient marine areas, guided by science-based management plans that ensure long-term balance:
- Stocks are in good status or recovering in key regions
- Fishing methods adapted to reduce bycatch
- Certified by programmes such as the MSC
- Constant collaboration with scientists and regulators
- Sustainability isn’t a slogan — it’s the foundation.
GUARDIANS OF THE SEA
SMART FISHING
Simple tools and proven practices help fishers catch what they want, use less fuel, and reduce marine life interactions. Tradition and innovation can sail together.
WHY IT MATTERS
For fishing to thrive, every element must embody sustainability
USEFUL LINKS
To shed light on the challenges linked to bottom fishing and highlight the efforts undertaken to reduce impact on marine ecosystems. The European Bottom Fisheries Alliance provides a range of resources such as reports, articles, projects and data base.
WHO IS BEHIND THIS CAMPAIGN?
EU bottom fishing unites over 20.000 fishers and 7.000 vessels, the European Bottom Fishing Alliance (EBFA) is representing them gathering members from 14 countries. We advocate for a balanced, science-based future for bottom-contact fishing — where sustainability includes people as well as nature.
CONTACT US
Have questions about our work or want to get involved? Reach out to Voices of the Sea through the contact form below. We are here to answer your inquiries and collaborate on promoting sustainable and responsible fishing practices across Europe.
Get in touch
Have a question or need more information?
Send us an email at info@bottomfishingalliance.eu
© European Bottom Fisheries Alliance 2026