Fishing for whelks is to be controlled across the whole of Manx waters to help ensure the sustainability of the species.

While there are restrictions on catching whelks from the shore to three miles out to sea, little protection exists for the species from three to 12 miles out.

A requirement for a species-specific licence is being introduced by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture from August 17.

The measure comes after discussions with the industry and a public consultation.

Licences will be issued to those who can demonstrate they fished for whelks between three and 12 miles out in 2016 or are permitted to fish for whelks further inshore.

There will also be limits on the number of pots that fishermen can use to catch whelks.

DEFA Minister Geoffrey Boot MHK said: ’Whelks are one of five major species - along with king and queen scallops, lobsters and crabs - caught in Manx waters that contribute to an increasingly high-value and quality industry.

’They were the only species of the five not to require specific licences from three to 12 miles, leaving them open to exploitation.

’As outlined in our Future Fisheries strategy, we must manage our fishery in the long-term interests of the industry.’

He added: ’We hope this measure will contribute to a sustainable and viable whelk fishery that is so important to our economy.’

In November 2015, Future Fisheries - a five-year strategy for the sustainable development of the Isle of Man’s sea fisheries and marine environment - was passed by Tynwald in Novemer 2015.

Sea fisheries is worth £13 million to the Isle of Man economy.

The strategy identifies ways of securing sustainable, thriving and well-managed fisheries providing high quality products while continuing to protect and respect the marine environment.