Thames Eel Update

Recruitment of the eel has reduced across Europe, according to the Environment Agency. However, evidence from catch returns suggests that the Thames has a stable population in the estuary that is exploited by the local fishermen.

The European Eel Regulation demands that member states improve eel populations by adjustments to the amount of fishing, restocking, habitat availability and migration barriers.

In England and Wales, DEFRA has developed Eel Management Plans for river basin districts including the Thames. These identify the current status of the population and the constraints on it. As the Thames is fished commercially, there is historic data on catches in the estuary.  In addition, fisheries surveys have given a reasonable base line upstream in freshwater, but additional monitoring has been required. The Rivers Wandle and Darent have been especially monitored for eels using electro-fishing surveys. ZSL is also monitoring some of the tributaries for small eels (bootlaces) coming up the river in spring. ZSL recorded some low levels in 2009, but 2010 is looking better.

A new system of managing the eel net fishery will mean that fishing seasons and locations can be adjusted to local conditions, further protecting eel stocks. Work has also taken place to improve passage, with eel passes being installed on many tributaries of the Thames, including the Hogsmill, Cray, Darent, Medway, Swale, Roding and Lee. More information on the website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk

Eel Tidal Structures Report

In England and Wales there are many thousands of hectares of potentially productive freshwater eel habitat in waterways that lie below high tide level of adjacent estuaries and coastal waters. These are drained by tidal flaps, which allow seaward gravity flow at low tide, or by pumping. Both these scenarios represent potential problems for eel
migration either into or out of fresh water, and are likely to be limiting the contribution of these areas to production of the species. The aim of this project is to assess the scope of problems for passage of elvers and adult eels, and to identify and promote potential solutions.

Eel Tidal Structures Report (8.12 MB)

Some useful websites:

Sustainable Eel Group    www.sustainableeelgroup.com

Eel Management Plans    www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/fisheries/freshwater/fishman.htm