The bass and pollack new rules coming into place for late 2026 are already reshaping conversations among UK anglers and charter skippers. With confirmed updates from the Angling Trust showing a boost to the recreational bass limit and a new bag restriction for pollack, many are wondering how this will affect offshore wrecking trips and charter bookings in the season ahead.

While some see the changes as a step forward, others worry about the impact on long-distance anglers who travel each year for pollack fishing. The reality is more balanced: these regulations aim to protect stocks, and with the right planning, great charter experiences are still very achievable.

Here’s what the new rules mean and how Reelzy helps anglers adapt smoothly.

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1. Bass Retention Increases – A Positive Change for 2026

The Angling Trust has announced that recreational anglers will be able to keep three bass per person per day from late 2026, up from the previous limit of two.
Source:
https://anglingtrust.net/2025/12/10/recreational-win-on-bass-but-troubling-bycatch-increases-cast-a-shadow/

Bass stocks have shown encouraging recovery, so the new allowance is a welcome improvement. For charter clients, the extra bass makes inshore and midshore trips slightly more rewarding, especially during late summer and autumn.

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2. Pollack Fishery Avoids Closure – But a New Limit Is Coming

One of the biggest drivers behind the bass and pollack new rules is the state of the pollack fishery. According to the Angling Trust, pollack came dangerously close to a full closure for 2026 across recreational and commercial sectors.

Source: https://anglingtrust.net/2025/12/10/pollack-fishery-saved-from-closure-disaster-avoided-but-new-bag-limit-ahead/

Thanks to angling groups stepping in, a shutdown was avoided – but a new rule has been introduced:

Three pollack per angler per day

This limit will have a noticeable impact on anglers who travel to the South West for annual wrecking trips. Many book months ahead, hoping for multiple big fish to take home. The new limit won’t stop the experience, but expectations will need a slight shift.

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3. Mixed Bass + Pollack Trips Become the Best Strategy

To keep wrecking trips enjoyable and productive under the bass and pollack new rules, many skippers will begin planning combined species days.

If conditions allow, anglers can retain both:

• 3 pollack, and
• 3 bass

Not only does this provide a more balanced catch, it also makes the day more varied and engaging – a win for newcomers and experienced anglers alike.

Charters that adapt early will continue offering brilliant offshore experiences throughout 2026.

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4. How Reelzy Helps Anglers Navigate the 2026 Regulation Changes

Rule changes always create uncertainty, especially for anglers booking months ahead. Reelzy removes guesswork by connecting anglers to charters that communicate clearly and follow all updates.

✔ Transparent listings – Skippers can update their pages instantly with the new 2026 retention limits.

✔ Only verified, legal operators – No confusion, no guessing who follows regulations.

✔ Real-time availability – Important as anglers switch to mixed-species trips.

✔ A platform that supports both anglers and skippers – By helping charters adjust and promote updated trip formats, Reelzy strengthens the whole ecosystem.

Browse 👉 available charters

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5. Offshore Wrecking Will Still Be Fantastic in 2026

Pollack remains one of the UK’s most exciting sportfish – powerful strikes, fast runs, and deep-water battles that test every part of your setup. Even with a reduced bag limit, the experience remains the same.

And with bass limits increasing, offshore days may become more diverse and enjoyable. The bass and pollack new rules simply reshape the day, not the thrill of it.

Anglers who book with adaptable skippers – and use platforms like Reelzy -will continue to enjoy memorable wrecking trips throughout the season.

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Final Thoughts

The bass and pollack new rules for 2026 introduce both opportunity and adjustment. Bass limits rise, pollack restrictions protect a pressured stock, and charters evolve to keep the experience exciting.

By staying informed and booking through platforms that offer clarity and transparency, anglers can still make the most of every day on the water. Reelzy is built for exactly this – helping you find smart, compliant, and well-prepared charter operators for the year ahead.