Round 4 of the UK Seafood Fund Infrastructure Scheme is now open to applications, with £1 million available to upgrade recreational fishing facilities.

The UK Seafood Fund has been set up to support projects that build capability across the seafood sector’s supply chain. Round 4 of the scheme is now open, with a focus on recreational sea fishing.

Projects that improve and develop better infrastructure for the recreational sea fishing sector are in scope. Proposals which promote and support environmental sustainability, sustainable fishing practices and the socio-economic sustainability of coastal communities, are also encouraged.

Up to £1 million of funding is available, and applicants may bid for between £10,000 and £100,000.

Recreational sea fishing involves fishing for the purposes of pleasure, tourism or sport. The practice boosts local economies through activities such as fishing tournaments, boat rental, bait and tackle supply, and local tourism.

Those who are involved in fishing, processing or aquaculture in the UK may qualify for support.

The deadline for applications is 19 June 2023.

How To Apply

Round 3

Applications for round 3 are open until midday on 31 October 2023 (or until Defra has allocated all the funding). Round 3 will focus on modernising the fleet through engine replacements.

Find out more information and how to apply for round 3 of the Infrastructure Scheme.

Round 4

Round 4: recreational sea fishing is now open. The deadline for applications is 19 June 2023 (12:00 BST).

Applications are made online.

For more information, visit the UK Government website.