Shrimp fishers leave industry as buyout scheme reduces fleet
Many shrimp fishers in the Netherlands are ceasing operations. Of the 161 licensed vessels, nearly a third are expected to be phased out. The sector itself requested this downsizing after years of discussions with the government and Brussels, NOS reported.
As of mid-December 2025, 48 fishermen had enrolled in the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) buyout program. The scheme, called the Shrimp Fishery Remediation Scheme by the RVO, aims to permanently reduce fishing intensity, protect Natura 2000 nature reserves, and improve the economic outlook for the remaining fleet.
Fishing areas in Natura 2000 zones, including the Wadden Sea, are becoming increasingly restricted. Fishers are also required to invest up to 100,000 euros per vessel in new engines to comply with nitrogen regulations. Another reason cited for the exodus is a lack of Dutch staff. With such high costs and an uncertain future, exiting the industry is seen as the safest way to avoid debt.
On a recent outing, fishermen caught almost 200 kilograms of shrimp in 24 hours, earning roughly 1,200 euros. The shrimp were slightly undersized, which is typical for this season.
One fisherman, Daan Hermans, spoke to NOS about his decision to quit. “My father purchased that boat 32 years ago, the year I was born. Now it’s being scrapped, which, in a way, sums up the story.”
Hermans will continue fishing in Germany until February before quitting. “Continuing was too risky. The important thing is that I’ll soon be debt-free. My father is sad about it, but he understands; he wants me to have a happy life.”
