The whiting population in the West of Scotland is below target levels, but is not subject to overfishing. Some appropriate management measures are in place for West of Scotland whiting. Historically, the stock has been subject to significant overfishing. Most whiting catches are by trawling, which is likely to cause some damage to the seabed. Bycatch is moderate and may include vulnerable species.Rating last updated August 2025.

North Sea whiting is not overfished and not subject to overfishing. There are some but not all appropriate management measures in place. They are caught as part of a human consumption fishery and catch limits are the main management measure. From 2023 onward, human consumption catch does not have a separate quota. Most whiting catches are by otter trawls, which are likely to cause some damage to the seabed. Bycatch is moderate and may include vulnerable species such as blue and flapper skate, and cod.Rating last updated August 2024.

There is very little information about Rockall whiting, and both biomass and fishing pressure appear to be of concern. There is no management plan and management requires considerable improvement. The main concern in this fishery is that landings consistently exceed advice. Most whiting in this area are bycatch by otter trawls. There are some vulnerable habitats and species in this area, which could be affected by the fishery.Rating last updated August 2024.

North Sea whiting is not overfished and not subject to overfishing. There are some but not all appropriate management measures in place. They are caught as part of a human consumption fishery and catch limits are the main management measure. From 2023 onward, human consumption catch does not have a separate quota. Part of the fishery is MSC certified, but the certification is conditional on improving management. Most whiting catches are by otter trawls, which are likely to cause some damage to the seabed. Bycatch is moderate and may include vulnerable species such as blue and flapper skate, and cod. In the certified component of the fishery, vessels have implemented measures to improve monitoring and reduce bycatch.Rating last updated August 2024.