Total Allowable Catch (TAC)

Total Allowable Catch (TAC) is the maximum amount of a specific fish species that can be legally caught within a certain period, typically annually. Fisheries management authorities determine TAC based on scientific assessments of fish populations to ensure sustainability. By setting this limit, they aim to prevent overfishing, protect marine ecosystems, and allow fish stocks to replenish. Fishers are then allocated portions of the TAC, helping balance economic activity with conservation. In essence, TAC serves as a crucial tool to manage fish resources responsibly for current and future generations.