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The moratorium effective December 24, 2013, prohibiting the fishing of corb for the next five years has stirred discontent among spearfishing enthusiasts. This decision seems unfair to those who feel victimized by their passion, which is often seen as politically incorrect in an era where ecology is prioritized.

Following the grouper (whose moratorium has been extended for another ten years), it is now the corb that fishermen must allow to thrive in front of their spearguns. Among the targets of the anger from these hunters is the GEM. The Group for the Study of the Grouper conducted a study on the location of corbs in the Mediterranean Sea, revealing surprising results: in 2011, at Scandola (Corsica), there were 33 times more corbs in protected areas than in zones open to all forms of fishing, including spearfishing. Corbs are virtually absent from open fishing areas, raising questions about the urgency of protecting the species.

Worse still, professional fishermen are not affected by this measure: Who has a greater impact on the species, professionals or recreational fishermen? It is difficult to determine. Nevertheless, Nicolas Chardin, head of the Mediterranean Interregional Sea Directorate, does not blame anyone: “No specific group is targeted by this moratorium; we are only seeking to protect the species, as we are obligated to do,” he reminds. There is little corb fishing with hooks, except by accident; it is primarily a fish for spearfishing. It is true that spearfishers are more affected, but this is a consequence of the regulation, not a cause.”

A legal challenge remains possible but is unlikely to succeed. Therefore, spearfishing for corb is off the table for the next five years, and failure to comply with this rule could result in a fine of up to €22,500! Quite steep for a corb, isn’t it?