LNTM 23-36 – Pot Marker Buoys

All Mariners are advised:

We have noticed a significant increase in the number of pot marker buoys in and around the harbour entrance.  All mariners are asked to keep a good lookout in this area.

All fishers, both Commercial or Leisure, are reminded that permission must be granted by the Harbour Master for any pots laid in the harbour, even if you already have a permit from IFCA or the MMO.

At present only 4 boats have permission from the Harbour Master – if you are unsure if you have permission then you do not.

Permission for laying pots will only be granted in the following circumstances:

• All pot buoys must be clearly marked with the vessel name and number
• All pot buoys must be in good condition and clearly visible (i.e. bright colour, not covered in weed)
• Buoyant line must not be used
• Pot buoys must not be laid in the main channel, or within 50m of the white sector of any sector light
• Pot buoys must not be laid within mooring fields, or otherwise where they may interfere with safe navigation.
• Pot buoys must not be laid in the narrow part of the harbour entrance between a line from Kingswear Castle to Checkstone buoy and a line from Stumpy Steps (Castle Ferry Steps) and Unknown Grave sector light. Marked as red in the figure below.

Dart Harbour will begin an active program to remove any buoys and tackle that do not have permission, or do not follow the above rules from 1st August 2026.  Any catch will be returned to the sea and and gear or tackle will only be returned to the owner on payment of the cost of the removal operation.

J Handley – Assistant Harbour Master

Issued 27th July 2026