Darren Wilson, master of Northern Irish registered fishing vessel Northern Viking (N74), and owners Kearney Trawlers Ltd, were sentenced at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on 10 July 2025.
The court heard how Northern Viking, a 20.4 metre stern trawler, was boarded for a routine inspection by officers from MMO on 15 January 2022.
Upon boarding the vessel, it was noted that the satellite tracking system did not appear to be working. It is a legal requirement to have a fully operational system while undertaking fishing activity. Officers were also unable to view the electronic log, as the onboard laptop was not working, meaning the previous days catch had not been recorded.
When officers inspected the fish room, Mr Wilson was advised that the mixed fish in boxes needed to be sorted into separate species and logged, if the quantity was above 50kg. Upon further inspection, it was found that the weight of fish was higher than what was declared in the logbook and some sole and plaice were above or below the minimum conservation reference size, meaning they should have been stored separately.
Both parties pleaded guilty to all offences in court. Kearney Trawlers Ltd was fined £40,000, costs of £4,112.80 and a £190 victim surcharge. Darren Wilson was fined £1,195, costs of £457 and a £120 victim surcharge.
MMO Director of Operations, Peter Clark said
It’s our responsibility to protect and manage fish stocks sustainably for the wider fishing industry and future generations. It is therefore important for owners and masters to follow the rules that are in place.
We will always take proportionate and appropriate action, including prosecution, to make sure that those who break the rules do not benefit from illegal activity.
