North Wales cockle fishery: cockle beds

The current status for North Wales cockle beds are:

• Traeth Lafan open from 3^rd August 2026
• Traeth Melynog open from 4^th August 2026 until 26^th August 2026
• Red Wharf Bay to remain closed until further notice
  North Wales cockle fishery: opening declaration 

North Wales cockle beds are managed under The Cockle Fishing Management and Permitting (Specified Area) (Wales) Order 2024. 

The new order came into force in 2024. It replaces

• The Cockles and Mussels (Specified Areas) (Wales) Order 2011
• Byelaw 47 of the former South Wales Sea Fisheries Committee. 

Applicants must use our online service to apply for a cockle gathering permit and submit catch returns.