District & Zones

Dunes on a sunny day at the Northumberland coast.

The NIFCA district encompasses the vibrant inshore waters along the Northumberland and North Tyneside coastline. Our jurisdiction stretches from the centre of the River Tyne in the south to the Scottish border in the north, extending out to six nautical miles from the baseline.

This area also includes all rivers and estuaries within the district up to their National Tidal Limit (NTL). The NIFCA district represents a diverse marine landscape that we are proud to patrol, manage, and protect.

Explore the NIFCA district

Special Areas of Conservation

View details View details

Special Protection Areas

View details View details View details View details View details

Marine Conservation Zones

View details View details View details
Reset selection

Our headquarters

Explore the district in depth

Beyond enforcement, we are committed to the scientific health of our waters. Our ongoing environmental monitoring and surveys, conducted throughout the district, provide the essential data required to track species health and habitat recovery. By integrating this research into our daily operations, we can adapt our fisheries management strategies to meet the region’s evolving needs.

Visit us in Blyth

The NIFCA office is located toward the south of the district in Blyth. We welcome visitors who wish to collect tags, seek guidance on regulations, or speak directly with an Officer regarding activities within the district.

Contact us

Blyth pier and lighthouse pictured from dunes.

Discover what we do

The NIFCA district covers six nautical miles of vital inshore waters, stretching from the River Tyne to the Scottish border. Explore the links below to see how we manage, protect, and remain accountable for these diverse coastal environments.

Fisheries patrol boat in Cullercoats bay.

Compliance & Enforcement

Discover how our team patrols the coast to ensure fair play and protect our shared marine resources through proactive enforcement.

Explore Compliance & Enforcement

Small starfish on seaweed.

Conservation

Learn how we safeguard the ecological health of the district. We conduct essential scientific monitoring and surveys to ensure a sustainable future across the inshore zone.

Explore Conservation

Transparency

NIFCA operates with a commitment to public accountability. See how we make decisions, report on our performance, and balance the needs of the region's fishing community.

Explore Transparency