Closed or restricted area maps

Marine Protected Area Maps

There are a number of marine protected areas in Isle of Man territorial waters, including Marine Nature Reserves (MNRs), scallop fishery closed areas, experimental areas etc. Areas previously listed as closed, restricted or conservation zones were designated as Marine Nature Reserves from 1^st September 2018. Commercial mobile fishing gear, e.g. dredges, trawls etc., will continue to be restricted in these areas. Static fishing gear (pots) are allowed, except in eel grass conservation zones, and, as before, in the relevant existing areas of Ramsey Bay MNR. Please see MNR Questions & Answers, the individual MNR pages and relevant legislation for further information.

Overview of marine nature reserves within Manx Territorial Sea Area

Overview of closed/restricted areas within Manx Territorial Sea Area

There are currently TEN Marine Nature Reserves

• Baie Ny Carrickey MNR (Port St Mary)
• Calf and Wart Bank MNR
• Douglas Bay MNR
• Langness MNR
• Laxey Bay MNR
• Little Ness MNR
• Niarbyl Bay MNR
• Port Erin Bay MNR
• Ramsey Bay MNR
• West Coast MNR

And TWO closed or restricted areas.

• Scallop Fishery (All Island) 
• Experimental Research Area (East Douglas)

If you are a commercial fisherman these details can also be found in your current Isle of Man Licence Schedule:

IOM Conditions and Variations

For further information regarding each of these areas please consult the relevant Bye-Laws or contact: