Effort to harvest the UK whelk fishery has grown significantly in recent years, but life history traits could mean that local whelk populations are vulnerable to exploitation or environmental events. Low dispersal rates and a sedentary life-style make whelk populations vulnerable to overfishing. A Minimum Landing Size (MLS) of 45mm is the only current UK-wide management measure for whelk inherited from the EU. Research suggests a MLS of 45mm is too small to sufficiently protect recruitment in many areas. Outside 6nm there are no effort restrictions or additional management measures except in Wales where a Whelk Fishing Permit Order sets an annual catch limit. Within 0-6nm regional IFCAs have introduced a variety of measures including flexible permit byelaws, specific minimum size limits reflecting regional variation in size of maturity, effort restrictions such as pot limits and riddle specifications. Collaborative research is underway to investigate whelk stocks and inform more effective management measures. A Whelk Fisheries Management Plan for English waters is due to be published by the end of 2023.