Abstract This paper identifies recent developments and existing measures relevant to the management of fishing vessels operating in the Southern Ocean. It identifies that currently a piecemeal approach has been taken to the management of the safety and environmental impact of fishing vessels resulting in an ad hoc patchwork of regulation. The paper identifies a new opportunity for review, amendment, improvement and consolidation of the existing framework through the development of a mandatory Polar Code. However, recognizing that the work on the Polar Code is unlikely to be completed for another two years proposes two conservation measures which would harmonize requirements for fishing vessels throughout the Convention Area.