Scottish Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead called for a "common sense" EU fish catch deal which balances conservation with the preservation of beleaguered fishing communities.

With the European Commission warning of more belt-tightening to ensure the industry's long-term survival, Mr Lochhead insisted: "Our fishermen need quota to fish and enough days at sea to catch that quota. It's not rocket science but each year we have to fight to persuade Europe to recognise this."

Talks starting today are due to end tomorrow afternoon – if ministers can agree another mixed package of Commission proposals which maintain some of last year's quotas but reduce others.

EU Fisheries Commissioner, Maria Damanaki, warned: "We have to think long-term. European fishermen face a bleak future without sustainable, healthy stocks.

"Thanks to long-term management a number of stocks in the Atlantic waters are already fished at sustainable levels. But at the same time 47% of stocks are still overfished. These facts support the Commission's vision for Common Fisheries Policy Reform."

In line with scientific advice, the Commission is proposing to keep or even increase total catch quotas for 16 stocks, including some cod, sole and Norway lobster – but reducing permitted catch allowances for 47 stocks deemed to be below sustainable stock levels.

Mr Lochhead said: "Scottish fishermen await the outcome of this week's talks in Brussels with bated breath.

"For years now, time after time, we have found ourselves battling with the EU's crazy and often contradictory policies.

"Any sensible person knows that this is no way to take decisions that affect thousands of livelihoods. But that is the situation we face.

"We have to strike the right balance between continuing to protect stocks and safeguarding our fishing communities."