Fishing leaders are demanding answers from ministers at Westminster and Holyrood on what independence could mean for the industry.
The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) has written to both governments posing key questions it wants answered before September’s referendum.
The federation has argued that the debate has been largely “superficial” so far, with no proper analysis of the risks or benefits.
SFF chief executive Bertie Armstrong said: “You get only one shot at this and once it is done, it is done.
“If you make the wrong decision in the light of wrong information or lack of thought, you are in the deepest trouble.”
The SFF has already expressed concerns over the implications of a split from the UK, and the prospect of a “limbo” period between a Yes vote and an independent Scotland gaining membership of the EU.
When the concerns were highlighted in the Press and Journal last week, there was considerable backlash from the pro-independence camp.
In the letter, sent to Scottish Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead and UK Fisheries Minister George Eustice, the SFF stresses it is apolitical and cannot take a stand on independence.
However, the organisation points out that it is charged by its members to ask questions to help individual fishermen make up their minds.
The SFF has identified key areas where more clarity and risk assessment is needed.
These include the timescale for EU entry.
Based on its experience with EU negotiations, the SFF believes the Scottish Government’s 18-month timeframe is unrealistic.
It would like to know, what might happen to existing fishing quotas.
The SFF also wants answers on currency and tax arrangements and how they will impact on the future business environment.