The big-scale sand smelt is commonly used as bait by fishers targeting larger species. As a result, it can be subject to localised overfishing, which may impact population sizes in certain areas.

In Mediterranean coastal regions, the main pressures affecting this species are largely linked to human activity. Habitat degradation caused by coastal development, pollution, and seafloor disturbance can reduce the quality of the shallow waters where juveniles and shoals typically thrive. The species may also be affected by broader environmental changes, including rising sea temperatures and shifts in prey availability associated with climate change.

Additionally, high levels of boat traffic and recreational activity in coastal zones can disturb or displace shoals, potentially altering their natural behaviour and feeding patterns. While the species is not currently considered endangered, these combined pressures can make local populations sensitive to human impacts.