Norges Sildesalgslag reports that rough weather makes life hard for pelagic fishers along the coast. High winds and waves keep many boats in port, but some still bring in solid catches.
Seven vessels worked the North Sea herring last week. Four are Norwegian, three are foreign. Together they bring in 4,811 tonnes.
Foreign boats land the biggest hauls, between 670 and 1,500 tonnes each, mostly from British waters. Norwegian boats fish along their own coastline, but the catches here are smaller.
Mackerel Brings Steady Activity
The mackerel fishery runs well along the Møre coast. Many report good light-sign catches in these waters. Boats also work further south, from the Vestland coast down to Stavanger. Fish sizes range from 260 to 400 grams. Total mackerel landings stand at 432 tonnes for the week.
Two boats target blue whiting along the edge of the continental shelf. Together they bring in 840 tonnes. This fish is primarily used for the production of meal and oil, a key ingredient for fish feed and other uses.
Sprat Fleet Waits for Calm
Bad weather also hampers the sprat fishery. Even so, seven boats now work the grounds, hoping for better results as the week continues.
The week shows the sharp contrast of Norway’s summer fishing. Where the weather allows, fishers see good catches. Where storms strike, nets stay empty. For many crews, the challenge is simply getting out to sea.