Norway’s coastal fleet is pushing ahead with strong catches of Norwegian Spring-Spawning herring (NVG herring). At the same time, the country’s mackerel quota for 2025 has now been fully taken.
Last week, 25,000 tonnes of NVG herring were reported, primarily from Kvænangen, with some catches also made south of Sørøya and around Stjernøya. Smaller volumes were also taken near Smøla, Hitra and Frøya.
Herring Catch Continues
The coastal fleet is now the main driver in the NVG herring fishery. Ringnet vessels are nearing completion, and the trawler group has already finished its quota.
The coastal group has approximately 27,000 tonnes remaining of its 2025 allowance of 118,449 tonnes, while the ringnet group has around 4,500 tonnes remaining of its total quota of 111,636 tonnes.
Herring size has remained good, with catches ranging mainly from above 300 grams to 347 grams.
Mackerel Quota Reached
Meanwhile, 6,519 tonnes of mackerel were reported from nine vessels working between Shetland and the Norwegian Exclusive Economic Zone boundary.
The largest catch came from the Shetland vessel Research, landing 1,580 tonnes at Ellingsøy. With these landings, Norway’s 2025 mackerel quota of 152,256 tonnes is now fully taken.
Other Pelagic Species
The week also saw 2,434 tonnes of North Sea herring landed, split between meal and oil for human consumption. Sizes varied widely.
Additionally, Danish vessels reported 350 tonnes of sprat for consumption and 2,300 tonnes for meal/oil production. Smaller volumes of coastal sprat, horse mackerel and blue whiting were also reported.