Vestmannaey trawlers Bergey VE and Vestmannaey VE have landed fish twice in Neskaupstaður this week, with a second landing completed today after a return to sea amid worsening weather conditions.
The two vessels landed first on Monday and again today. Catches were modest. Skippers said the year has started slowly, with uneven fishing and harsh weather in recent trips.
Two landings in one week
On Monday, Bergey VE landed 46 tonnes. Most of the catch came from the fishing ground known as Gula teppið after weaker results elsewhere. The vessel sailed again straight after landing, but conditions at sea deteriorated.
Today, Bergey VE landed around 30 tonnes, mainly cod. The fish was taken from Gula teppið, Grunnfætur and Litladýpi.
Slow start and rough weather
Vestmannaey VE reported a first trip of about three days. The vessel fished across several areas, including Ingólfshöfði, Lónsbugt, Berufjarðarál and the Hvalbakur area. Results were limited, with short bursts of fish mainly around midday.
The first trip yielded 37 tonnes, mostly cod and haddock. The second trip was marked by terrible weather, especially early on, and produced 25 tonnes, mainly haddock. Fishing took place at Skrúðsgrunnur, Reyðarfjarðardýpi, Gerpisflak and Tangaflak.
Crews rotate before sailing again
Crew changes will take place on both vessels today. The trawlers are expected to head back to sea later today or this evening, weather permitting.
The landings highlight a cautious start to the year for the Vestmannaey fleet, with skippers pointing to patchy fishing and challenging winter conditions.