Two fishing vessels are expected to leave Neskaupstaður on Monday evening to begin capelin fishing, following positive results from recent survey work off the Icelandic coast. The vessels are Barði NK and the Greenlandic ship Polar Amaroq.
Síldarvinnslan writes on its website that five vessels have been searching for capelin since early last week. Capelin has been found across a wide area, raising confidence ahead of the season.
Iceland’s Marine and Freshwater Research Institute has confirmed that data from the survey is now being analysed, with official advice for the season expected in the coming days.
Survey results lift expectations
The research institute said the survey data would be reviewed before publishing its advice. The news has created strong optimism within the fleet. Industry attention is now focused on the size and timing of any recommended catch levels.
Two vessels are ready in Neskaupstaður
Polar Amaroq landed the first capelin of the season in Neskaupstaður last Tuesday. The fish was caught using a pelagic trawl.
Since then, both purse seine and deep seine gear have been taken on board, signalling readiness for different fishing methods. Barði NK also took part in the capelin search and is now fully prepared for fishing.
Search covered large sea areas
According to Barði NK skipper Theodór Haraldsson, the search stretched from the Kolbeinsey Ridge south to the Reyðarfjörður Deep. He said most fish were detected east of Iceland.
The vessel is ready for trawl fishing and is also being prepared for seine operations. The skipper described the situation as “very interesting” and said the fleet is waiting for the research advice later this week.