Norwegian mackerel fishing dropped sharply in week 20, with only 26 tonnes landed along the coast. The figure is far below normal levels for mid-May and well below the 110 tonnes caught in the same week last year.
Norges Sildesalgslag writes that the weak fishing was linked to cold northerly winds and lower sea temperatures. Fishers also reported a low bait bloom in the sea, which normally helps attract fish.
Low mackerel catches in southern Norway
The mackerel was caught in several municipalities in Rogaland and Vestland counties. Average fish size was reported at 400 to 500 grams. The catch was sold for fresh consumption in Norway and abroad.
At the same time, Norway recorded only one blue whiting catch last week. The vessel “Dyrnesvåg” caught 360 tonnes of blue whiting and 30 tonnes of strømsild west of Stavanger. Fishing conditions were described as uneven, with the best fishing furthest south.
No new catches from Faroese waters
No catches were reported last week from the Faroese zone, where fishing had continued since Easter. Norwegian vessels are no longer planning fishing activity there, while Faroese vessels remain active in the area.
Norwegian vessels have caught 38,000 tonnes in Faroese waters, while Faroese vessels have reported 12,000 tonnes from the same zone.
North Sea herring fishers remain cautious
Norwegian fishers are also delaying the start of the North Sea herring season because of reports of extremely low fat content in the herring. Industry sources said warmer weather is needed before fishing activity increases.