- 13,700 tonnes of mackerel landed in Week 34, marking the best week so far.
- Strong winds and low-pressure systems limited optimal fishing time for larger vessels.
- Faroese vessels joined the mackerel hunt but reported only small catches.
Despite some success, mackerel fishing in the Norwegian Sea is still not in full swing. In Week 34, Norwegian vessels landed a total of 13,700 tonnes of mackerel, marking the best week of the autumn season.
Faroese vessels also entered the Norwegian sector over the weekend, hoping to join the mackerel hunt. However, their efforts have not yielded much success yet, with only small catches reported.
Weather and Elusive Mackerel Complicate Norwegian Fishing Efforts
Week 34 brought some success to the Norwegian mackerel fishing season, with 13,700 tonnes of mackerel landed. Despite this, the fishing season has yet to reach full swing. Friday was the most productive day, with 3,100 tonnes brought ashore, but the rest of the week was challenging due to adverse weather conditions.
Low-pressure systems and strong winds dominated the week, making it difficult for larger vessels to spend enough time fishing. With only a few hours of optimal conditions available, many vessels struggled to achieve substantial hauls. Initially, trawl nets were the primary method used to catch mackerel, but as the week progressed, seine nets became more effective.
Adding to the difficulties was the behavior of the mackerel itself, which has been particularly skittish. This made it harder to catch, regardless of the fishing method used. Crews faced frustration as the mackerel evaded both nets and trawls, further complicating the week’s efforts.
Faroese vessels also entered the scene over the weekend, hoping to capitalize on the mackerel stocks in the Norwegian sector. However, their catch has been minimal so far. The combination of challenging weather, elusive fish, and competition from other vessels has kept the mackerel season from reaching its peak.
As Week 34 comes to a close, the Norwegian mackerel season remains challenging, with weather, skittish fish, and increased competition keeping fishing efforts in check.
“The mackerel has been particularly skittish and difficult to catch, whether using nets or trawls.”
