Shellfish boom nets record year for fishing industry

THE total value of landings by Scotland's fishing fleet reached a record £380 million last year – 4 per cent up on 2006 – it was revealed yesterday.

But a report from the Scottish Government has also revealed varying fortunes for the three main sectors of the industry.

The value of shellfish landings increased by 16 per cent to £163 million, while the volume rose 13 per cent to 67,000 tonnes.

But the value of white fish landings fell by 4 per cent to £130 million while volumes dropped 5 per cent, and the volume of pelagic (deep water) species landed fell by 5 per cent with the value down 1 per cent.

The number of active fishing vessels fell by only 1 per cent during the year, with 2,191 boats operating in Scotland. However, provisional numbers indicate a 4 per cent increase to 5,435 in the number of fishermen employed in the industry.