Norwegian Pelagic Fishing Report – Week 05 of 2026:
Strong week for NVG herring sees 38,740 tonnes landed, alongside blue whiting, mackerel, sprat and horse mackerel catches. Photo: Andreas Møgster/Norges Sildesalgslag
NVG Herring Landings Approach 39,000 Tonnes
Fishing activity for NVG herring remained strong this week, with total reported landings of 38,740 tonnes. The fishery extended from waters southwest of Sørøya to offshore areas northwest of Tromsø.
A total of 45 vessels reported catches, predominantly Norwegian boats, with both Faroese and British vessels again participating in the fishery for what is often referred to as the “silver of the sea”.
The herring averaged 266 grams, with individual fish ranging from 181 grams to 320 grams. While it is still considered slightly early for fully developed roe herring, the fish are becoming increasingly mature, a trend expected to develop further in the coming weeks.
Blue Whiting Sold for Human Consumption
Blue whiting also featured in this week’s fishing activity. On Wednesday, the vessel Malene S reported 810 tonnes of blue whiting sold through the consumption auction.
In addition, 2,555 tonnes of blue whiting were reported for reduction into fishmeal and oil by three vessels. Fishing activity has so far taken place within the EU zone, with expectations now turning to the international zone, where fishing conditions were particularly favourable last year.
Baltic Sprat Delivered to Egersund
The Swedish vessel Themis delivered 1,950 tonnes of Baltic sprat to Egersund this week, having steamed from the Baltic Sea. The landing underlines continued cross-regional movements to supply pelagic raw material to Norwegian ports.
Mackerel and Horse Mackerel Landings
Mackerel landings were reported on Sunday by the Swedish vessel Astrid, which delivered 480 tonnes. The mackerel averaged 457 grams.
Horse mackerel was also landed in smaller quantities. On Tuesday, Athena reported 17 tonnes, with an average weight of 480 grams.
Outlook for Coming Weeks
With NVG herring becoming steadily more mature and blue whiting activity expected to expand into international waters, the coming weeks are likely to remain busy for the pelagic fleet. Participation from multiple nations continues to underline the scale and importance of these fisheries at this point in the season.
