Whitefish Landings Remain High Despite Slight Decline
The fishing industry at Lerwick Harbour recorded steady activity during 2025, with 218,832 boxes of whitefish landed, down 8% compared with the previous year.
Despite the reduction, market values for both whitefish and pelagic fish remained robust, reflecting sustained demand across European markets.
Chief Executive Capt. Calum Grains noted that Lerwick Harbour continued to support a wide range of maritime activity, with fishing remaining a core sector alongside offshore energy, cargo and cruise operations. He said, “While vessel numbers and tonnage have varied compared with the previous year, the overall picture demonstrates the strength of our diverse business with growth in cargo and continued activity across energy, fishing and cruise sectors.”
Fishing vessel arrivals were slightly lower, decreasing by 5% over the year, while pilotage movements associated with fishing and other vessels increased by 6% to 1,327, highlighting steady operational demand despite changes in vessel size and activity.
The port also saw investment in infrastructure, including dredging works at the middle harbour at North Ness Channel, Mair’s Pier, Gremista and Dales Voe, scheduled for completion in autumn 2026. These improvements are expected to enhance access and operational capacity, benefiting the fishing fleet alongside other harbour users.
Looking ahead, Capt. Grains said opportunities exist for continued support of the fishing sector, alongside oil, gas and offshore energy developments, ensuring that Lerwick Harbour remains a vital hub for local fisheries and the wider Shetland economy.
