Shetland survey shows strong young fish stocks, promising future for whitefish, with calls for protecting nursery areas
Survey Finds Strong Recruitment for Future Whitefish Stocks
Hopes are high for the future of Shetland’s whitefish stocks as a recent survey detected an abundance of young fish.
While catch rates for mature haddock, cod, and whiting were at the lower end compared to recent years—highlighting the cyclical nature of fish populations—juvenile fish were found in greater numbers than previously observed.
These findings were revealed by the 2024 Shetland Inshore Fish Survey (SIFS), an independent study conducted by marine scientists from UHI Shetland.
Key Survey Insights
The SIFS, conducted annually since 2011 using UHI Shetland’s research vessel Atlantia II (LK 502), assesses the distribution, abundance, and population structure of fish species in local waters. The 2024 survey was carried out across 52 pre-defined locations, including 25 shallow areas identified as potential nursery grounds within 12 nautical miles of Shetland.
Dr Shaun Fraser, Senior Fisheries Scientist at UHI Shetland, explained:
“The average catch rates for most of the main commercial gadoids, i.e., haddock, cod, and whiting, were at the lower end of observed catch rates over the survey time series.
“However, more positively, in all cases there was more evidence of a strong age-0 year-class in 2024 than in 2023.”
He added: “While the future survival rates of undersize fish are uncertain, past results suggest further strong recruitment to the local fishery for some gadoid species. High abundances in larger length classes may again be observed in future surveys.”
Notable Trends
The survey recorded high catch rates of spurdog, John Dory, and horse mackerel. Additionally, scaldfish and imperial scaldfish—flatfish species more commonly found further south—were documented for the first time. Squid catch rates remained strong in specific nearshore areas, following record levels in 2023.
Industry Response
Daniel Lawson, Executive Officer of the Shetland Fishermen’s Association, welcomed the findings:
“These results are encouraging, particularly for nursery grounds, which are vital to Shetland’s fisheries ecosystem.
“However, they underline the importance of protecting nursery and spawning areas from inshore developments, especially as several such projects are in the planning stage.”
Lawson also emphasised the value of long-term survey work, stating:
“Data from these surveys highlights the cyclical nature of fish stocks, helping to inform decision-making and avoid knee-jerk policies that create instability for fishermen.
“The research conducted by UHI Shetland, using the Atlantia II, is critical to an evidence-based approach to fisheries management, which stands in stark contrast to the misplaced ideology driving many environmental NGOs.”
Source: Press Release
