Value of fish landings up by 25 per cent in 2016

Image credit: PA

The value of fish landed by Scottish registered boats increased by a quarter in 2016 against the year before, according to official statistics.

The figures show that 453 thousand tonnes of sea fish and shellfish were landed by Scottish vessels last year, with a value of £557m.

There were 2,033 active fishing vessels registered in Scotland at the end of 2016, an increase of 19 vessels (0.9 per cent) from 2015.

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While the total quantity of fish landed increased by just three per cent, the Scottish Government put the 25 per cent increase in the value in pelagic species, which saw a 36 per cent increase in value.

The National Statistics Publication shows that nephrops remain the most valuable shellfish species, accounting for 14 per cent, or £77m, of the value of all landings.

In 2016, the overall number of fishermen employed on Scottish fishing vessels was reported at 4,823 which is consistent with the figure reported in 2015.

The figures show that mackerel remains the most valuable stock, accounting for 30 per cent of total value and earning £169m for Scottish boats.

In 2016, the value of mackerel landings increased in real terms by 27 per cent, while the quantity of mackerel landed decreased by six per cent and the average price of mackerel increased by 35 per cent.