As The Tall Ships Races grace Shetland's shores once again, there's no better time to celebrate the deep-rooted connection between Shetland and the sea through its thriving fishing industry. For thousands of years, Shetlanders have relied on the abundant waters surrounding their home. We spoke with Shetland Fishermen, who are a sponsor for The Tall Ships Races' visit to Lerwick to gather information about the fishing industry, past, present, and future. In this blog, we'll explore the historical and present-day importance of fishing to Shetland - emphasising its economic, environmental, and cultural significance.
Shetland Fishermen is the collective term used for the Shetland Fish Producers’ Organisation (SFPO), Shetland Fishermen’s Association (SFA), and Shetland Shellfish Management Organisation – which all share offices above the brand-new fish market in Lerwick. The three organisations have very different remits but together represent local fishing crews – working across all aspects of the industry including quota management, marketing, quality control, safety and training, political and public representation, and the management of Shetland’s unique shellfish licencing powers.
It's no secret that fishing is the cornerstone of Shetland's economy. With fish and shellfish landings worth a staggering £138 million annually, the industry plays a vital role in sustaining local businesses and livelihoods. In fact, 30% of Shetland employers rely on the fishing industry for their operations, highlighting its crucial contribution to the overall economic landscape, providing essential income for households in every area of the isles.
Brian Isbister, chief executive of the Shetland Fish Producers' Organisation, says “It’s fantastic to support the Tall Ships Races once again bringing boatloads of enthusiastic young folk from all over the world to Shetland’s shores. Hopefully, they will leave with an appetite for Shetland’s world-class seafood, and an appreciation of a fishing tradition that stretches over thousands of years into today’s modern, dynamic, and locally owned Shetland fishing fleet – responsibly providing sustainable and healthy food from the productive waters around our islands.”
Shetland's fishing practices reflect a deep commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The carbon cost of wild-caught Shetland fish is remarkably low compared to other protein sources, such as chicken, which can have up to an 80% higher carbon footprint than locally landed mackerel and herring. Beyond emissions reduction, Shetland fishing vessels actively participate in initiatives aimed at preserving marine ecosystems such as recycling redundant fishing nets and engaging in KIMO's 'Fishing For Litter' scheme, contributing to the clean-up of marine litter around the islands. Moreover, careful quota management and scientific surveys conducted by UHI Shetland ensure responsible fishing practices, safeguarding the long-term sustainability of fish stocks and shellfish populations.
Shetland's fishing fleet remains uniquely family-owned - this enduring tradition not only fosters a sense of heritage but also ensures the economic future of the community. The Shetland Fishermen's Association, representing over 115 local commercial fishing vessels, serves as the authentic voice of Shetland's sustainable and family-owned fishing fleet. The organisation has also recently published a special book to commemorate its 75th anniversary. It is available to buy via the Shetland Fishermen offices, the LHD shop and The Shetland Times Bookshop. Daniel Lawson said: “The book is a high-quality history of fishing in Shetland with some excellent photographs that capture the different eras extremely well” - a great gift for anyone interested or who wants to know more about the industry.
The efforts of Shetland Fishermen reflect the commitment to preserving the cultural heritage and economic vitality of the local fishing fleet. Fishing is more than just an occupation in Shetland; it is a way of life. An embodiment of the islanders' resilience and connection to their environment.
Link for the book https://www.shetlandfishermen.com/shop/shetland-fishermen-yearbook-2023
