Two local nominations for fishing awards

SHETLAND features twice in the shortlist for this year’s Fishing News Awards.

Cullivoe in Yell has again been nominated for port of the year.

The Land in Shetland campaign – which encourages fishing boats to land their catch in the isles – has also been recognised.

Daniel Lawson from Shetland Fishermen’s Association (SFA) said: “Both nominations are a testament to the quality of Shetland’s harbour infrastructure, simultaneously relied on and supported by the fishing industry that’s so important for our islands.

“Whilst fishing crews will always press the need for investment, development and modernisation to keep that essential infrastructure intact and up to date, SFA members will be very supportive of these nominations – and we encourage others in Shetland to lend their support by voting online for Cullivoe and the Land in Shetland campaign.”

Cullivoe Pier, operated by Shetland Islands Council is described as an “essential hub” for the North Sea fishing fleet.

Landings across all species at Cullivoe have increased from 2,745t in 2022 to 2,870t in 2023, with the value reaching almost £8 million.

The council’s small ports supervisor Ross Maclennan told Fishing News: “We continue to support all the users and vessels to help the port’s future growth and its contribution to the local economy.”

In addition Cullivoe officially opened a new 27-berth small-boat marina in 2023, allowing more under-10m fishing boats to base themselves at the harbour.

It is also a base for the wider seafood industry, with mussel production, sea angling tourism and salmon farming enjoying a strong presence.

Meanwhile the Land in Shetland campaign is coordinated by the council and Lerwick Port Authority with support from local partners.

With two new fish markets in Lerwick and Scalloway, the project aims to remind skippers that landing their catches in Shetland can save them “time, fuel, money and carbon”.

A spokesperson told Fishing News: “We have seen a 23 per cent growth in landings from mainland-registered vessels, all benefiting from a combination of great service, top prices and data from the campaign, which informed skippers of everything the Shetland markets have to offer.”

Voting is open for the Fishing News awards online.

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