Norway reports rising fishery turnover amid poor salmon season

Fishery activity in Norway saw a significant increase during week 38. Turnover through Norges Råfisklag reached 245 million NOK, up from 170 million NOK the previous week. High activity was noted in Finnmark, with mackerel, cod, and haddock contributing to the growth. Mackerel was the most valuable species, with 2,444 tons traded for 57.3 million NOK.

In contrast, the wild salmon fishing season in Norway has been largely poor. Preliminary data from Norske Lakseelver suggests the total catch may end at approximately 48,000 salmon, potentially marking the second-worst season on record. Torfinn Evensen, Secretary General of Norske Lakseelver, attributed the decline to pressures such as sea lice from aquaculture, escaped farmed salmon, and climate change.

While some rivers in Nordland, Vestland, and Trøndelag performed well, many areas saw reduced catches due to environmental management decisions. The Norwegian Environment Agency (Miljødirektoratet) closed several rivers, including those in Trøndelag, either partially or entirely during the season.