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As global appetites grow for healthy, sustainably sourced protein, the fishing industry is casting a wide net for young talent and those seeking a career change.

Fishing offers a challenging yet gratifying career, deeply rooted in the UK’s maritime heritage and crucial to global food security and national economic strength. In addition to its cultural importance, the industry is evolving and embracing sustainability, innovation, and responsible practices.

Now more than ever, it’s essential to raise awareness, provide skills training, and encourage the next generation to view the sea not as a boundary but as a gateway to a fulfilling and impactful future.

Varied job roles and opportunities

The potential for rewarding careers at sea is vast – but knowing your options and how to get started is hard. The fishing sector offers a wide variety of roles both at sea and onshore, with opportunities to suit different skills and interests.

Onboard a commercial pelagic freezer trawler, key positions include deck and factory hands, who handle day-to-day fishing and processing operations; First and Second Mates, qualified Ship’s officers who drive the ship and conduct  navigation and crew management roles; the Skipper, who is the captain and is responsible for the overall safety and operation of the vessel; and engineers, who support operations by ensuring all onboard systems run smoothly. Each role plays a critical part in the vessel’s success.

These highlight just a few roles aboard a pelagic freezer trawler like ours, but the fishing industry offers a broad scope of career paths.

Tips on getting started

Following are some practical steps to help prospective job seekers kickstart a career in the UK’s commercial fishing sector.

• Explore your options

Begin by seeking out the roles that interest you, ones that play to your strengths and a career you could see yourself enjoying in the long term. Researching job listings and fishing companies can help you gain insight into available positions, typical responsibilities, and salary expectations — focus on opportunities that align with your passion and skills. The website at the link is a good place to start:  https://www.careersatsea.org/

• Consider your location

The fishing industry can vary significantly by region, and opportunities may be limited depending on where you live; for instance, there will likely be more opportunities in coastal regions on smaller vessels. For larger vessels conducting longer trips, location is less of an issue, but relocating to areas with a more active fishing sector will help you to secure specific roles or work with particular companies.

• Understand industry regulations

Take time to learn about the national training and qualification policies and regulations. Being informed about the requirements can help you identify where you could fit in to, and progress within the industry.

• Think big

Consider your long-term goals — what role in the fishing industry excites you most? Start planning your path even if you’re not ready for that position yet. Create a career roadmap outlining the roles, skills, and qualifications you’ll need. For example, if you aim to become a skipper, identify the steps qualifications and experience required to get there.

• Build connections

Networking is a great way to gain insight into a maritime career; speak with anyone involved in the industry — from experienced crew members to career starters. Visit the docks early, request job experience opportunities, and show enthusiasm. Offering help, being courteous, and keeping your contact details ready can open up opportunities. Personal connections often lead to valuable introductions and jobs.

• Apply for an apprenticeship

Organisations such as Maritime UK, East Coast Maritime Training, and Trinity House offer guidance and hands-on training through cadetships and apprenticeships across the maritime industry.

At North Atlantic, we support Cadets committed to commercial fishing careers. We sponsor several students who have completed secondary education each year to attend Fleetwood Nautical College on a foundation degree course in marine engineering or deck operations. These programmes combine academic study with time out at sea, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world conditions.

Upon completion, graduates can begin working aboard vessels as trainee mates or junior engineer officers.

• Study maritime courses

Enrolling in a maritime course at a specialist maritime college is a great way to gain relevant qualifications and experience.  After completing a programme, you may be eligible to start as a trainee deckhand aboard a fishing vessel.

Training typically includes:

• Operating deck equipment, ropes, and fishing gear
• Storing and handling the catch
• Basic navigation
• Vessel maintenance
• Sea safety and first aid

• Apply directly

If you already have experience at sea or relevant safety certifications, you can find a position by contacting vessel skippers or fishing crew agencies directly. Many roles allow for on-the-job training, allowing you to build skills and progress within the industry.

Other routes

An excellent starting point for entering the fishing industry is the Introduction to Commercial Fishing course, supported by Seafish, an organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting the UK’s seafood sector.

The course is designed for individuals looking to begin work on a commercial fishing vessel. It provides essential knowledge and practical skills relevant to the industry and mandatory safety training units required to work at sea.

Charting your course

A career in fishing is more than a job — it’s a way of life that offers purpose, pride, and progression. Whether you’re looking to start your first career, change direction, or explore your passion for the ocean, this essential and evolving industry has vast opportunities. You can chart your course toward a rewarding future at sea by taking the first steps, gaining the proper training, and building meaningful connections.

In response to Greenpeace’s recent campaign, we want to provide clear and factual information about the pelagic fishing industry to address disinformation and mistruths.

Pelagic fishing is strictly regulated, science-led, sustainable, and plays a vital role in the UK and global seafood sector.

Supertrawlers in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

Greenpeace says: Large foreign supertrawlers (over 100m in length) are fishing in Scotland’s MPAs, damaging marine life and habitats

Fact: The presence of large vessels (over 100m in length) in Scotland’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) does not equate to environmental harm. The size of a fishing vessel is not directly linked to its fishing intensity or “catching power.” Large pelagic freezer trawlers are designed to carry out multiple operations at sea, including fishing, sorting, grading, freezing, packaging, and storage – functions that require significant onboard infrastructure, hence their larger size.

When designing management measures for MPAs, government agencies conduct thorough risk assessments to evaluate the potential for different fishing gears to impact protected species and habitats. Scientific studies and assessments have consistently demonstrated that pelagic fishing gear does not pose a risk to the protected features within MPAs. Unlike bottom-contacting gear, pelagic trawls operate in the water column without interacting with the seabed, minimising environmental impact. More details on the nature of pelagic gear can be found here.

Ultimately, if pelagic trawling posed a risk to protected marine environments, it would not be permitted within MPAs. Government authorities ensure that fishing activities within these areas align with conservation objectives, balancing sustainable fisheries with environmental protection.

Greenpeace says: Supertrawlers are catching hundreds of tonnes of fish daily

Fact: Factory freezer trawlers are designed to fish for certain species in large volumes to ensure operational efficiency and minimise carbon emissions. These vessels are only permitted to catch fish within limits allocated by government authorities based on scientifically assessed quotas that support sustainable fisheries management.

All catches are strictly monitored, with vessels required to submit daily electronic catch reports to fisheries authorities. This ensures full compliance with quota regulations and helps maintain the long-term sustainability of fish stocks.

Greenpeace says: There is unintentional capture of marine wildlife

Fact: There is always a risk of unintentional bycatch in any fishery. However, significant investments have been made in advanced technology and gear modifications to mitigate this risk. Modern echo sounder and sonar technology, acoustic and electromagnetic deterrent devices (“pingers”), and specialised net designs, including excluders and separators, all help marine mammals to avoid or escape capture.

Additionally, our vessel Frank Bonefaas has voluntarily participated in a government trial led by Cefas, equipping it with Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) technology, including CCTV cameras and sensors. This initiative provides up-to-date evidence of any unintentional bycatch, supporting efforts to improve bycatch reduction measures further. 

Greenpeace’s investigation and accusations

Greenpeace says: Foreign supertrawlers fished heavily in Scottish waters over the last five years, particularly near Shetland and the Hebrides

Fact: Pelagic species migrate throughout the North Eastern Atlantic and are found in Scottish waters during the fishing season. All pelagic factory freezer vessels operating in these waters are licensed and strictly regulated under fisheries management rules.

These operations are subject to rigorous control, including routine compliance inspections both at sea and ashore, to ensure adherence to regulations and sustainable fishing practices.

Greenpeace says: The UK Government is failing to protect MPAs

Fact: The UK Government has the authority to manage fishing activity within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and has implemented measures based on scientific assessments to protect sensitive marine habitats and species.

Fishing activities within MPAs are regulated through management measures assessing the risk of different fishing methods.

Greenpeace says: Supertrawlers land most of their catch abroad, bringing little economic benefit to the UK

Fact: Vessels from various nations have negotiated access to UK waters to fish for their allocated quotas of pelagic species.

UK fishing licence ‘Economic Link’ regulations ensure that UK-flagged vessels operating in English and Scottish waters provide a meaningful economic benefit to the UK. This can be met through measures such as employing UK-based crew or landing a proportion of their catch at UK ports and harbours.

As we enter a new year, we take a moment to reflect on what the fishing industry will need to focus on in 2025 to ensure its continued success, sustainability, and resilience. The pelagic fishing sector is a cornerstone of the global seafood economy, providing critical protein to millions and supporting livelihoods across coastal communities. Its importance can’t be overstated, but as the industry looks to the future, challenges and opportunities require fresh thinking, innovative solutions, and a commitment to collaboration.

The path forward will define the industry’s ability to thrive in turbulent waters. This includes safeguarding sustainable fish stocks and adopting cutting-edge technology like Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) and addressing wider issues such as space at sea, emission management, workforce development, and scientific partnerships. Here are some of the main areas demanding the sector’s focus as we move through 2025.

Safeguarding fish stocks for the future

Ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks is a key priority for the pelagic fishing industry, as it is each year. The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has issued advice for Total Allowable Catches (TACs) in 2025, calling for reductions in key species such as mackerel, herring, and blue whiting.

While these cuts present challenges, they are critical to safeguarding fish populations for the future. Sustainable TAC management allows fish stocks to recover and remain at levels that support maximum sustainable yield (MSY). This approach ensures food security, protects marine ecosystems, and sustains the livelihoods of thousands who depend on the fishing industry.

Collaboration across all fisheries is vital. By responsibly managing shared resources, we can prevent overfishing, protect biodiversity, and secure a sustainable future for marine environments and the industry.

Driving Sustainability with REM Technology

Adopting Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) camera technology is poised to be one of the most significant developments for the pelagic fishing industry in 2025. With emerging regulations, technological advances, and increasing government legislation and regulation, the momentum around REM is transforming how businesses operate in this vital sector.

Recently, our vessel, Frank Bonefaas, became the first “early adopter” to trial Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) in English waters as part of a collaborative initiative with the UK government, showcasing its practical advantages and signalling an industry-wide shift toward greater accountability and sustainability.

This year, what’s driving REM into the spotlight is Scotland’s new requirement that any vessel operating in its waters must be equipped with REM systems by September 2025, with full-scale compliance required by April 2026.

For the pelagic industry, the significance of REM cannot be overstated. The technology ensures compliance with catch quotas and environmental regulations and provides highly accurate, verifiable data that will enrich scientific evidence to better inform management decisions.  It also helps to  builds trust with regulators, markets, and consumers alike. In an era where transparency and sustainability are increasingly demanded, REM will be essential for demonstrating proper stewardship of marine resources.

Space at sea

Space at sea is set to be a major issue for the pelagic fishing industry this year, as the expansion of marine protected areas and offshore infrastructure developments such as wind farms continue to reduce access to traditional fishing grounds. This growing competition for sea space restricts where vessels can operate, creating significant challenges for catching essential food sources such as mackerel and herring.

While designated zones serve important conservation and renewable energy goals, fish are not stationary and migrate across vast areas, making static boundaries impractical for sustainable fisheries. Ensuring that the fishing industry is at the top table from the outset of discussion to provide context to inform subsequent decision making is the minimum requirement.  The Marine Policy statement requires inter alia, ‘productive oceans and seas’, securing adequate space for primary food production from the sea (fishing) in balance with environmental and offshore development needs will be a key focus for the sector this year.

Workforce for the Future

Attracting fresh talent to the pelagic fishing sector will be another key area; it is vital for building a workforce fit for the future. Highlighting the lucrative opportunities available for young people and those seeking a career change is essential, as the industry offers a modern and forward-thinking environment with a range of diverse roles, many of which are STEM-focused.

Unlike a typical desk job, careers in the pelagic industry provide hands-on experience, clear pathways for progression, and the opportunity to work in a dynamic sector that embraces innovation, technology, and sustainability. Inspiring the next generation will be key to the industry’s continued success.

Supporting Scientific Research

Supporting scientific research will remain a key focus for the pelagic fishing industry this year, as collaboration with scientists, researchers, and academics is crucial to provide the best possible evidence to support fisheries management decision making.  In turn, this will help to advance sustainability and improve fishing practices. The pelagic industry is committed to ensuring the most effective and responsible methods are employed, helping to protect fish stocks and the marine environment.

Our pelagic vessels often host fishery researchers, and additional scientific data is collected by quality managers on every trip through self-sampling, such as measuring fish size. This data is shared with national fisheries scientists at Cefas and in Europe via the Pelagic Freezer Trawler Association (PFA), which employs scientists to coordinate studies, contribute to ICES research, and participate in working groups. Strengthening these partnerships allows the industry to refine its practices, make science-based decisions, and play an active role in safeguarding the long-term health of the oceans.

Looking ahead

As the pelagic fishing industry navigates the challenges and opportunities of 2025, its focus on sustainability, innovation, collaboration, and adaptability will be critical. By balancing progress with responsibility and prioritising the health of marine ecosystems, the industry can continue providing vital food sources while securing a resilient and sustainable future for future generations.

North Atlantic Fishing Company (NAFCO) has been a cornerstone of sustainable fishing in the UK since its founding in 1984. Now celebrating 40 years of operations, we remain a leader in driving innovation while staying true to our mission of protecting the oceans and supporting local fishing communities.

Specialising in harvesting pelagic (midwater) species, we operate state-of-the-art factory freezer trawlers, enabling us to efficiently catch, process, and freeze fish at sea. Our pelagic vessels fish for only four species: mackerel, herring, horse mackerel and blue whiting, all caught from well-managed, sustainable stocks.

Through our commitment to environmental stewardship, global food security, and high-quality seafood production, we provide around 285 million nutritious meals annually to people worldwide. As a proud member of the Cornelis Vrolijk Group, our operations are deeply rooted in sustainability, community support, and responsible fishing practices.

Committed to sustainability and the environment

Environmental stewardship has always been central to the ethos of our company, guided by the principle that “we cannot operate with a broken ocean.” We ensure sustainability through a scientific understanding of fish stocks, monitoring and controlling fishing activity and maintaining ecosystems and ensure we keep innovating.

Over the past 40 years, we have prioritised sustainable fishing practices to minimise our environmental impact. By employing selective fishing methods and focusing on pelagic species, we avoid disturbing the seabed and help preserve marine biodiversity. Over time, we have integrated advanced technologies as they have become available, such as acoustic deterrent devices and other innovative tools, to significantly reduce bycatch and operate in harmony with the ocean’s delicate ecosystems. As a result, our vessels have become some of the most environmentally friendly in the world, setting a benchmark for responsible fishing practices.

As the global population soars from 8 billion to an anticipated 10 billion by 2050, the need for sustainable protein sources has never been greater. Seafood is an affordable, nutritious option with a lower carbon footprint than other proteins. Over our four decades of operating, we have supplied enough fish meals to feed the world population twice.

We continue to actively address the growing global demand for seafood by focusing on pelagic species to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality fish. Through our commitment to maintaining sustainable catch limits, we have contributed significantly to global food security, safeguarding vital resources for future generations and supporting the long-term health of marine ecosystems.

Our fleet

Our fleet has grown and evolved since 1984, adapting to the challenges of a dynamic industry. Today, we’re proud to operate four vessels under the UK flag, with the latest addition to our fleet joining us in 2020. These include Northern Joy, Wiron 5 and Wiron 6, and the Frank Bonefaas.

As we look back on how far we’ve come, we remain excited about the future—continuing to innovate and push boundaries, with a commitment to sustainable practices. Recently, our vessel, Frank Bonefaas became the first “early adopter” to trial Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) as part of a collaborative initiative with the UK government. We look forward to building on this progress by participating in other advancements that not only support the fishing industry but also champion sustainability, ensuring the long-term health of our oceans.

Economic and community impact

Over the last 40 years our contributions have extended far beyond fishing. We have helped the UK economy by supporting sectors such as fishing technology, gear manufacturing, and engineering. But fishing isn’t just a business—it’s a community.

We have strong ties with the port city of Hull and other fishing communities–the city’s rich maritime heritage and fishing culture serve as a foundation for our success. As such, we have played a vital role in supporting local fishing communities by employing skilled fishermen and nurturing the future generation of maritime professionals by instilling essential skills and passion for working at sea.

Since 2021, we’ve proudly partnered with Fleetwood Nautical College, supporting Cadets as they pursue degrees to prepare for future careers as Marine Engineers or Deck Officers. Cadets also have the opportunity to join our vessels in full-time roles upon completing their studies.

In addition, we’ve partnered with Hull Sea Cadets since 2019, contributing to initiatives like the annual Welton Water camping and sailing trip. This program provides young people with valuable hands-on experience, fostering their connection to careers at sea.

Through these ongoing partnerships, we’re committed to equipping young people with practical sea-going experiences. These opportunities help them build essential skills such as teamwork, seamanship, and marine engineering, while also opening pathways to rewarding maritime careers. By investing in the next generation, we’re helping ensure a sustainable future for fisheries and the communities that depend on them.

A bright future for the fishing industry

As we look ahead to the next 40 years, the North Atlantic Fishing Company is optimistic about the future of sustainable fisheries. With advanced knowledge, data-driven decisions, and cutting-edge technology, we’re confident that we can continue to manage fisheries responsibly while feeding millions worldwide. By balancing environmental stewardship, innovation, and community support, this milestone anniversary marks not just a celebration of past achievements but a promise to uphold our values for generations to come.

With 40 years of fishing excellence, North Atlantic has established itself as a leader in combining tradition, sustainability, and innovation. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to protecting the oceans, supporting communities, and delivering high-quality seafood to tables across the globe. Here’s to the next 40 years of sustainable fishing success!

The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has released several updates on pelagic fish stocks and Total Allowable Catches (TACs) for 2025.

Total Allowable Catches (TACs) are regulatory limits set on the quantity of specific fish species that can be caught within a certain time period, primarily used in the UK and European Union’s Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). TACs are established annually, based on scientific advice, to ensure that fishing activities remain sustainable, helping to prevent overfishing and protect marine ecosystems.

TACs are crucial for maintaining fish populations at levels that can produce maximum sustainable yield (MSY), ensuring the long-term viability of both marine biodiversity and fishing industries. They play an essential role in preserving the livelihoods of fishing communities, securing food sources, and adhering to international conservation obligations.

Recommendations for 2025

For 2025 ICES recommends reductions in TACs for most of our target stocks, such as mackerel, and blue whiting. At North Atlantic Fishing Company, we fully support these recommendations, as we recognise the importance of safeguarding fish populations for future generations.

Following the ICES recommendations, the delegations from the European Union, the Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom (coastal states) have reached an agreement on management measures for 2025. The deal sets a TAC of 576,958t for mackerel, 412,383t for North Sea herring, and 1,447,054t for blue whiting. These figures reflect a 22% reduction for herring and mackerel and a 5.4% cut for blue whiting.

The ICES advice will now be weighed alongside other factors to balance scientific recommendations with commercial viability, helping to establish the final TACs, fishing opportunities and management measures for 2025. This approach ensures sustainable and responsible fishing practices.

Importance of nurturing fish stocks

While the total allowable catch for herring, mackerel and blue whiting have been reduced, this step is vital for nurturing the fish stocks while continuing to provide essential protein for human consumption.

Protecting and nurturing fish stocks is fundamental to ensuring the health of marine ecosystems, safeguarding long-term food security and sustaining livelihoods. Overfishing harms businesses and economies, may disrupt ecological balance, and can endanger biodiversity.

By managing fisheries responsibly, we can maintain thriving fish populations, preserve breeding stocks, and meet the growing demand for sustainably sourced seafood.

It is crucial that all fisheries collaborate proactively to protect and manage fish stocks, as the collective action of every nation is essential to preventing overexploitation, ensuring sustainable stock recovery, and maintaining the overall health of shared marine resources.

Feeding the world sustainability

The global population, currently at 8 billion, is projected to rise to 8.5 billion by 2030 and reach 11 billion by 2100, increasing the demand for affordable, high-protein food sources. Sustainably managed fish stocks are vital for meeting this need, providing a low-environmental impact, nutritionally rich food source.

Pelagic fish, in particular, offer significant health benefits, being low in cholesterol and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, riboflavin, iron, and calcium, making them a cost-effective way to enhance diets, especially in developing regions. We remain committed to delivering sustainably sourced pelagic fish to support global nutrition.

Protecting the future of fish stocks

Our focus is on maintaining the delicate balance between meeting the growing demand for nutritious seafood and ensuring the longevity of marine ecosystems. Through responsible sourcing and careful management of fish populations, we aim to safeguard both the availability of this essential food source and the health of the oceans for future generations.

We understand that the resilience of our fish stocks depends entirely on responsible stewardship and adherence to the best available scientific advice. That is why we will only source fish allocated to us via quotas derived from the ICES recommended TACs for each quota species, ensuring that our fishing practices are responsible and sustainable.

For generations, family traditions have guided many into the fishing industry, with exposure often starting early in life, helping build a deep connection to the sea and instilling skills and values passed down through successive generations. However, in recent times, fewer young people are pursuing careers in this field.

For this reason, we proactively support younger generations by offering exposure to seafaring skills, with the hope they develop a lasting interest in the sea and the fishing industry. This year, we sponsored the Hull Sea Cadets’ annual camping and sailing trip to Welton Waters for the fourth consecutive year. We also supported these future mariners’ participation in the Tall Ships Youth Trust sailing challenge.

By providing access to these activities, we’re actively investing in the future of young people, equipping them with valuable skills and experience. These opportunities help them thrive and positively impact the maritime industry.

The Welton Waters experience

This year’s event at Welton Waters brought together 27 Sea Cadets, aged 11 to 17, to hone their sailing and camping skills along the picturesque Humber River. The five-day programme offers a range of activities to challenge and inspire the young cadets.

Participants had the opportunity to develop sailing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, rowing, power boating, and kayaking skills. But these activities not only provide enjoyment; they also help cadets accumulate valuable water hours, contributing to their waterborne qualifications and bolstering future careers in the maritime industry.

Sally Green, Commanding Officer of the Hull Sea Cadets, said the trip allowed some cadets to access things they wouldn’t usually have the opportunity to. “Without North Atlantic’s sponsorship, we couldn’t have 27 cadets here doing what they’re doing and enjoying it. It’s essential to have this kind of interest for the future generations of the industry.”

Lydia Moynihan, a 16-year-old senior cadet in her fourth year at the summer camp, added: “Activities like these are great for young people as they build resilience, help make friends, and look good on a CV. If you enjoy it enough, it can lead to careers in similar fields.”

The annual Welton Waters trip is a great way to cap off the Hull Sea Cadets’ summer, and we’re proud to support them and the wider local community. We hope the initiative inspires future maritime professionals in the Humber region, honours its rich naval heritage and ensures a robust future workforce. As global populations grow, it’s crucial to develop more individuals in seafaring roles, as they will play an increasingly important part in sustainable food production through the fishing industry.

The Tall Ships experience

We also supported a group of cadets embarking on the Tall Ships Youth Trust sailing challenge this August. This eight-day voyage took cadets around the UK, sailing from Portsmouth to Newcastle. Established in 1956, the Trust is a charitable organisation dedicated to developing young people aged 12 to 25, providing them with opportunities to serve as crew members on its ships.

Engaging young people in activities like the Tall Ships Youth Trust Sailing Challenge is incredibly important for their development and well-being. These experiences offer more than just an adventure on the high seas; they provide vital life skills that shape character and build resilience.

Young people learn valuable skills such as teamwork, leadership and problem-solving, which are critical for success in any field. Successfully navigating the challenges of open water boosts self-esteem and creates a profound sense of accomplishment.  Moreover, such programs can spark interest in maritime careers. Whether their future lies in marine biology, naval service, or maritime engineering, experiences like these can lead to rewarding and inspiring career opportunities.

The Tall Ships experience was both demanding and fun for Michael Southall, a 16-year-old senior cadet. “Observing wildlife like seals and jellyfish was a highlight while the trip improved my leadership skills and sparked my interest in pursuing the RYA Yachtmaster course at 18. The experience has opened a new career prospect for me,” he enthused.

Continued support

We remain dedicated to investing in the local community and nurturing young talent. We plan to sponsor these events again next year to continue supporting the Sea Cadets and strengthen our partnership. Through these efforts, we aim to inspire future maritime careers and ignite a passion for the sea in the next generation.

With the world population expected to grow from 7.9 billion today to 8.5 billion by 2030 and 11 billion by 2100, the demand for affordable, high-protein food is only going to rise. We can significantly enhance diets across the world and offer nutrient-rich, low-cholesterol options with pelagic fish.

At North Atlantic, we’re committed to delivering sustainably sourced and cost-effective pelagic fish worldwide. Almost 100% of our catch is for human consumption, with around 90% exported to developing nations outside the EU.

Benefits of pelagic fish consumption

When sourced and managed responsibly, pelagic fish provides high-protein food with a low environmental impact. These fish are rich in super-healthy long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids and are also nutrient-dense, offering essential vitamins and minerals such as riboflavin, vitamin D, iron, and calcium. Remarkably, a 150g portion of pelagic fish can supply 50-60% of an adult’s daily protein requirement, making it an exceptionally nutritious choice for everyday consumption.

Promoting the consumption of pelagic fish can therefore help diversify diets and alleviate malnutrition in regions where other sources of protein are scarce or expensive. The benefits of eating pelagic fish extend well beyond individual health, encompassing economic, environmental, and social advantages crucial for sustaining global populations.

Ensuring fish for all

A report on food security by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) highlights serious concerns about food security and nutrition but notes signs of progress in many subregions.  Although global hunger and food insecurity have stagnated for two years, sustainable fishing remains crucial for global food security, especially with more than three billion people relying on wild-caught and farmed seafood for protein.

Although fish is critical in feeding global populations, adopting, and adhering to sustainable fishing methods is imperative to ensure the longevity and health of both the fisheries and the ecosystems they depend on.

Low carbon emissions

Beyond the significant health benefits, eating pelagic fish offers several other advantages for global populations. The sustainable fishing of pelagic species can support local economies and contribute to food security by providing a reliable and affordable source of protein.

While all food production generates CO2 emissions, wild-caught pelagic fish, when harvested sustainably, have a lower environmental footprint than land-based animal protein sources. They require less feed and water and do not contribute to deforestation or habitat loss, making them a more sustainable choice in the face of climate change and the need for more eco-friendly food production.

Our vessels make fewer, longer trips annually, minimising CO2 emissions through economic engine use, clean marine fuels, and investment in low-impact freezing technology. On-board processing is also highly efficient, allowing our vessels to stay at sea longer and optimise fuel usage while catching quotas cost-effectively. 

Protecting fish stocks

Pelagic vessels have among the lowest bycatch levels in the industry, at less than 1%. At North Atlantic, we fish exclusively for mackerel, horse mackerel, blue whiting, and herring using mid-water (pelagic) nets that never touch the seabed. This ensures our catches are always a single species from a single stock, making our vessels among the most ecologically friendly in the world.

Many fishing operations (including North Atlantic) now participate in scientific data collection, reporting catches, bycatch, and environmental conditions. This data is crucial for informed marine resource management.

Consumer guidance on sustainable fish also helps protect fish stocks. Diverse “blue foods” offer essential nutrients and support marine biodiversity, easing pressure on exploited species. Expanding dietary choices beyond common species to include alternative sustainable seafood can therefore strengthen food security, especially for populations dependent on fisheries affected by climate change and environmental changes.

Sustained food security

By implementing and upholding sustainable fishing methods, the international community can safeguard the enduring health of marine ecosystems, secure a consistent food source, and maintain the livelihoods of millions. This holistic strategy is crucial for maintaining food security in an expanding global population and promoting a sustainable interaction with our planet’s marine resources.

As fishers, the health of the ocean is of the utmost importance. Sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation efforts are crucial to ensure that the sea remains healthy and provides a viable harvest to support food security and livelihoods far into the future.

An often-overlooked aspect of the debate on the management and development of fisheries is that it’s done especially to benefit global populations in terms of food supply, employment, and revenue. Of course, this must be achieved without compromising the future sustainability of any fish stock. Fortunately, the UK fishing industry stands as one of the best-managed and most regulated in the world, with scientific evidence directly influencing decisions in fisheries and marine environment management.

The Wildlife Trusts’ National Marine Week theme this year is “Sea the Connection.” In this blog, we’ll highlight how, as an island nation, we are deeply connected to the sea and why preserving a healthy and flourishing marine environment is essential.

The UK’s connection to the sea

The sea has shaped the UK and how it connects with the rest of the world for many centuries. Our nation’s cultural heritage is rooted deeply in our identity as an island, influencing our history, arts, traditions, and daily life.

Maritime industries enable significant employment and economic activity, particularly for coastal communities. From merchant traffic carrying the everyday goods we rely upon, to offshore energy development that lights our homes, subsea cables that enable global connectivity, marine mineral extraction that provides building materials, and fishing that delivers food—there are many ways we work with the sea.

The UK’s reliance on the sea emphasises the importance of marine conservation and sustainable management practices to ensure that future generations can continue to benefit from it.

Misconceptions of the fishing industry

There are several misconceptions about the fishing industry’s impact on the marine ecosystem. These include the beliefs that pelagic vessels fish in and damage marine protected environments, harm the ecosystem by removing large volumes of pelagic fish and contribute to high CO2 emissions.

However, the truth is that pelagic vessels do not harm seabed habitats, flora, or fauna because they use mid-water trawls, which do not touch the seabed, ensuring minimal environmental impact. These types of vessels are among the world’s most ecologically friendly, targeting single species from well-managed, sustainable stocks.

Our pelagic vessels also only fish where they are permitted to do so.  For each Marine Protected Area (MPA) there are designated species and habitats that are required to be protected.  If our pelagic gear poses any risk to the achievement of the conservation objectives of the MPA, our operations will be restricted or prohibited. Government environmental advisers evaluate all of the human extractive activities, including fishing, within the site to assess the impact. If there is a risk identified, Regulators will be advised to take appropriate action to assure the protection of the marine environment.

In terms of carbon footprint, wild-caught pelagic fish produces the lowest CO2 among animal proteins, as they require no artificial feeding or freshwater supplies. Additionally, both pelagic and demersal trawling are highly energy efficient. Larger vessels, in particular, make fewer and longer trips, thus using less fuel than for shorter, more frequent journeys, and catches can be frozen at sea and packed efficiently for transportation.

The UK’s strict fisheries management regulations, which involve several different authorities and organisations, ensure the safeguarding of fish stocks for future generations. Defra oversees the general governance and policy of UK fisheries, while devolved administrations handle fisheries management. These are the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) in England, Marine Scotland in Scotland, DAERA in Northern Ireland, and the Welsh Government in Wales.

To ensure that fish stocks are not at risk, scientifically determined Total Allowable Catches (TACs) are set each year, meaning fishers can only catch within quota limits and must report catches daily to authorities. Any excess catch requires sourcing additional quota without increasing the overall TAC, as discarding quota-regulated fish is illegal.

More sustainable fishing practices  

In recent decades, the UK has made substantial progress in enhancing sustainable fishing practices to ensure the long-term viability of fish stocks, minimise environmental impact, and support the fishing industry. Efforts have included introducing regulatory frameworks, advancing scientific research initiatives, and international collaboration.

Technological advancements have also contributed to developing advanced solutions to support sustainable fishing practices. Modern 2D and 3D imaging helps fishermen catch the right species and sizes to maintain balanced ecosystems. Specialised nets allow juvenile fish to escape, ensuring they can reach maturity and reproduce to safeguard future fish stocks.  Acoustic and electromagnetic “pingers” are also fitted to our nets deter marine mammals and sharks from approaching the net.

Many fishing operations (including North Atlantic) now participate in scientific data collection, reporting catches, bycatch, and environmental conditions. This data is crucial for informed marine resource management.

Additionally, fishing boats use electronic logbooks to report catches to authorities every 24 hours, ensuring transparency and up-to-date records. CCTV cameras are also deployed to bolster scientific data collection and provide evidence of compliant operations. We actively engage in these practices and use these technologies to support sustainable fishing practices.

A beacon of hope

Sustainable fishing offers hope for thriving marine biodiversity and prospering fishing communities. Embracing eco-conscious practices and protecting fish stocks and oceanic habitats is essential for the fishing industry’s continued viability and the well-being of our seas and oceans. Its role in promoting sustainable practices is, therefore, crucial for maintaining marine ecosystems, ocean health, and global food security.