Fish coming back to the Clyde – but still small

John Kinsman

A study by Marine Scotland shows that the white fish biomass – the total weight of white fish species in the Firth – is now twice as great as it was 70 years ago, when fishing methods were simple and intensive trawling had not started.

However, although the weight of fish is now much larger, 72 per cent of it is one species, whiting. Of that species, 85% is smaller than the legal minimum landing size. The report concludes that ‘while not yet a healthy fish population’ there are signs that the Clyde ecosystem can be restored.

Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead said: ‘“What this report indicates is that with careful, collective management it may be possible to improve biodiversity and nurture the Firth back to a more diverse fishery, able to support mature fish stocks that can be sustainably harvested.’ He continued, ‘However there are no quick fixes and that’s why the Scottish Government, alongside other stakeholders, will consider this report carefully.’