- Trial explores opportunities in Scotland’s razor clam fishery
A trial to research the economic opportunities and environmental
impacts of electrofishing for razor clams has been extended for a
further 12 months.
The extension aims to strengthen the evidence-base and inform
future decisions about capacity for a sustainable razor clam
fishery in Scottish waters, including developing fisheries
management measures.
Scottish razor clams are a prized delicacy in many parts of the
world, particularly in far eastern markets. Prior to the trial,
some vessels were illegally using electricity to fish for the
species giving rise to concerns over the impact on the marine
environment and health and safety.
Electrofishing harvesting involves inshore fishing vessels
slowing and gently pulling electrodes over the seabed to draw out
razor clams burrowed in shallow sand, which are then collected by
hand.
Conducted by the Scottish Government, the Health and Safety
Executive and Food Standards Scotland, the trial began in 2018
and has now been extended to 31 January 2025. Authorised vessels
taking part in the trial are subject to strict terms and
conditions and exempt from a ban on electrofishing in the EU and
a ban on fishing and landing razor clams in Scotland.
Existing evidence shows that electrofishing has the potential to
produce high quality catch with a lower impact on the marine
environment than alternative methods such as dredging. Previous
studies have suggested that electrofishing does not have an
immediate or short term lethal effect on species exposed to
electricity.
Minister for Energy and the Environment, , said:
“This unique and innovative trial brings together fishers,
scientists, policy-makers and academia to carefully explore the
opportunity of diversifying inshore fishing through technology
innovation.
“Our Blue Economy Vision is to be a global leader in supplying
sustainably sourced and high-quality seafood at home and abroad.
While there is significant potential for positive economic
benefit to coastal communities from a carefully regulated and
managed electro-fishery for razor clams, there are legitimate
concerns over the use of electricity in fishing. We aim to
address this through the remainder of the trial.”
Background
The current market for razor clams is export-focussed, worth £6.1
million in the year ending 31 January 2022 and employs around 100
people. Findings from the trial will be considered carefully
before any decision is made about the future approach to a
commercial razor clam fishery in Scotland.
Participating fishing vessels are subject to strict terms and
conditions, including limits on where fishing can take place, the
quantity of clams that can be landed, the time that can be spent
fishing and the size of clams they can harvest. Remote electronic
monitoring (REM) systems on board participating vessels ensure
compliance and protection of the marine environment. The trial
operates at ten defined sites around the Scottish Coast.
Legislation
