In 2021 there were 4,269 active fishing vessels in the UK. Around 64% of these vessels were under 10 meters in length. There were 6,835 people working on those fishing vessels (Full Time Equivalent jobs).
In 2021 turnover of the UK fishing fleet was £923 million. Operating profit was £240 million.
The UK fishing fleet landed 631 thousand tonnes of fish and shellfish in 2021 in the UK and abroad. The total value of landings in 2021 was £893m, which is a 9% increase from 2020.
In recent years, new alliances have been built between government, fishermen, statutory bodies, conservationists and scientists, all
working together to secure a sustainable future for the seas and fish stocks around the UK.
As these partnerships develop, seafood buyers can help by changing their specifications to support fishermen who make stronger commitments to better conservation practices.
The UK’s fishing industry is already well regulated and all our fishermen are required to operate to strict fisheries management regimes.
Contrary to the impression often given by the media, many of the UK’s domestic fish stocks are in a healthy state – such as Herring
and Langoustine.
Unfortunately, many of our most abundant species are exported, so there is considerable scope for us all to help boost domestic consumption.
NB: There is much more on responsible practices in the seafood industry available on this site.
This film showcases the whole seafood industry from catch to plate; celebrating the many heroes of the seafood industry and the wonderful seafood available in the UK.
The video shows the industry through the eyes of four different vessel owners from different fishing sectors and regions of the UK.
From our YouTube channel.