SUPPLIES of white fish into the UK remained thin on the ground this week, but markets predict there is hope on the horizon.
They say the bad weather that has plagued fish operations off Iceland and the Faroe Islands is showing signs of easing and normal fishing operations have resumed.
Trawlers are now busy fishing for haddock off the east coast of Iceland and for cod and plaice off the west coast.
Hull's Fishgate market advised merchants yesterday: "Hopefully, we may see an upturn in volume and supply to the UK for the week commencing February 8th and maybe kick the start the year at last."
Although the year is now over four weeks old, markets have had to struggle with low landings which meant that prices for cod and haddock in particular have remained on the high side. Grimsby received just over 3,000 boxes yesterday and trading was brisk because the outlook for the rest of the week is not so bright.
Seafood supplier M&J says in its weekly market report that prices are likely to be "quite strong" for a while yet, but the company adds that it does have decent supplies for the start of the week. The main worry is that the winds could pick up off the Scottish Coast which again could have a dampening effect on landings.
There are some bright sports, however. Norway farmed halibut and turbot will be available all week and while there are no supply issues with farmed salmon, there are reports that the Norwegians have cut back on harvesting which may cause prices to rise. Scottish salmon prices are also climbing, but the company said it was keeping its own price levels the same. There are no problems with tuna and prices should remain stable.
Should fisheries be closed during breeding time to allow stocks to reach more sustainable levels?
