OUR FLEET

With the single goal of regenerating fish stocks and the marine environment, Pesky’s fleet is made up of boats whose gear has a low impact on the surrounding environment while also creating a low bycatch risk.

Fishing gear diagram

It is for this reason why no two Pesky markets are the same in terms of landings. Unlike the larger boats in the global fleet, many of our vessels are under 10m and are susceptible to the elements. Here’s how the main factors impact what you’re able to buy.

FISH SEASONALITY

British Seafood Calendar

Click on the image to expand

WIND

  • Rough Seas - The wind whips up the sea and can create very dangerous conditions for smaller vessels with the threat of capsizing = Limited fishing on high wind days
  • Damaged Gear - High wind can make it dangerous for both the crew and the fishing gear when boats can move erratically in the water = Limited fishing on high wind daysΒ 
  • Churned Seabed Sediment Β - Certain winds can stir up the seabed and impact visibility, resulting in a change in fish feeding patterns = Unpredictable catch wind days

TIDES

  • Can’t Leave Harbour - On a very heavy low tide, some smaller harbours don’t have enough water to allow boats to get out = Restricted fishing on big tides
  • Can’t Cast Gear - Large tides stop static netters from putting their nets in water as they will break their anchor and drift away = No netted fish on big tides
  • Fish Activity - Certain fish like Wild Bass are more active in large tides while Pollack are more active during small tides = Variable landings throughout the month

WAVE HEIGHT/ SWELLS

  • Fish Quality - With high waves, fish caught with their head in nets will be pulled up and down, bruising the meat around the neck = Risk of low quality meat with large swells
  • Temporary Fish Migration - Certain inshore species move to deeper grounds in very rough conditions = Increased probability of low/zero catch
  • Dangerous Fishing - Even if conditions offshore are calmer, returning in big swell can trap a vessel outside the harbour = Certain boats won’t risk fishing

WHO'S FISHING 'NOW'?

To filter for fishing boats, click on the 'Vessel filters' icon (second from the top in the right menu) and make sure only 'Fishing' vessels are checked.