END OF YEAR MESSAGE FROM SHETLAND FISHERMEN’S ASSOCIATION

There are, however, reasons to hold onto hope. Fishermen are reporting encouraging signs of small fish on the grounds, a reminder that the sea’s ability to renew itself remains strong when managed responsibly. Our fleet continues to land high quality catches that command prices above those of our competitors, and demand for Shetland fish remains robust. These fundamentals matter. They show that despite the noise, despite the pressure, the core strengths of our industry endure.

Yet we cannot ignore the issues that require firm challenge. The proposed economic link for pelagic vessels is not welcomed by our pelagic fishermen, and rightly so. It risks undermining the viability of a sector that has invested heavily, behaved responsibly, and contributed significantly to the Shetland and Scotland economy. This is a fight we must take forward with clarity and conviction. Likewise, access to fishing grounds remains a red line. Whether the threat comes from offshore wind, cables, aquaculture expansion or shifting political priorities, we will continue to defend the space our fleet needs to operate safely and sustainably.

There are also opportunities on the horizon. In 2026, new apprenticeships for young entrants will begin, offering school leavers a structured pathway into a career at sea, and an investment in the next generation of Shetland fishermen. This will give a signal that our industry still has a future worth stepping into.

With Scottish elections approaching, we call on all candidates to recognise the importance of this industry to our islands and to commit to supporting it. Fishermen do not ask for special treatment, only fairness, respect, and policies grounded in reality rather than ideology. The decisions made in the next parliamentary term will shape the future of our fleet for decades.  We need representatives who understand that and who are prepared to stand with us.

The responsibilities of the Shetland Fishermen’s Association continue to grow as external pressures mount, but so too does our determination. We enter 2026 with a strong team and strong resolve. It will be a demanding year, but not an impossible one. With unity, resilience, and a willingness to challenge what must be challenged, we can ensure that Shetland’s fishing industry not only survives but continues to thrive. The sea has sustained our community for generations. With the right support and the right decisions, it will continue to do so for generations to come.