Faroese fisheries expert warns summer is worst time to fish deep-sea tusk

Summer is the least suitable season for fishing deep-sea tusk on the Faroe Bank, according to a fisheries biologist at the Faroese Marine Research Institute (Havstovnun).

Petur Steingrund told public broadcaster KVF that waiting until autumn, when the fish are fatter, would be more advisable. His comments come as deep-sea tusk is currently sold for 30 krona per kilogram—a price set by political decision to allow vessels to fish the species, including the less abundant Faroe Bank stock, year-round.

Steingrund noted that while the Faroe Bank tusk grows faster in its first three years, its population is in decline, directly affecting market prices. “Biologically, it’s not a good idea to fish for tusk during this season,” he stated, explaining that the species is typically larger on the bank than in shallower coastal waters.

He cautioned that increased fishing pressure would not solve the problem, as the remaining stock would only gain more access to food, potentially accelerating growth at the expense of long-term sustainability.